Started in 2014, Danville’s Ladies Night Out has turned into an annual event that celebrates the small businesses, and community, that makes the corridor between Main Street and Market Street so special.
We caught up with Main-Market and Beyond (Danville business association) members Ashley Phillips and Amy McDonald to hear how planning was going this year. These Danville natives share a bit about what they love about their community, what makes this event so special and share their must-stops when you visit.
CVB: How long have you been involved with Main-Market and Beyond?
Amy: Main, Market & Beyond started in 2019, and I have been a part of the organization since then.
Ashley: I began my involvement with Main-Market & Beyond in 2020 as a business representative interested in seeing what the non-profit was about and how I might be able to help. Over the years, my involvement has grown and I currently serve as the President of the board.
CVB: How long have you been a Danville resident?
Amy: I was a Danville resident for about 3 years in the 90’s, was a proud graduate of Danville High School (Go Devils!) and have lived my life of 60 years in this beautiful area.
Ashley: All my life.
CVB: Do you own a business in Danville? Or work for a business in Danville?
Ashley: My family owns Didinger & Son Crop Service in Danville. We are an agricultural retailer and have been serving farmers all across Ohio for over 75 years. We sell fertilizer, seeds, chemicals, pond treatments, and lawn and garden supplies.
CVB: When did Ladies Night start in Danville?
Amy: Danville’s Ladies Night started in 2014. We’re so happy to see how it's grown over the years with more entertainment and fun ideas. This night means a lot to our community and small businesses.
CVB: Is Ladies Night just a night for the gals?
Amy: We encourage the whole family to join the fun. Our shops and vendors usually have great games and entertainment for the kids. Plus, who doesn’t like live music!?
Ashley: Not at all! While we do promote shopping deals and fun-theme giveaways that appeal to the women; the entertainment and gathering makes for a fun family night out for everyone.
CVB: What is your favorite part of Ladies Night?
Amy: My favorite part is celebrating the ladies with an evening spent with the whole community united. Seeing generations of families that have grown up here coming back together for the event.
Ashley: I love all of the creative displays and interactive games our businesses come up with each and every year. Additionally, it's always nice to see our community members out and about enjoying the spring weather after the winter days of being cooped up.
CVB: Main-Market and Beyond also hosts ‘Chicken Days’ every June.What can people expect when they visit during this event?
Amy: Chicken Days is June 14th, held at Memorial Park. It’s a unique event celebrating our rural charm and local agricultural history, in collaboration with our Amish community. When you come to Chicken Days bring your appetite because the Amish Chicken BBQ dinner is delicious!
CVB: Now, for one of the most important questions…if a visitor had one day to spend in Danville, and the surrounding area, what are must-stops and must-sees?
Amy: My perfect day in the Danville area would consist of a sunrise hike at Honey Run Highlands Park, taking in the peaceful sounds and awesome views at Honey Run Waterfall. Coffee is a must from the Blonde Robin, hitting up the Amish Auction to see all the animals, an afternoon kayaking the Kokosing River or grabbing a bike rental at Danville Outdoors and following the trail to Bridge of Dreams, in Brinkhaven.
Ashley: My first stop would be Blonde Robin for a delicious coffee, and while you wait for your coffee you can browse the boutique for unique home goods and clothes. Next, visitors should walk or ride East on Mohican Valley Trail, where they will come across the Bridge of Dreams. Heading west on the Kokosing Gap Trail, visitors can walk or ride through Howard, Gambier and into Mount Vernon. If they’re in Danville for lunch, I recommend Jackie's Sandwich Shop, Spin City Pizza, or the Hangout. On your way out of town, they should swing by Don Leo’s to pick up some local grown flowers, produce and more.
CVB: Right!? Not to mention, Don Leo’s famous $4 sandwiches!? All the meat, cheese and toppings you could want right at the deli counter; it’s the perfect lunch after a long day hiking or biking! Alright well now we’re hungry. Last question; where is your favorite place to grab a sweet treat in Danville?
Amy: Definitely Rabers Country Bakery (12864 Millersburg Rd). You have to try a fresh, homemade cream stick!
Ashley: Love the different pies that the Hangout and Jackie's Sandwich Shop offer. And of course, nothing beats the Amish baked goods at Rabers, Don Leo’s or Weaver’s (free pretzels every Wednesday!)
A big thank you to our partners at Main-Market and Beyond and Ashley and Amy for chatting with us ahead of their first big event of the season. Don’t miss Ladies Night Out, Friday May 9th, 5PM -9PM, along Main Street. And don’t forget while you are planning your summer trip, experience Chicken Days, June 14th at Memorial Park in Danville.
See you on Main Street!
