How to Give the Gift of Growth to Downtown Ashland this Giving Tuesday

Downtown Ashland Association is on a mission to make Ashland’s future vibrant! This Giving Tuesday, we're not just asking for support; we're inviting you to become a VIP (Very Important Partner) and spread the joy of giving throughout our community.

🎉 BECOME A VIP MEMBER - YOUR TICKET TO COMMUNITY CHEER!

Support our mission and unwrap the exclusive perks of being a Downtown Ashland Association VIP:

🎟️ Two tickets to the fabulous annual Toast of Downtown reception

🛍️ A delightful coupon packet from your favorite Downtown Ashland businesses

🕰️ Early bird ticket access to Downtown Ashland can't-miss events

❤️ An exclusive I ♥ Ashland vinyl sticker pack

📧 Receive the Get Centered monthly email newsletter to stay in the loop

We're not just organizers, fundraisers, or small-town cheerleaders—we're a vibrant mix of artists, farmers, government leaders, business owners, parents, and grandparents. Together, we're the architects of a brighter future, fueled by the power of community.

Your VIP Membership is the key to sustaining Downtown Ashland's quirky charm, all year round.

🌈 WHAT DOES YOUR DONATION DO?

Your donation helps us to welcome residents and visitors to the magic of Downtown Ashland with free community events: Ashland Train Day, Ashland Fourth Fridays, Ashland Halloween, and the enchanting Light Up the Tracks.

📬 Keeps our community connected with our email newsletter Get Centered, Facebook, Instagram, and AshlandVirginia.com

💼 Amplifies local businesses with stellar services, creative marketing, and powerful promotion. 

Be an integral part of our community's journey towards a brighter, more vibrant tomorrow! Join Downtown Ashland Association in our mission when you become a VIP Member.

Holiday Decor Destinations in Ashland, Virginia

Downtown Ashland is a winter wonderland of cute and quirky charm, making it the perfect spot to kick off your holly-jolly shopping spree. Let this guide light the way on your hunt for classy seasonal decor and one-of-a-kind gifts in the Center of the Universe.

Caravati’s Architectural Salvage
Caravati’s spreads joy to customers through a festive array of house restoration, remodeling, and repair services. Step into their merry showroom, adorned with architectural treasures, rejuvenated wares, and seasonal delights crafted by local artisans.

Center of the Yarniverse
In the Yarniverse, find festive fibers and patterns that dance like sugarplums, kits that sparkle with creativity, and accessories that jingle with joy. It's a cozy wonderland for knitting and crocheting enthusiasts, complete with classes straight from Santa's workshop!

Changing Reins
From apparel that's the mane attraction to accessories that hoof it with flair, Changing Reins has home décor and vintage gems that sleigh in style. Jingle all the way to the equestrian destination where every item is a holiday delight!

Hickory Creek Antiques
Hickory Creek is the jolliest antique mall in Metro Richmond. With a snowstorm of vintage treasures and collectibles, their glittering emporium, featuring over 40 merry vendors, ensures you'll unwrap affordable and unique finds for every season.

ReFunkIt
ReFunkIt's designs are the merry masterpieces of the season, bringing together a festive collection of artwork, decor, and gifts crafted by over 80 artists from Virginia and beyond.

Thrill of the Hunt
Get ready for a holly-jolly home makeover with Thrill of the Hunt! Their one-of-a-kind furniture, gifts, and home decor are like festive ornaments for your living space. And here's a ho-ho-holiday treat: Starting December 15th, for every $100 gift card purchase, unwrap a complimentary $10 gift card! It's the gift-giving season in full swing!

The Shop at 112
At The Shop at 112, it's a seasonal sleigh ride of treasures! Their ever-changing collection of goodies is like unwrapping presents with each new season. Catch the holiday spirit on Saturdays as they open their doors to spread joy and unveil the latest festive finds!

Live Caroling Concerts all Season Long

Cozy up to classic caroling every Saturday in the Center of the Universe!

From 5-7 PM, choirs walk along the illuminated Light Up the Tracks mile-long light display singing wholesome holiday tunes. You’re invited to join the singers or watch from the cozy comfort of heated outdoor patio and dining areas. Scroll to shine a spotlight on how you can make Ashland’s free Caroling Concerts your new cherished Christmas tradition.

The Carolers

Saturday, November 25 - Roger Reynolds

Saturday, December 2 - Shiloh Baptist Church

Saturday, December 9 -  Patrick Henry YMCA Singers

Saturday, December 16 - Patrick Henry High School Choir

Saturday, December 23 - John Alley

The Route
5 PM - Ashland Town Hall
5:30 PM- Ashland Branch Library Plaza
6 PM - Changing Reins
6:30 PM - Henry Clay Inn
7 PM - Ashland Town Hall

Listen Live from
Ashland Meat Company at Cross Brothers
The Caboose Market & Cafe
The Henry Clay Inn
The Iron Horse Restaurant
Origin Beer Lab

Light Up the Tracks Events Guide

For the next six weeks, Ashland's holiday spirit shines bright with festive foods, events, and over ten thousand lights. We call the celebration Light Up the Tracks!

Here’s a sneak peek, and you can find the full calendar of events here.

