Downtown Dayton Partnership

Live Music from Marianne Kesler
2024-06-25 19:00 - 21:00 (America/Detroit) | RiverScape MetroPark, 237 E Monument Ave, Dayton, OH, 45402, United States
Part of Tuesday Nights in the Park series
Live Music from Marianne Kesler
7:00pm – 9:00pm
AGE: All ages | FREE
Join us at RiverScape on the second and fourth Tuesday of the month from June-October for live music, food, drinks and fun! Come support local musicians, try some delicious food from the Cafe, and challenge your friends to some giant lawn games. As part of the Downtown Dayton DORA, the RiverScape Cafe will also be offering a variety of cocktails, wine, beer and more for those 21 and over. Marianne Kesler, local musician, performs amazing acoustic covers ranging from pop, rock and more. You can catch Marianne on June 25th and July 30th at RiverScape from 7 to 9 PM. Admission is free! Weather Dependent.

Nature Adventures Family Program
2024-06-26 14:30 - 15:30 | Dayton Metro Library – Main Library, 215 E. Third Street, Dayton, OH, 45402
Wednesdays, 2:30-3:30 pm, Main Library, Children’s Creativity Space: Participate in arts and crafts, activities, and experiments that focus on the diversity of the natural world. Every session has a different theme.

June 5: Camping
June 12: Gardening with The Ohio State University Extension Office
June 26: Get up close with encounters of Brukner Nature Center animals.
July 10: Nature scavenger hunt
July 17: Meet local author Christina Dendy who will share her book The Wall and the Wild and lead a garden themed art project.
July 31: Summer weather

Diversity Film Series: My Name Is Pauli Murray
2024-06-26 15:00 | Sinclair College, 444 W. Third St., Dayton, OH
FREE AND OPEN TO THE PUBLIC
Join us for a discussion and screening of the 2021 documentary directed by Julie Cohen and Betsy West.
Fifteen years before Rosa Parks refuses to give up her bus seat, Pauli Murray fights for social justice. Overlooked by history, Pauli Murray was a legal trailblazer whose ideas influenced RBG’s fight for gender equality and Thurgood Marshall’s civil rights arguments. This is a portrait of her impact as a non-binary Black luminary: lawyer, activist, poet, and priest who transformed our world.
https://sinclaircc.wufoo.com/forms/zy6janc1qto78c/

Skeleton Dust presents Morgan Garrett, Elite Terrorism Modulus, Developer
2024-06-26 19:00 - 21:00 | Skeleton Dust Records, 133 E. Third St., Dayton, OH, 45402
Skeleton Dust is excited to present Orange Milk artist MORGAN GARRETT for a live performance in the shop on Wednesday, June 26th 2024.
Local support from Orange Milk label partners ELITE TERRORISM MODULUS, along with Dayton-based noise artist DEVELOPER.

Show begins at 7pm. $10 at the door.

Kayak Rentals at RiverScape with Taiter’s Kayak Solutions
2024-06-27 16:00 - 20:00, 2024-07-05 16:00 - 20:00 | RiverScape MetroPark, 237 E Monument Ave, Dayton, OH, 45402, United States
Part of RiverScape Kayak Rentals series
Kayak Rentals at RiverScape with Taiter’s Kayak Solutions
4:00pm – 8:00pm
AGE: 14 and up | $12.00
Paddle under the fountains with Taiter’s Kayak Solutions all summer long at RiverScape MetroPark! Regular walk-up rental hours will take place Tuesdays from 2-6pm and Thursdays from 4-8pm, June-October. Launch from under the Riverside Bridge along the Great Miami Recreational Trail. The cost to participate is $12 per person per hour. Taiter’s Kayak Solutions staff will provide visitors with brief instructions prior to entering the water, which will include a safety tutorial, and help visitors get into their vessels. All visitors will be required to wear a properly fitted life jacket. Swimming is prohibited in the Great Miami River, but visitors should come prepared to get wet. Those renting will not be permitted to go through the RiverScape River Run whitewater feature. No lifeguards are on duty, and paddling is at all visitors’ own risk. All visitors must sign a waiver to participate. Visit Facebook.com/TaitersKayakSolutions for more information. Weather Dependent.

