All aboard: Annual Train Day set for April 29

CONTRIBUTED REPORT

ASHLAND – Ashland Train Day, the beloved street festival and railroad extravaganza, will return on April 29. This familyfriendly event, presented by Trackside Grill, invites everyone to explore historic Downtown Ashland. You will find freight and passenger trains, toucha-truck, model trains, railroad history, live music, kiddie rides, festival food, dance music and gift shopping.

“We invite you to Ashland Train Day with the whole fam - ily!” said Maggie Longest, executive director of Downtown Ashland Association. “It’s a joy to showcase our town’s railroad attractions and local businesses with this free event.”

More than 12 fully-loaded CSX freight trains and Amtrak passenger trains pass through the center of the event. The Kid Zone offers a world of fun with a bouncy house, obstacle course and games. The Touch-a-Truck thrills gear heads of all ages with a display of heavy equipment, a fire truck and an ambulance, dump trucks and tractors. Two kiddie train rides invite families to tour the festivities. All aboard!

Model trains of every size and scale will be on display plus vintage railroad equipment and a red caboose. The event brings Virginia’s railroad history to life with two museums, three storytellers and a 16-stop scavenger hunt. Railfans of all ages will enjoy Ashland Train Day!

“Ashland is proud to host Train Day and welcome visitors from across our region and around the world to celebrate with us,” said Ashland Mayor Steve Trivett. “Come see why we consider Ashland the Center of the Universe!” s ubmitted by d owntown a shland a ssociation, a community nonprofit organization that works toward a strong and vibrant future for a shland.

Mark your calendar and gather your friends for Ashland Train Day on April 29! In the meantime, visit ashlandtrainday.com for event info.