Illuminated Events
Nov 18 - Light Up the Tracks Celebration with Downtown Ashland Association
Nov 18 - Illuminated Costume Contest at the Light Up the Tracks Celebration
Nov 19 - Olde Time Holiday Parade with the Ashland Kiwanis Club
Nov 19 - Thanksgiving Floral Arranging Workshop at the Hanover Arts and Activities Center
Dec 2 - Holly Jolly Holiday Party at the Ashland Theatre
Dec 3 - Deck the Halls at Pine Grove Farm
Dec 9 - Jolly Jaunt Bar Crawl & Concert With Origin Beer Lab
Dec 31 - Light the Way to 2024 at the Hanover Arts and Activites Center

Sleighing Shops
Dec 2 - Ashland Christmas Market
Dec 2 - England Street “Christmas Market” at Thrill of the Hunt
Nov 25 - Small Business Saturday in Downtown Ashland
Mon - Sat - Ashland Feed Store
Tues - Sat - Caravati's Architectural Salvage
Tues - Sun - Center of the Yarniverse
Tues - Sat - Changing Reins
Mon - Sun - Fin & Feather Pet Center
Mon - Sun - Hickory Creek Antiques
Tues - Sun - ReFunkIt
Tues - Sat - Thrill of the Hunt
Mon - Sun - Tiny Tim's Toys & Trains
Sat - The Shop at 112
Tues - Sat - Wagner Jewellers

Glow Shows
Every Saturday! - Caroling in Downtown Ashland
Weds - Sun - Fearfully Festive Escape Room at RED VEIN Escape
Fri - Sat - “Ghosts of Christmas Past” with Ashland Haunted History Tours
Fri - Sat - Live Concerts at Huddle Up Sports Bar
Fri - Sun - Ashland Museum & the Red Caboose Tours
Dec 1 - The Barter Players’ “Frosty the Snowman” at Ashland Theatre
Dec 1 - 3 - LUX Holiday Spectacular at Randolph-Macon College
Dec 3 - Richmond Symphony at Randolph-Macon College
Dec 7 - Choral and Instrumental Winter Concert with Randolph-Macon College
Dec 8 - 17 - “The Polar Express” at the Ashland Theatre
Dec 10 - Holiday Concert at Duncan Memorial United Methodist Church
Dec 10 - “The Grinch” at the Ashland Theatre
Dec 15 - “National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation” at the Ashland Theatre
Dec 21 - “It’s a Wonderful Life” at the Ashland Theatre

Festive Foods
Nov 23 - Thanksgiving Dinner at the Henry Clay Inn
Fridays - Wine Tasting at the Caboose Market and Cafe
Thursday to Monday - Dining at the Henry Clay Inn
Mon - Sat - Andy's Restaurant & Lounge
Mon - Sun - Ashland Meat Company at Cross Brothers
Wed - Sat - Ashland Pot Pie Company
Mon - Sun - Ban Thai
Mon - Sat - The Caboose Market & Cafe
Mon - Sun - Casa Herradura Family Mexican Restaurant
Mon - Sun - The Depot
Tues - Sat - Homemades by Suzanne
Wed - Sat - Huddle Up Sports Bar
Mon - Sun - Iron Horse Restaurant
Mon - Sun - Jake's Place
Tues - Sun - Origin Beer Lab
Mon - Sun - Sports Page Bar & Grill
Tues - Sat - Sugar Fix Bakery
Mon - Sun - SweetFrog
Mon - Sun - Trackside Kitchen and Wine

How to Support Downtown Ashland on Small Business Saturday

Small Business Saturday is just around the corner, and there's no better time to highlight the significant impact of supporting local businesses, especially in Downtown Ashland. This year, we encourage you not only to shop and dine locally but to consider making a donation to bolster the efforts of the Downtown Ashland Association.

Enhancing Public Spaces & Historic Preservation

Stride through the heart of Ashland's downtown with ease, thanks to the collaborative efforts of Downtown Ashland Association, the Town of Ashland, and urban planners. We invest in walkability, enhancing everything from street lights to planters and expanding sidewalks, ensuring that our downtown is not just welcoming but effortlessly navigable.

Preserving the character is at the forefront of our mission. The Downtown Ashland Association actively supports initiatives that acknowledge our unique history and work hand in hand with partners like the Ashland Museum and Hanover County Black Heritage Society.

Promoting Downtown & Increasing Visitation
We believe in creating vibrant, dynamic spaces that attract visitors and celebrate the essence of our historic downtown. Signature events such as Ashland Train Day and Light Up the Tracks, along with community-building initiatives like Untold Stories, Ashland Fourth Fridays, Ashland Halloween, and more, are orchestrated by the Downtown Ashland Association. These events draw both residents and visitors into our downtown.

Stay informed about these exciting events by following us on Facebook and Instagram, and subscribe to "Get Centered," our email newsletter.

Supporting Business Growth
For small businesses to thrive, communication and resources are key. Downtown Ashland Association plays a pivotal role by providing workshops, resources, and regular communication on issues that may impact local businesses, fostering a business-friendly environment.

"Eat & Shop Local" is not just a catchphrase for us—it's a mission. We actively promote patronage of Ashland businesses through our events and marketing initiatives. Our partnerships with Market Ashland Partnership and Hanover Chamber of Commerce further amplify the impact of supporting local businesses.

This Small Business Saturday, consider making a difference beyond your purchases. Your donation to Downtown Ashland Association will contribute directly to the growth and sustainability of our local economy, ensuring that Ashland's downtown remains a thriving hub of community, culture, and commerce.