Linda Perry Kennedy wins a $100 Ashland Gift Certificate!
Thanks to everyone who entered by posting a photo of their purchase from a local business! Linda’s photo (below) of a bunny drawing from Refunkit was randomly selected as the winner.
Photo Contest
Enter to win a $100 Ashland Gift Certificate!
Shop Local — Make a purchase at one of the area’s fine shops or restaurants! See a list of businesses’ offers below.
Take a photo — Show off your purchase! You’ll be helping us spread the word about Ashland’s many options to shop local safely.
Post the photo — Include the hashtag #SurfAshland when posting your photo on Facebook or Instagram (make sure the privacy setting is “Public”).
Repeat — You are invited to post many photos! Each post will be considered a new entry. Unlimited entries apply.
A lucky winner will be chosen at random at noon on Thursday, April 23!
Branding Ashland
Earlier this month, the Town of Ashland adopted a new logo design, as part of its effort to brand the community as a destination for tourists and local visitors. The design is showcased and explained in this video:
The design is intended to be part of a tourism marketing campaign led by the Town of Ashland government and coordinated with all local stakeholders, including businesses, community groups, and individuals.
Adopting the design is only the first step in a successful brand rollout. Next steps usually include: Meetings within the community to discuss how we want to use the brand; updating use of the brand in print and online; lastly, a public rollout to the broader tourism community.
Downtown Ashland Association has been an eager participant in the Town’s public input processes to date and will continue to collaborate on creating a positive public image for our community. Town residents and business owners can offer comments on the graphics or advice for the rollout by emailing Assistant Town Manager Matt Reynal.
5 Tips for Easter Weekend
Enjoy the holiday weekend in Downtown Ashland! Your participation will strengthen our community and your patronage will support local businesses.
1. SHOP LOCAL
Fill your basket with toys and gifts from local shops!
For kids, Tiny Tim’s Trains & Toys offers puzzles and games for all ages, curbside service or shipping available.
For adults, Hickory Creek Antiques is a treasure trove of collectibles and gifts. Shop via Facebook and Instagram, then call to order.
2. EAT LOCAL
Order a fancy dinner from one of the local restaurants offering specials.
Try Iron Horse Restaurant, The Henry Clay Inn, or Jake’s Place. No need to slave all day for a holiday meal, let the experts do the work for you!
3. BICYCLE
Ashland is well-known as a hub for cyclists. Whether you’re novice or advanced, enjoy the scenery and exercise!
Try out one of our recommended bike routes through Downtown Ashland.
4. SIGHTSEE
Stroll the gardens of Randolph-Macon College abloom with Spring’s beauty.
The College is closed, but the grounds are open! Take a leisurely walk around the Fountain Plaza and relax in the rocking chairs at Brock Commons.
5. MAKE YOUR MARK
Join the Ashland Chalk Walk!
Hanover Arts & Activities Center is offering FREE chalk for artists of all ages! Pick-up from the Center's front porch at your convenience. Chalk the sidewalk of your choice and post a picture on social media with the hashtag #ashlandchalkwalk!
Supporting Small Business
Photo courtesy of Thrill of the Hunt
Downtown Ashland Association contributes to the town’s vitality by deploying our time, funding, and voice on behalf of the community. In this uncertain time, it is more important than ever to provide local businesses with entrepreneurial resources. We have collected a list of links, information, and workshops to address businesses’ major concerns. The page will be updated regularly as the situation develops.
If you have questions or wish to schedule a confidential consultation, contact Executive Director Maggie Longest at director@ashlandvirginia.com.