Everything Ashland Half Marathon & 5K

Looking for the perfect escape to small-town Virginia? Look no further than the Ashland Half Marathon & 5K! Nestled in the charming town of Ashland, known fondly as "The Center of the Universe," this event offers the perfect blend of historic beauty, vibrant community, and exhilarating racing.

Experience the Race

Whether you’re lacing up for the half marathon or the 5K, each course takes you on a scenic journey through Ashland’s picturesque streets, past historic homes, and even alongside a passing train. It’s a race where every step brings you closer to the heart of this colorful town.

• Hydration and Nutrition
  With bottle refill stations featuring Diamond Springs water and sports drinks at miles 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, and 12, plus energy gels, you'll stay fueled and hydrated throughout the race. Remember, the Ashland Half Marathon is a cupless event, so bring your own hydration system!

• Comfort and Saftey
  Port-o-johns are conveniently located at the Start/Finish area and near water stops, ensuring comfort. Plus, top-notch medical support will be on hand to keep everyone safe.

• Post-Race Celebration
  After crossing the finish line, enjoy a well-deserved celebration with pre-packaged food and drinks.

Schedule of Events

• Friday, August 23

  • 3:00 – 6:00 p.m.: Packet pick-up at the Richmond Road Runners Club Office (2219 Tomlynn St, Richmond, VA 23230

• Saturday, August 24

  • 5:45 – 6:30 a.m. Packet pick-up at the Start/Finish area (corner of North Center Street and Henry Clay Road)  

  • 6:30 a.m.: Ashland Half Marathon begins  

  • 7:05 a.m.: Ashland 5K begins  

  • 10:00 a.m.: Courses close

    Don’t forget! The half marathon course will reopen as the last participant passes each checkpoint.
    

Stick Around for the Fun!

After you’ve crossed the finish line, don’t rush off! Ashland has a host of activities to keep the good times rolling:

• Ashland Farmers Market
  Starting at 9 AM, the Ashland Farmers Market displays a selection of everything from fresh produce to local honey, explore the market while enjoying a concert by the Windbags. All products are grown, baked, or made within a 30-mile radius, offering a true taste of local flavor.

• Delicious Dining

  • At 9 AM - 12 PM Bravo Bakeshop gets a sweet start to the day popping up with their breakfast pastries at Caravatis Architectural Salvage.

  • Ashland's farm-to-fork restaurants open by 11 AM. Whether you’re in the mood for fine dining, sports bar fare, Mexican cuisine, or Italian dishes, there’s something to satisfy every palate.

• Unique Shopping
  Browse downtown stores for one-of-a-kind finds, from home decor and art to crafts and train memorabilia.

• Arts and Entertainment
  Enjoy escape rooms, haunted history tours, museums, and even free live concerts. The Ashland Theatre and public art installations, including the Secretariat Racing Into History monument and America’s longest railroad mural, are must-sees.

So, lace up those running shoes and head to Ashland for a race experience like no other. The Ashland Half Marathon & 5K promises not just a run, but a day of fun and community spirit in the heart of small-town Virginia. All aboard for a race you won’t want to miss!

Office Space Available in Downtown Ashland

Dream big and envision your business thriving in the heart of downtown Ashland! Our historic mainstreet is a destination for visitors and locals alike. Now is your chance to make your mark in the legendary 112 Thompson building, once the proud home of the acclaimed Herald Progress. With its soaring ceilings, ample natural light flooding through expansive windows, and convenient parking, this space is more than just a location – it's an opportunity waiting to be seized.

Dive into the details below and take the first step toward realizing your entrepreneurial dreams. Reach out to 112heraldprogress@gmail.com to turn your vision into reality!

Available 7/1

112 Thompson Street, Ashland Va 23005

2nd Floor offices (Avail 7/1)

B1. 241sf $513 $2.13 (+125 util) 

B4. 264 $562 $2.13 (+125 util)

• Offices consist of one large room, tall ceilings, lots of natural light, overlooking the Town Green. 

• Shared entrance via center front door and stairs. 

• Shared hall bathroom. 

• Dedicated heating/air for each suite. 

Studio, 1st Floor side entrance (Avail 8/1)

D1. 445sf 17 x 26  = $1032.85 (+125 util)

• One large room, tall ceilings, lots of natural light, with skylight. 