Chapel Hart
2024-06-27 19:00 | Levitt Pavilion Dayton, 134 S. Main St., Dayton, OH, 45402
Lights, cameras, microphones, a prayer & HERE THEY GO! Danica and Devynn Hart along with their cousin Trea Swindle, make up Chapel Hart and have proven they are truly a force to be reckoned with. These ladies have found a way to gift wrap their Mississippi roots & Louisiana spunk and share it with listeners around the world.
Witness the evolution of this band who went from singing together as children in Hart’s Chapel, to a world class group whose colorful and contagious energy has flourished into a full live band experience that fills venues at home and around the country. Chapel Hart has an amazing ability to tug on your heartstrings with a tender yet powerful ballad, then have you pumping your fist in unison to the pulse of hard-hitting rock and roll. The band accentuates the three vocalists, who embody the sweet and southern sound of country with the soulful undertones noting their gospel roots. The cohesiveness of the band has not gone unnoticed as they have garnered thousands of fans from all over the world and have received hundreds of thousands of views online of their performances.

Celtic Night featuring Father Son and Friends
2024-06-27 19:00 - 21:00 | RiverScape MetroPark, 237 E Monument Ave, Dayton, OH, 45402, United States
Dust off those kilts and come down for great Celtic folk and Americana music from local band, Father Son and Friends! While they will definitely get you off your feet, we recommend bringing lawn chairs, as seating is limited. The RiverScape Cafe will have a variety of beer, wine and mixed drinks available for purchase for those 21 and over. Regular snacks and refreshments will also be available. Admission is free!

Father Son and Friends
2024-06-27 19:00 - 21:00 | RiverScape MetroPark, 237 E Monument Ave, Dayton, OH, 45402, United States
Part of RiverScape Summer Music series
Father Son and Friends
7:00pm – 9:00pm
AGE: All ages | FREE
Dust off those kilts and come down for great Celtic folk and Americana music from local band, Father Son and Friends! While they will definitely get you off your feet, we recommend bringing lawn chairs, as seating is limited. The RiverScape Cafe will have a variety of beer, wine and mixed drinks available for purchase for those 21 and over. Regular snacks and refreshments will also be available. Admission is FREE. The RiverScape Summer Music Series is sponsored by The Jack W. & Sally D. Eichelberger Foundation and Enterprise Roofing. Weather Dependent.

Juice Journey-One Juice a Day!
2024-06-28 11:30 - 12:30 | 2nd Street Market, 600 E. Second St., Dayton, OH, 45402, USA
Join Donna Wilson, owner of Choice Juice Boxx and she discusses the healthy added benefits of juicing once a day. Demonstration and samples available.

Pop-Up Show: Stories
2024-06-28 12:00 - 17:00 | Dayton Society of Artists, 48 High Street, Dayton, OH, 45402, United States
The Dayton Society of Artists is excited to welcome We Care Arts to our gallery for a special pop-up show! Join us on June 28th and 29th from 12 PM to 5 PM for Stories, an inspiring art show that highlights the unique experiences and creative journeys of the talented artists from We Care Arts.
This exhibition offers a glimpse into the personal narratives and artistic expressions of the artists, showcasing their diverse perspectives and incredible talents. Come and support these artists, explore their works, and immerse yourself in the powerful stories told through their art. Don’t miss this opportunity to connect with the local art community and be part of a meaningful event.

DML Pride!
2024-06-28 18:30 - 21:00 | Dayton Metro Library – Main Library, 215 E. Third Street, Dayton, OH, 45402
DML Pride!, Friday, June 28, 6:30-9 pm, Main Library, Eichelberger Forum and Atrium: Celebrate the 55th anniversary of Stonewall by watching the movie Pride (Rated R, 2014). Adults

DML Pride!
2024-06-28 18:30 - 21:00 | Dayton Metro Library – Main Library, 215 E. Third Street, Dayton, OH, 45402
Bring your friends and help DML see Pride Month out with a bang! Or at least an amazing film screening. And what movie screams Pride more than, well, Pride? Based on an inspiring true story, Pride uncovers how a group of gays and lesbians in AIDS-stricken England made common-cause with a group of striking coal-miners. Humor and heart mix with a tightly-paced script and a phenomenal ensemble cast to create an unforgettable cinematic experience.

