Unwrapping Sweet Surprises in the Center of the Universe
This February, downtown Ashland is spinning its own golden tale with the launch of the Golden Taste of Ashland, a delicious milk chocolate bar with a twist straight out of a storybook. Hidden inside five of these delectable treats are coveted Golden Tickets, offering lucky winners extraordinary prizes from Ashland’s most beloved businesses.
Like a scene from Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, the Golden Taste of Ashland is more than a chocolate bar—it’s a passport to a world of delicious destinations and brilliant businesses in the heart of historic downtown Ashland, affectionately known as the Center of the Universe.
“If you want to view paradise, simply look around Ashland,” says Downtown Ashland Association’s Director of Operations Lou Keeton. “The Golden Taste of Ashland captures the whimsy and wonder of our town while giving folks a literal taste of the exceptional businesses that make Ashland shine.”
Every bar purchased supports the Downtown Ashland Association’s non-profit mission to amp up Ashland from the Center of the Universe and out of this world! Bars will be available while supplies last at participating local businesses:
- The Caboose Market & Cafe
- Caravati’s Architectural Salvage
- Changing Reins
- Fin & Feather Pet Center
- refunkit
- 110 Thompson Street
- Thrill of the Hunt
- Classic Coffee, Tea, and Books
Golden Ticket Prizes
Each Golden Ticket unlocks a treasure trove of prizes, from artisan meals to family-friendly fun. Among the prizes are:
- Free farm-to-table dining at Caboose Market & Cafe
- A custom-crafted cocktail experience at Cask & Stave
- A $50 shopping spree at Tiny Tim’s Trains & Toys
- Gourmet dishes from IL Forno Bar & Grill
- Hearty homemade meals from Homemades by Suzanne
- Concert tickets and beverages at Andy’s Restaurant & Lounge and Huddle Up Sports Bar
Wonka on the Big Screen
To sweeten the deal, Downtown Ashland invites everyone to a special screening of Wonka at the Ashland Theatre on Wednesday, February 12, at 6:30 PM. Golden Ticket holders can exchange their prize-winning bars for a free bag of popcorn to enjoy during the show.
Sweet Thanks to Sponsors
The Golden Taste of Ashland wouldn’t be possible without the support of our generous sponsors: Minuteman Press of Ashland, Ashland Dance Academy, and the Downtown Ashland Association. Proceeds from the event will help Downtown Ashland Association continue its mission to create a vibrant and thriving community.
Get Your Golden Taste of Ashland Bar
Don’t miss your chance to experience Ashland’s golden magic. Treat yourself, support local businesses, and maybe—just maybe—find your very own Golden Ticket. Learn more at www.ashlandvirginia.com/taste
About Downtown Ashland Association
Downtown Ashland Association is a community non-profit organization that works toward a strong and vibrant future for Ashland, Virginia. Through marketing initiatives, special events, business engagement, historic preservation, and more, Downtown Ashland Association contributes to the town’s vitality by deploying our time, funding, and voice on behalf of the community.
