Record-Breaking Turnout at Ashland Main Street’s Annual Costume Capers
Joe Lyons •
October 30, 2024
Record-Breaking Turnout at Ashland Main Street’s Annual Costume Capers
ASHLAND, OHIO — A lively crowd of goblins, ghouls, and costumed families took over Ashland’s Main Street for the annual Costume Capers event, marking the largest turnout yet for the beloved Halloween celebration. Local businesses and community leaders came out in force, with storefronts decorated, candy at the ready, and costumes ranging from spooky to silly as they welcomed visitors of all ages to this family-friendly affair.
With classic characters, pirates, and creatures galore, the scene buzzed with excitement. Captain Jack Sparrow was spotted weaving his way down Main Street, bottle in hand, much to the amusement of children dressed as their own favorite heroes and monsters. Local businesses lined the sidewalks to hand out candy, while costumed kids and adults added to the festive atmosphere, with more ghosts and goblins than could be counted.
Ashland’s own Mayor Matt Miller and his wife, State Representative Melanie Miller, got in on the fun, joining community groups like the Ashland Post of the Ohio Highway Patrol, the Ashland Public Library, and even the Ashland Fire Department to hand out treats. Chief of the Ashland Police Division Dave Lay and his wife also joined in, adding to the sense of camaraderie as city officials and citizens mingled in the spirit of the season. The Ashland University students brought extra excitement, leading candy-fueled games like basketball shootouts and arm-wrestling contests, while The Salvation Army Kroc Community Center kept smiles wide with its candy-filled festivities.
Not far away on South Street, Substance Church hosted its popular Fall Fest, offering free hot dogs and other treats to passersby, while the Ashland Board of Realtors’ haunted house provided a thrilling walk-through experience for families.
Ashland Main Street Executive Director Sandra Hedlund Tunnell celebrated the record-breaking success, noting, “We were thrilled to see so many families downtown participating in Costume Capers this year. From businesses to community groups, everyone brought their best to make this a memorable night. It’s exciting to see how much this event has grown year after year.”
Mayor Matt Miller was equally pleased, sharing his pride in the community’s spirit: “It’s a tremendous joy to see such a diverse crowd filling Main Street, celebrating and connecting with one another. This event truly embodies the warmth and vibrancy of Ashland.”
State Representative Melanie Miller added her own reflections, sharing, “It was a beautiful evening to see so many families taking part in Ashland’s tradition of Costume Capers. Thanks to our Main Street business owners and community organizations, we created a memorable experience for countless children and families.”
Adding to the festive atmosphere, the mayor credited Ashland’s famed fall decorations and the “Pumpkin People” for drawing record numbers and positive community buzz. “Ashland is on the rise,” he remarked with a smile.
Costume Capers was just the beginning of Halloween fun for Ashland, as the city-wide Trick-or-Treat event will kick off tomorrow from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., rain or shine. As the community reflects on the success of this year’s Costume Capers, it’s clear that Ashland is building a legacy of family-friendly celebrations for all to enjoy.
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