Ashland Fourth Fridays Rain Plan: The Party Rolls On—Rain or Shine!

As Hurricane Helen looms, threatening to rain on our parade, Ashland’s spirit is far too strong to be dampened! Our Ashland Fourth Fridays celebration is still on, thanks to the generous support of local venues. Should the weather take a stormy turn, we’re moving the fun indoors to the Hanover Arts and Activities Center, Studio 54, and Slipped Disc. No matter what, this Friday, September 27, will be full of art, music, food, and pride!

🎶 Singing in the Rain (Indoors!)

The highly anticipated Ashland Song Contest will shift into the cozy confines of Slipped Disc, where Free Jambalaya will record the performances live. Since space is limited for in-person viewing, we’re excited to announce that Downtown Ashland Association will stream the event on Instagram and Facebook stories (@AshlandVirginia). Grab your umbrella, check your Wi-Fi, and tune in to enjoy these local talents as they serenade us with their best tunes.

🌈 TransJam: A Rainbow Indoors

Rain or shine, we’re celebrating Virginia Pride in all its colorful glory! TransJam Events, a trans-led organization dedicated to fun, inclusive events, will move their vendors indoors at 110 Thompson and the much-talked-about Studio 54. Expect to find a vibrant mix of arts, crafts, homemade jams, pastries, original art, and tarot readings, all under one roof.

Whether it’s drizzling or pouring, let your true colors shine! Dress in your brightest rainbow attire and show your pride as we come together to create a dazzling display of unity and joy. Who knows? Maybe our vivid energy will chase away the clouds!

📚 Food and Fun at Hanover Arts

The fun continues indoors at the Hanover Arts and Activities Center, where food and craft vendors will bring their offerings, and Free to Read will host a children’s book giveaway. There’s something for everyone—from face painting to a delicious array of treats from local vendors. The festivities begin at 5 PM, kicking off with an incredible performance by the Ashland Dance Academy, featuring a dynamic mix of ballet, hip-hop, and musical theatre.

And if you’re looking to keep the groove going, don’t miss The Sweet Potatoes, an amazing jazz quartet known for soulful covers, original tunes, and spontaneous jams that’ll have you dancing in no time. Rain won’t slow this crew down!

🍽️ Food Trucks and Local Fare

For those craving a little more bite to their Friday fun, Monique’s Crepes and Bikini Panini food trucks will still be parked outside Ashland Dance Academy and Ashland Town Hall, serving up delicious sweet, and savory delights. And if that’s not enough, TransJam will be bringing their food truck as well!

👻 Spooky Indoor Fun

The immersive games by RED VEIN Escape will also move indoors, offering a thrilling challenge, while the ever-popular Ashland Haunted History Tours delve into our town’s eerie past, rain or not.

🛍️ Late-Night Shopping

Local shops and restaurants will stay open late, offering farm-to-fork feasts and curated art, gifts, and housewares. No need to rush home! Rain or shine, there will be plenty to explore and enjoy.

⚠️ Keep an Eye on the Weather

While we hope the storm passes and allows us to party outside, we’ll make the official call after 1 PM on Friday, September 27. Stay tuned to Downtown Ashland Association’s Facebook, Instagram, or AshlandFourthFridays.com for updates on whether we’re sticking with the sunny day plan or shifting to our rainy day backup.

Let’s make this Fourth Friday one to remember—whether under the stars or under a roof!

September Fourth Fridays Guide

Get ready for an extraordinary evening in historic downtown Ashland! The final Ashland Fourth Fridays of the summer season is upon us, and this year’s celebration is extra special. Join us on September 27, from 5-8 PM, for an event that not only highlights our community’s spirit but also marks a key celebration of Virginia Pride—a spectacular month-long tribute to the LGBTQ community across the state.

A Night of Dynamic Entertainment

The festivities kick off at 5 PM with an impressive lineup of performances by the Ashland Dance Academy at the Ashland Town Hall Pavilion. From the elegance of ballet to the energy of hip-hop and the flair of musical theatre, these talented dancers will bring the stage to life.

Following the dance performances, enjoy a free concert featuring the Ashland Song Contest winner Ginny Ray, who will grace us with her award-winning song. The celebration continues with special performances from other song contest finalists, showcasing their original Center of the Universe-themed creations.

And don’t miss The Sweet Potatoes, a fearless jazz quartet known for their soulful takes on classic covers, innovative originals, and spontaneous jams. With vocal scats, vibrant violin riffs, and a dynamic rhythm section, they’ll have you grooving all night long.

Delicious Bites and Unique Finds

As you enjoy the music and performances, explore an array of vendors around Ashland Town Hall and 110 Thompson Street. TransJam Events, a trans-led service dedicated to organizing fun, inclusive, and engaging local events, will be bringing you a diverse range of vendors offering everything from homemade jams and pastries to original art and tarot readings. 

