Ashland Train Day is about to heat up—literally! On April 26, from 11 AM to 4 PM, visitors to the 21st annual Ashland Train Day will have the chance to ride in style with PlayRVA’s Firetruck Experience. Stationed on Thompson Street and making its way around Ashland Town Hall, this unique attraction offers an interactive adventure that transforms an ordinary day into an extraordinary experience.
From Touching to Touring: A Hands-On Firetruck Adventure
While the popular Touch-a-Truck attraction at Ashland Train Day lets guests get up close to massive machines, PlayRVA takes the excitement a step further by inviting attendees to climb aboard and experience a firetruck in motion! Taylor Pace, owner of PlayRVA, shares his enthusiasm: “This gives kids a hands-on experience inside the trucks, letting them feel what it’s like on the road! It’s a rare and unique opportunity only we offer.”
But the PlayRVA Firetruck Experience isn’t just about the ride—it’s about the full package. Guests can explore the firetruck, take scenic rides through Ashland Town Hall, enjoy entertainment on two flat-screen TVs, snack on fresh popcorn, marvel at exciting exterior lighting effects, snap countless photos, and, most importantly, create unforgettable memories.
“This really is a fun and unique activity at every event we attend,” says Pace. “We’re proud to offer something that brings so much joy to kids and families.”
A Family Legacy Steams into the Center of the Universe
For Pace, bringing the Firetruck Experience to Ashland Train Day is more than just business—it’s a return to his roots. “I grew up on Center Street, from my days at Liberty Middle School to Patrick Henry High School,” he shares. His deep Ashland ties trace back to his family’s role in the Herald-Progress Newspaper, where his father, Steve, served as General Manager and his aunt and uncle, Jay and Pat Pace, were the owners. “All of my first jobs were there, from working in the bindery department to delivering papers and selling ads. That experience taught me how to work hard and set me on the path to becoming an entrepreneur.”
Igniting Smiles and Making Memories
PlayRVA began as a trackless train company but quickly expanded to include firetrucks. Recognizing an opportunity to offer something truly special, Pace built the only Firetruck Experience in the state. “We’re the only place where you can rent a firetruck to explore and take rides,” he says proudly. “All of our drivers are retired firefighters!”
When asked about his favorite moments, Pace finds it difficult to choose just one. “Honestly, they’re all my favorite. When we’re not at a party or event, just getting to drive the trucks around is so much fun. But at events, seeing families and kids so excited—it’s impossible to pick just one great moment. They’re all fantastic.”
Full Steam Ahead: Why You Should Support Ashland Train Day
PlayRVA’s Firetruck Experience is coming to Ashland Train Day as an in-kind sponsorship, helping to make this beloved, free, family-friendly festival even more unforgettable. Businesses looking to showcase their brand while supporting the community have a golden opportunity to climb aboard as well!
By becoming a sponsor of Ashland Train Day, businesses gain invaluable benefits, including brand exposure to over 20,000 attendees, promotional access to millions of Train Day’s international viewers, a featured news article promoted to more than 30,000 followers, on-screen advertising at Ashland Theatre, complimentary promotional space at the event, and professional photography capturing their sponsorship in action.
For more details on sponsorship opportunities, visit Ashland Train Day Sponsorships.
Don’t Miss the Ride of a Lifetime!
Whether you’re a firetruck fan, a train enthusiast, or just looking for an unforgettable family outing, the PlayRVA Firetruck Experience is a must-do at Ashland Train Day. “I hope people leave with an extra experience to remember and talk about,” says Pace. “Alongside all the other great things they’ll get to see and do on Train Day.”
So mark your calendars, grab your tickets to ride, and get ready for a high-energy, high-impact adventure that will leave you fired up for Ashland Train Day!
