2026 Rain Beat on Main Street Continues Unique Tradition
Ashland Soil and Water is getting geared up to celebrate the 7th annual Rain Beat on Main Street this summer! An event created to showcase community artists' creativity while promoting stormwater education. Decorated rain barrels are displayed at three locations around Ashland.
The scheduled stops are:
June 15 to 22 in Loudonville’s Central Park
June 22 to 28 at Freer Field with Balloonfest
June 29 to July 10 at Ashland’s Corner Park
Rain Barrels:
The purpose of these rain barrels is to collect rainwater to then use for watering gardens or lawns, conserving water, and reducing stormwater runoff that could contribute to flooding. The rain barrels can contribute to lowering the cost of your water bill by using the water from the barrels instead of using municipal water sources.
Rain barrels used during the Rain Beat on Main Street event can hold up to 65 gallons and are urned shaped. They feature a spout at the bottom that makes it easy to use to water your garden or indoor plants.
This year, Rain Beat on Main Street is going to feature 10 to 12 artists. In previous years, we have had many different types of art displayed, from monkeys, sea animals, to Ashland-specific designs. We are still looking for artists to join this year. We are welcoming past artists as well as always looking for new artists to participate!
Please check our website for the artist application (www.ashlandswcd.com) or reach out to Water Quality Specialist Zoey Dudte (zoeydudte@ashlandswcd.com) to fill out an application!
Sponsorship Opportunities:
We are still seeking 10-12 sponsors for our event. Sponsorships are $150. Sponsors will be advertised on social media platforms as well as on signage when rain barrels are transported around Ashland County. To be a secured artist, you maycapture your own $150 sponsor for your rain barrel. If you are interested in being a sponsor, please fill out an application on our website (www.ashlandswcd.com) or contact Zoey Dudte for an application (419-281-7645).
Ashland SWCD is excited for this year's 7th annual Rain Beat on Main Street and is hoping to make a big splash in stormwater education. Rain barrels will then be up for auction online. All of the money that is raised will help go towards stormwater education through numerous events like our monthly conservation chats, education programs, and outreach programs.
If you are interested in being an artist or a sponsor, please check our website at www.ashlandswcd.com or contact Water Quality Specialist Zoey Dudte at zoeydudte@ashlandswcd or 419-281-7645.