Treat yourself to sweet and savory crepes from Moniques Crepes or savor Mediterranean-inspired pressed sandwiches from Bikini Panini. Capture a memorable photo with a special guest at 110 Thompson Street—previous visitors have included Bluey, Princess Belle, and Queen Elsa. And don’t forget to grab some free popcorn and cotton candy from Ashland Dance Academy!

Show Your True Colors

In celebration of Virginia Pride, we encourage everyone to let their true colors shine. Dress in your brightest rainbow attire and show your pride as we come together to create a colorful, welcoming, and inclusive atmosphere. Whether you’re waving rainbow flags or sporting colorful accessories, let’s make this event a vivid display of unity and joy.

Art, Entertainment, and Community Spirit

Discover more artistic wonders with KandiMan’s original soft sculptures in front of Changing Reins, and browse Immagine LLC’s art outside Ashland Meat Company. Don’t miss Free to Read’s book giveaway outside the Ashland Branch Library. Engage in immersive games with RED VEIN Escape or delve into Ashland’s darker history with the Ashland Haunted History Tours.

Local restaurants and shops will stay open late, offering delicious farm-to-fork feasts and showcasing curated art and housewares, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Join the Celebration!

This final Ashland Fourth Fridays of the summer season is not just a community event; it's a celebration of inclusivity, pride, and local spirit. Bring your friends, family, and neighbors to experience a night of vibrant entertainment, diverse food, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Let’s celebrate our community, embrace our true colors, and make this a night to remember. See you in downtown Ashland!

August Ashland Fourth Fridays Guide

Looking for the perfect way to start your weekend? Look no further than Ashland Fourth Fridays! On August 23, from 5 to 8 PM, downtown Ashland transforms into a bustling hub of free entertainment, shopping, and community fun. Get ready to dive into the weekend with excitement and joy, as we've got an array of activities lined up that will make your Friday evening one to remember.

Shop 'Til You Drop at Ashland's Unique Stores

Why not kick off your weekend with some late-night shopping? The Ashland Museum is your first stop, offering fascinating exhibitions and Secretariat-themed merchandise that captures the town’s rich history. If you're looking for local art and crafts, head over to RefunkIt for unique home, office, and wardrobe items, plus cool gifts you won’t find anywhere else. Celebrating a decade of joy, make sure you gallop to Tiny Tims Trains and Toys for state-of-the-art model trains, must-have toys for all ages, and Breyer Horse Painting!

Don’t miss The Shop at 112, open exclusively for Fourth Fridays, where you can find curated home decor, paint selections, mixers, and Ashland-themed merchandise. RichmondReallySews sells handmade crafts inside 110 Thompson as a fundraiser for their upcoming Frocktails Fashion Show, while Paint Me a Perfect World offers unique jewelry and oddities outside RED VEIN Escape. At Ashland Tattoo Company, discover a variety of items for your home and wardrobe from various vendors. And the award-winning Free to Read booth outside the Ashland Branch Library is back, offering free books suitable for youth and young adult readers – take as many as you can carry!

Engaging Entertainment to Light Up Your Friday Night

The evening kicks off with the highly anticipated announcement of the Ashland Song Contest winner. The lucky winner will not only perform their Ashland-themed song live at September’s Ashland Fourth Fridays but also grace the Light Up the Tracks Celebration and be available for streaming on major music platforms. Don't miss this chance to witness local talent shine!

At the Ashland Town Hall Pavilion, enjoy a double feature: the Ashland Dance Academy will showcase their newest dance routines, followed by a free Nashville-style concert by Kari Smith of Rhythm Ranch. For those seeking a bit of adventure, RED VEIN Escape offers immersive escape room experiences that are sure to thrill.

For a touch of celebrity glamour, 110 Thompson hosts a special guest for photo ops – past guests have included favorites like Princess Belle, Bluey, and Queen Elsa. Plus, they’ll be handing out free treats like popcorn and cotton candy. And for a dash of local lore, join the Ashland Haunted History Tours as they celebrate five years of spine-chilling stories with tours around town.

Savor the Flavors of Ashland

Ashland’s farm-to-fork cuisine is staying open late to satisfy your cravings. Indulge in Farmview Creamery’s delicious soft serve at Ashland Town Hall, and grab a perfect cup of coffee or tea from Classic Coffee and Tea at 110 Thompson. Bravo Bake Company sets up their perfect pastries outside of Changing Reins - just in front of outdoor dining and picnic areas along Railroad Avenue.

Join Us for a Fantastic Fourth Friday!

Make this Friday a night to remember by joining us at Ashland Fourth Fridays on August 23. With a fantastic lineup of free entertainment, unique shopping experiences, and delicious food, it’s the perfect way to start your weekend on a high note. See you there, and let's kick off the weekend with a bang!

Kick Off Your Weekend at Ashland Fourth Fridays!

Ready to jazz up your Friday evening? Ashland's Fourth Fridays are back on Friday, July 26, and we’ve got a night packed with family-friendly fun, food, and fantastic music! Here’s the scoop on what’s happening around town:

Groovin' Tunes and Dance Moves
The Ham Biscuits are serving up a hearty helping of New Orleans-style jazz, soul, and blues at the Ashland Town Hall Pavilion. The concert is free, so bring your lawn chairs and your dancing shoes!

