Annual Events
For a small rural community, the area in and around Ashton always has something going on. Depending on the time of the year, you will find locals and visitors alike participating in fun-filled activities as they join in the celebration of various annual events.
In February of each year, since 1917, sled dogs and their owners descend on the small community to participate in the annual Ashton Dog Derby. Spectators and participants alike enjoy dog sled races, celebrity races, junior dog sled races, weight pulls and various other activities. The miscellaneous activities, as well as the start and the finish of the dog sled races, take place downtown! Winter fun for everyone, regardless of your age! Find out more at www.americandogderby.org
With the arrival of spring and the Easter season, the local community puts on their annual Easter Egg Hunt. With additional activities for the entire family, Easter is a celebration of the coming of spring.
No small town in America would be complete without the annual Fourth of July Celebration. Come join the fun at the Fourth of July parade, participate in the games and browse the vendor booths in the City Park. And don't forget the fireworks that night.
In August, the town is filled with running enthusiasts - both participants and spectators - who "run" to Ashton for the annual Mesa Falls Marathon. The population of this rural community nearly doubles in size during this annual event! Visit the marathon's official website at www.mesafallsmarathon.com
As the trees begin to turn color and the mountain air becomes a bit crisper, the locals celebrate the end of the harvest season with the Annual Harvest Festival. A harvest dinner, raffle and entertainment are just a part of the fun! Depending on the conditions, a real live old west cattle train might roll straight through Main Street.
The Holiday Spirit is alive and well in Ashton. The beginning of December, the local residents dust off their holiday decorations and the City puts up their holiday decorations. When in town during the first part of December, plan to celebrate the season with the annual Spirit of Christmas Celebration. Be there for the lighting of the tree and the arrival of Santa Claus. Warm your hands around a steaming cup of hot chocolate while you celebrate the beginning of the holidays with family and/or friends - or new friends you have made in town!