• Shared entrance via side door. 

• Shared hall bathroom. 

• Dedicated heating/air. 

IL Forno Brings the Taste of Italy to Ashland

Ashland has a new culinary gem, and it's called IL Forno Bar & Grill. Officially opened on July 16, 2024 in Ashland Town Center, this restaurant is the creation of Giuseppe Giambanco, affectionately known as "G," and his wife, Nadia. Rooted in a rich family tradition and inspired by Giuseppe’s childhood memories of his father’s bustling kitchen, IL Forno promises a dining experience like no other.

Growing up, Giuseppe was immersed in the world of Italian cuisine, learning the ropes from his father, a renowned restaurateur since 1976. "My dad's kitchen was my playground," Giuseppe fondly recalls. "Those early lessons in traditional Italian cooking have shaped my approach to food today." Now, Giuseppe and Nadia bring these cherished recipes to life at IL Forno, blending tradition with modern flair to offer what they proudly describe as a "Taste of Italy & A World of Flavor."

But what inspired Giuseppe to open IL Forno in Ashland? "First and foremost, Ashland has an incredibly supportive community," Giuseppe explains. "The people here have a genuine appreciation for local businesses and a vibrant spirit of togetherness. This supportive atmosphere is essential for any new venture, especially a restaurant that thrives on repeat customers and word-of-mouth recommendations." He continues, "Moreover, Ashland's dining scene doesn't have anything quite like IL Forno. Our restaurant offers a unique blend of traditional and innovative culinary experiences, centered around authentic, brick oven gourmet pizzas, pastas, steak, and seafood, all made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients."

At IL Forno, every dish is crafted with care, ensuring that each bite is a testament to Giuseppe’s dedication to quality and flavor. The menu boasts a variety of mouth-watering options, including the Steak Bruschetta, Crab Portobello Shrimp, Shrimp & Lobster Linguini, The Goat Pizza, and the Surf & Turf Burger. These dishes are not only delicious but also embody the essence of Giuseppe's culinary journey.

For those looking to unwind, IL Forno offers fantastic Happy Hour specials from Tuesday to Friday, 3:00-6:00 PM, with $2.00 off all cocktails, wine, and beer. Additionally, there’s a generous 10% discount for Randolph Macon students and first responders. Giuseppe is especially excited about their loyalty program, designed to reward repeat customers for their patronage.

So, what makes IL Forno truly special? "We aren't your typical Italian restaurant," Giuseppe proudly states. "We offer a variety of different entrees that you can't get anywhere else close to Ashland! We have a beautiful, full, huge bar, and we make 90% of everything fresh in-house. There's nothing like our business in this town." This commitment to freshness and uniqueness sets IL Forno apart, making it a must-visit destination for food lovers.

Looking ahead, Giuseppe and Nadia have big dreams for IL Forno. "We want IL Forno to be a staple in this community and support the town of Ashland," Giuseppe shares. "We envision our restaurant as a place where all the locals come in and make our restaurant their home. We are very family-oriented, and our home is your home!"

IL Forno Bar & Grill invites you to pull up a seat and become part of their family. Experience the flavors they’ve been perfecting since 1976 and savor the warm, welcoming atmosphere that Giuseppe and Nadia have lovingly created. Welcome to IL Forno—where every meal is a celebration of tradition, innovation, and community.

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!

Ashland Swag Contest

Downtown Ashland Association is calling on creatives to design swag that celebrates the Center of the Universe. Submit your design to the Ashland Swag Contest, and your art could be showcased on apparel by TSI Promotionals just in time for the holiday season. The winner will be awarded a custom item of their choice, and your design will be available to purchase online. Buy in person during the Light Up the Tracks Celebration on November 23.

This is your chance to proudly represent downtown Ashland with style! From shirts and sweaters to hats —your creativity could light up our town!

Entry requirements

• Design must be graphic

• Design can use up to three colors

• Design must reference Ashland

• Design must be uploaded as a high-resolution file

• Square or circle designs are recommended

• Deadline to upload your design is Monday, October 7

Resources:

Need inspiration? Learn more of Ashland’s history and keep up with history in the making with these links below.

• Ashland Museum

• Hanover County Black History Society

• Ashland Haunted History Tours

• Downtown Ashland Association