What was your favorite part of 2023 in Downtown Ashland? Attending free family-friendly events? Shopping at locally owned stores and eateries? Or simply basking in the everyday picturesque beauty of our historic train town? Downtown Ashland Association’s 2023 highlight has been watching the Center of the Universe's vibrance grow daily.
Exciting Events
Downtown Ashland Association is behind some of your favorite free family-friendly fun. Community-building events like Ashland Halloween and Ashland Fourth Fridays brought neighbors together while signature events like Ashland Train Day and Light Up the Tracks entertained locals and visitors alike - attracting over 30,000 attendees downtown.
Marketing Initiatives
We take cheerleading for the Center of the Universe very seriously. We highlight town happenings, feature local favorites. Our comprehensive outreach on online platforms, TV, radio, and news has engaged over 6 million viewers in this year alone, ensuring Ashland stays at the forefront of customers’ minds. You can stay centered in the Center of the Universe when you follow our Facebook, Instagram, and subscribe to our Get Centered newsletter.
Historic Preservation
Teaming up with Ashland Museum and the Hanover County Black Heritage Society we honor Ashland's unique history and preserve downtown's distinctive charm. Together, we hosted an oral history event, Untold Stories: Black & White Perspectives Growing Up in Ashland/Hanover, in February 2023 and recognized downtown investments with Art Mckinney Historic Preservation award to Caravatis and the You've Been Noticed Award for RED VEIN Escape.
Business Support
In 2023, Downtown Ashland Association prioritized enhancing economic development and community involvement. Offering resources, workshops, and aid to existing and emerging businesses, we secured a $175,000 grant from the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development. Starting February 2024, a portion of the grant will fund entrepreneurship initiatives, supporting small businesses in Ashland and Hanover County.
Year-Round Dedication
Downtown Ashland Association is dedicated to building a stronger future for everyone in Ashland. You can support another year of marketing initiatives, special events, business engagement, and historic preservation in our community when you make a tax-deductible donation to Downtown Ashland Association.