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Get Ready for Poage in the Park A Weekend of Fun, Food, and Festivities Awaits!

Get Ready for Poage in the Park

A Weekend of Fun, Food, and Festivities Awaits!

Sasha Bush

The Ashland Beacon

As the crisp autumn air begins to settle and the leaves transform into a vibrant palette of reds and golds, the excitement for Poage Landing Days is reaching a fever pitch. Scheduled for the third weekend of September, this beloved festival is set to captivate visitors with its unique blend of entertainment, local flavor, and community spirit. This year’s event, now rebranded as “Poage in the Park,” will take place in the picturesque setting of Central Park, promising a fresh and delightful experience for all.

This year marks a significant change for Poage Landing Days, as it transitions from its traditional location to the lush expanses of Central Park. Christy Meade, Festival President, explained the reasoning behind this exciting shift, “We knew early in the year that ongoing construction on Winchester Avenue might not be completed in time for September. Our committee evaluated various options and decided that Central Park would be the best alternative. The decision was timely to ensure that temporary power boxes could be installed and inspected by Kentucky Power.”

The new location offers shaded areas, which were lacking on Winchester Avenue, and provides a more enjoyable experience for festival-goers to explore vendor booths and enjoy meals under the trees.

On Friday, September 20, Poage Landing Days will begin at noon and remain open until 10 p.m. Live music will be provided on Friday evening beginning at 6 p.m. at the Armstrong Stage and will kick off with the Angie Fletcher Band, followed by Barry Frazee.

On Saturday, September 21, the main stage at 21st Street and Central Avenue, will come to life with Opening Ceremonies at 7 p.m., Julie Reeves at 7:15 p.m., and headliner Neal McCoy at 9 p.m. Saturday also brings you the Southern Fried Conefest, a long-standing Poage Landing Days tradition, at 10 a.m. on Ramey Street. That event will continue on Sunday as well. The Armstrong Stage will bring Against the Grain, Brady Ross and Route 23, and the Poage Landing Days Beauty Pageant on Saturday.

On Sunday, head back to the Main Stage to catch House of Grace at 10 a.m. The Armstrong Stage will handle the rest of the day’s talent, which includes Southern Sunday, Bended Knee, Janetta Blevins, and the Greater Huntington Symphony Band. The festival will close at 6 p.m. on Sunday, and the time will come for attendees to head home already making plans to come back next year.

Children will have their own special space in the park, with activities centered around the playgrounds. Free inflatables will be located near the playgrounds, while the Cincinnati Circus Stunt Show and paid children’s amusements will be set up across Chattin Drive on the 17th Street baseball field. The new layout ensures a dynamic and engaging environment for families and children.

One of the festival’s main attractions is its impressive array of food vendors. This year’s lineup features a diverse selection of local culinary talents, offering everything from classic festival favorites to gourmet delights. Whether your taste buds crave savory barbecue, indulgent baked goods, or refreshing beverages, Poage in the Park promises a gastronomic adventure that caters to all appetites.

Poage Landing Days has always been celebrated for its family-friendly focus, and this year is no exception. The festival is packed with activities for children, including interactive games, face painting, and craft stations where little ones can unleash their creativity. Additionally, the festival will showcase a variety of craft vendors and local artisans, providing a wonderful opportunity to explore unique, handmade goods such as jewelry, artwork, home décor, and gifts. Meade emphasized the importance of supporting local businesses, stating, “Supporting our event also supports many in our community by giving local artisans a platform to display and sell their work.”

The magic of Poage Landing Days is brought to life through the dedication of volunteers, organizers, and sponsors. As a 501(c) (3) nonprofit organization, the festival relies on the tireless efforts of its volunteer Board of Directors and committee members, who meet monthly for nine months of the year to ensure the event’s success. The continued support from the City of Ashland and community sponsors is crucial in maintaining and growing the festival each year. “My hope is that the Poage Landing Days Festival continues to grow and provide free entertainment to our community for years to come,” Meade reflected.

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to be part of this year’s Poage Landing Days, now re-imagined as “Poage in the Park.” Scheduled for Sept. 20, 21, and 22, the festival offers an unparalleled chance to celebrate our community’s spirit, enjoy fantastic food and entertainment, and create lasting memories with friends and family. Whether you’re a returning attendee or a first-time visitor, Poage in the Park promises an unforgettable experience. Join in the fun and be part of a cherished tradition that highlights the best of our local community.

Be sure to check out the Ashland Beacon’s special Poage Landing Days special section so you don’t miss out on a moment of fun.

Friday, Sept. 20

12 p.m.- Festival Opens

6 p.m.- Angie Fletcher Band (Armstrong Stage)

7:30 p.m.- livestream Ashland Vs. Russell

8:15 p.m.- Barry Frazee (Armstrong Stage)

10 p.m.- Festival Closes

Saturday, Sept. 21

10 a.m.- Festival Opens

10 a.m.- Southern Fried Conefest (Ramey Street)

noon- Against the Grain (Armstrong Stage)

12:15 p.m.- Cincinnati Circus Stunt Show