Artist Lizzie Brown displays her art beside the train tracks ahead of Ashland Fourth Fridays.
Downtown Ashland has enjoys a vibrant community of artisans–jewelers, painters, designers, entertainers, chefs, farmers, musicians, and more. May 26 through September 22, 2023, Ashland Fourth Fridays events will celebrate local artisans with sidewalk sales, art exhibits, live music, and outdoor dining. Now in its fourth season, some local artists could hardly wait to return to the Center of the Universe for the monthly celebrations.
“People in Ashland are just wonderful. I met people of all ages and backgrounds,” painter Lizzie Brown recalls from Ashland Fourth Friday’s past. “It made me realize that my work is approachable and accessible for everyone. I’m looking forward to coming back to Ashland Fourth Fridays to meet and connect with more people.”
Matt Windham of Ares Creations and Reclaim, pottery by Marisa Keegan and Monique’s Crepes at Ashland Fourth Fridays.
Connection with community and craft is a goal of Ashland Fourth Friday vendor Matt Windham of Ares Creations and Reclaim too. The locally owned and operated Ashland business repurposes salvaged wood so new life can be created using old-world techniques. “Our ancestors handcrafted everything. They didn’t use screws or nails, so it drove me to save what was left behind and make something people would appreciate,” Matt describes. “What excites me the most is when someone says, ‘Wow! I’ve never seen anything like that.’”
Ashland Fourth Fridays guests can discover original art of many genres–from crochet toys, to stained glass, to custom fashions. But that is not all, they can also shake a leg to live music at the freshly constructed Ashland Town Hall Pavilion or dig into delectable dining.
Food truck favorites like Monique’s Crepes and Cheesaggedon are slated to join Ashland Fourth Fridays during the season, as well as new mouthwatering temptations like authentic Greek food by Hellenic Kouzina Greek Cafe and Native American-owned food truck Hungry Hungry Arrow. Downtown Ashland boasts many outdoor dining options, so visitors can enjoy the fun from their seats.
"Ashland is a charming and unique place to visit, and Ashland Fourth Fridays are a great reminder that there is always something new to see here," said Kitty Barnes, Ashland Fourth Fridays organizer and Chief Operating Officer of Red Vein Escape. "In addition to the artists and musicians who bring their talents to the streets, shops and restaurants get a chance to highlight some of their own creations with extended hours, dinner and drink specials, and lots of fun in-shop."
Creatives who are interested in displaying their craft at Ashland Fourth Fridays are encouraged to submit an application. Downtown Ashland Association accepts applications through August. “The fellow Ashland Fourth Fridays vendors are so helpful and easy going,” says Lizzie. “It’s really fun and lots of people come out.”
Mark your calendar and gather your friends at Ashland Fourth Fridays in Downtown Ashland, Virginia! Visit ashlandfourthfridays.com for event info.