PRESS RELEASE, October 14, 2022 — For the 14th consecutive year, the Ashland Monster Dash invites ghosts, ghouls, super heroes and monsters to run in support of public education. This year’s event is being offered both virtually and in-person, with the main event taking place on Saturday, October 29th in Lithia Park, Ashland.
New this year, an Activity Village near the start and finish line will host free family-fun crafts, exhibits, live music, entertainment, contests, and auction items from 9am to 1pm. Attendees will also have the option to purchase a $10 Monster Bites Meal Card, which takes them on a delicious adventure through downtown Ashland to collect five thematic tasty treats, including Witch Finger Sandwiches, Butterbeer, Pretzel Wands and more
The Monster Dash is a collaboration between the Ashland Kiwanis Club and the Ashland Schools Foundation, with Lithia 4 Kids as the presenting sponsor. Organizers aim to raise tens of thousands of dollars for classroom grants in Ashland public schools. These grants can be used for classroom projects, materials and supplies, and specialized support.
Ashland Schools Foundation Executive Director Erica Thompson, says she hopes this year’s Monster Dash will give families and community members an opportunity to reconnect with holiday traditions and with one another again.
“It feels great to be planning a full-scale in-person outdoor event that more closely resembles previous years, plus even more ways for the community to enjoy the day,” says Thompson. “In addition to the races, there will be a costume contest, silent auction, live music and a free, family-friendly activity village featuring games, crafts, animals, aerial arts and potion making. We’re looking forward to a full day of opportunities for all families to have fun together in Lithia Park.”
The in-person race event features 1-mile, 5k and 10k distances, and will be offering prizes for top finishers. Virtual runners will also have the opportunity to win gift certificates by running anytime October 22-31st and uploading their times to the race website. Runners and walkers of all speeds and ages are welcome to enter costume contests for chances to win from this year’s prize pool.
Monster Dash sponsors have also stepped up to the plate to support local education and provide participants with prizes, giveaways and online auction items. The presenting sponsor, Lithia 4 Kids, joins nearly 100 local businesses who are giving their time, products and sponsorship dollars for a successful 2022 fundraising event.
For more information, and to register for the 2022 Ashland Monster Dash, visit www.ashlandmonsterdash.com.