The streets of Downtown Ashland were filled with people on Dec. 7, for Ashland’s Annual Holiday Stroll and Tree Lighting.

We saw our biggest turnout yet with close to 1,000 people in attendance between both events. With 13 shopping locations and 33 pop-up vendors, we saw smiling faces and overflowing shopping bags all day long!  

Local businesses and pop-up shops were grateful for the economic boost, some reported record highs in sales. These events help support our local restaurants too and it was nice to hear that those as well had record numbers.  

Thank you to all those who spent their dollars in Ashland, it does have a huge impact and helps these businesses thrive.

The Corner Spot was full of families from start to finish. Kids were able to write letter to Santa with Mrs. Claus, then the big man himself made an appearance to take pictures and chat with the kids. 

The Boy Scouts mended the fire pit throughout the day so that we could all roast marshmallows and stay warm! They had a booth themselves, finishing up their wreath sales for the year. 

We were also happy to have Ashland’s Sha’arei Shalom set up at The Corner Spot with Hanukah games, coloring, and activities, this was a popular favorite with the kids. 

The Tree Lighting was nothing short of magical! Every inch of Montenegro Square was filled with residents ready to welcome in the holiday spirit. With hot chocolate from Connect Church, cookies from the Ashland Lions and live Christmas music from Hit the Bus Band, it was a picturesque, small town Christmas spectacular! The lights were so bright, Santa found his way into Montenegro Square with help from Ashland Police and Fire. AFD’s Sparky was so excited to be a part of the night too, taking photos with everyone on the antique fire truck. 

This day would not have been possible without the help of our selfless volunteers, who truly kept the show running throughout the day – thank you. Another thank you to our Ashland Police officers who kept everyone in attendance safe while the streets were busy. We can’t believe the day has come and gone, but we can’t wait to do it all again next year. Happy Holidays, Ashland!

Special kudos to the Police and Fire Departments for going above and beyond to drive Santa and his happy elf through town waving and playing Christmas tunes too!  This was something that happened during the pandemic and has become a fan favorite and possibly a staple event for some time to come.