At 5 PM, the Ashland Dance Academy will dazzle us with their adorable dance numbers on the Town Hall Pavilion Stage. Stick around afterward for pictures with Bluey and free blue cotton candy! Inside 110 Thompson, glam up with free fairy hair extensions.

Delicious Bites and Cool Treats
Indulge your sweet tooth at the Farmview Creamery soft serve truck on the Town Hall Lawn. For those in need of a caffeine fix, Classic Coffee and Tea’s truck will be parked outside Ashland Dance Academy.

Art, Tattoos, and More!
Check out the original Ashland-inspired artwork sold by Immagine LLC outside of Ashland Meat Company. Feeling adventurous? Ashland Tattoo Company will have vendors set up outside with some cool gear. The award-winning Free to Read program is back outside the Ashland Branch Library giving away as many free books as you can carry.

Spooky Adventures
RED VEIN Escape is hosting vendors and games, adding an extra thrill to your evening. Plus, Ashland Haunted History Tours is celebrating five years of ghostly tales! Use the code BOODAY24 when booking online to get 20% off your tour through July 27.

Late-Night Local Flavor
Beloved Ashland spots stay open late and keep the good times rolling:

Calling All Songwriters!
Got a tune in your heart inspired by Ashland? Enter the Ashland Song Contest! The winner will perform at Ashland Fourth Fridays on August 23, win a recording session with Free Jambalaya, streaming on major platforms, a $100 Town of Ashland gift certificate, original cover art, and a spot at the Light Up the Tracks Celebration on November 23. The deadline is Sunday, August 18.

So come on down, bring the family, and let’s make this Friday one for the books. See you there, neighbors!

Strike a Chord in the Ashland Song Contest

Calling all musicians, songwriters, and melody-makers! It’s time to tune up your creative strings and add your voice to the Ashland songbook. This is your golden ticket to make some noise inspired by the legendary Center of the Universe. Whether you’re a seasoned performer or a bedroom balladeer, this contest is your stage to shine.

The Ashland Song Contest is more than just a competition—it’s a celebration of creativity, history, and local talent. We’re looking for songs that sing the praises of Ashland and weave its rich history into captivating melodies. And the rewards? Oh, they’re music to your ears!

Inside Free Jambalaya studios in downtown Ashland, Virginia.

Imagine kicking off your musical journey with a professional recording session at the renowned Free Jambalaya studio. This top-notch facility has been a launchpad for numerous artists across the U.S., offering everything from audio engineering and video production to live streaming and web development. It's the perfect place to bring your song to life with expert guidance and state-of-the-art equipment.

But that’s just the beginning. Picture yourself performing live at Ashland Fourth Fridays on Friday, September 27. This vibrant event attracts hundreds of guests to the heart of Ashland, offering an unparalleled opportunity to showcase your talent to a large and enthusiastic audience only Ashland’s neighborly enthusiasm could generate.

Your song won’t just echo through Ashland’s streets—it will reach listeners far and wide. Thanks to Free Jambalaya’s music label, your winning track will be streamed on major platforms, giving your music the global stage it deserves. Additionally, your song will receive a special spotlight with an original cover art designed by an award-winning local artist, ensuring it stands out in the digital music landscape.

The Town of Ashland celebrates your rock star status with a $100 gift certificate good to use throughout downtown Ashland. You can get the full-star treatment with a new style at Salon Valentino, sparkle at Tompkins Jewelers, and feast at The Caboose Market and Cafe - just to name a few!

The Light Up the Tracks Celebration, 2023

The excitement doesn’t stop there. You’ll also have the honor of performing at the Light Up the Tracks Celebration on Saturday, November 23. This magical event transforms downtown Ashland with dazzling lights and festive cheer, drawing an even larger crowd of thousands to celebrate the holiday season with music and merriment.

And for the ultimate encore, your song will be featured on the Barry Farmer Morning Show with Sharon Lizzy. This popular syndicated radio show, based in Richmond, VA, reaches a diverse audience across the nation. Your music will air alongside engaging content and clean conversations, connecting you with new fans and industry professionals alike.

To enter, simply submit a recording of your original song by Sunday, August 18, 2024. We’re looking for family-friendly tunes that showcase your unique sound and spirit while celebrating Ashland’s vibrant heritage.

The Ashland Museum

Need some inspiration? Dive into Ashland’s storied past and present with these resources:
Ashland Museum
Hanover County Black History Society
Ashland Haunted History Tours
Downtown Ashland Association

This contest aims to amplify Ashland’s history and celebrate our local artists. We hope these tunes will become the earworms that remind listeners why Ashland is truly the Center of the Universe. And remember, you don’t need to be an Ashland resident to join the chorus—anyone inspired by our historic town can participate.

So, what are you waiting for? Pluck those strings, warm up those vocal cords, and get ready to make your mark. Submit your song by Sunday, August 18 2024, and help compose the Ashland songbook.