The Vindys w/ Gem Series Opener The Hathaways
2024-06-28 19:00 | Levitt Pavilion Dayton, 134 S. Main St., Dayton, OH, 45402
The Vindys have become one of the most sought-after bands in the Northeast Ohio area with their unique blend of alt-rock that Cleveland Magazine says, “…reminds us of the Black Keys,” and “…make us want to dance, whether we’re in a grimy dive bar or a field in Lake County.” Their album, Bugs, is out now.
The Youngstown, OH based band is led by powerhouse singer / songwriter / guitarist, Jackie Popovec who The Repository says “…uncannily evokes Amy Winehouse on the more retro songs while going full-tilt rock ‘n’ roll on the harder, moodier numbers.” WKBN-TV (CBS) calls the band “… one of the hottest acts in the area… Canfield’s Jackie Popovec — her voice is a blend of Amy Winehouse and Norah Jones.” The Beaver County Times boasts “…Popovec will grab you immediately. She sounds sweet and sultry, vulnerable and persevering.” Rounding out the band is John Anthony on guitar/harmony vocals, and Rick Deak on guitar/harmony vocals. The Vindys “Family Band” includes drummer Owen Davis, bassist Brendan Burke, keyboardist Nathan Anthony and the Youngstown Horns featuring Kyle O’Donnell on trumpet, Brian Mayle on trombone, and Garret Kuchmaner on saxophone. All are classically trained musicians who combine their skills, Popovec as the primary songwriter, and arrangements by the band, resulting in a depth and maturity in their music that is intricate, yet relatable.
Because they are passionate about representing Youngstown as a place where the music scene is thriving. Their name pays homage to their roots by drawing influence from Youngstown’s daily newspaper, The Vindicator. Brad Savage, program director of The Summit 91.3 FM, explains, “To me, they really personify Youngstown and northeast Ohio. They’ve got depth and substance and are instantly likable. Their songs get stuck in your head after one listen.”
The band has performed at various festivals including WonderStruck, WonderRoad, WonderBus, Three Rivers Arts Festival, LaureLive, Winnetka Music Festival, Women Who Rock, and Summerfest where the band won the first day of the Emerging Artist Series selected by voters on Twitter. Additionally, The Vindys have shared the stage with Pat Benatar, Walk Off the Earth, Rita Wilson, Orianthi, The Drive-By Truckers, Marty Stuart, Hunter Hayes, Reeve Carney, and more.
Currently the Vindys are endorsed by EarthQuaker Devices, Heil Sound and Ultimate Ears Pro.

Projects Unlimited Gem Series Opener:
The Hathaways
The Hathaways is a 5 member pop/rock band that has forsaken life on the road and settled down in Dayton, Ohio to continue playing out on weekends and special occasions and develop their original music. They are currently working on their third CD of pop and rock originals. They have had a number of memorable experiences as the opening act for bands such as Cheap Trick, Eddie Money, Molly Hatchet, Rare Earth, Rick Derringer, The Georgia Satellites, The Romantics, McGuffey Lane

Unite And Ignite
2024-06-28 19:30 | PNC Arts Annex, 46 N. Ludlow St., Dayton, OH, 45402
Witness the powerful fusion of community, collaboration, and creativity as Dayton’s diverse artistic voices come together. Dancers and choreographers from Dayton Ballet, Dayton Contemporary Dance Company, Mutual Dance Theatre, and Wright State University will unite to deliver a breathtaking showcase of eight original works that ignite and embody the spirit and vibrancy of our region’s artistic landscape.
UNITE AND IGNITE will take audiences on a stunning journey through a versatile repertoire of choreography, highlighting the Dayton region’s rich and vibrant arts scene. With each performance, expect to see a unique blend of styles and storytelling that will leave viewers feeling inspired and connected.

Friday
Jun 28
7:30PM
BUY TICKETS

Saturday
Jun 29
2:00PM
BUY TICKETS

Saturday
Jun 29
7:30PM

Unite and Ignite
2024-06-28 19:30 - 21:00 | PNC Arts Annex, 46 N. Ludlow St., Dayton, OH, 45402
The Dayton Dance Initiative proudly announces, Unite and Ignite, an evening of exhilarating dance performances that will captivate audiences on June 28th at 7:30pm and June 29th at 2pm and 7:30pm at the PNC Arts Annex.
Witness the powerful fusion of Community, Collaboration, and Creativity as Dayton’s diverse artistic voices come together. Dancers and choreographers from Dayton Ballet, Dayton Contemporary Dance Company, Mutual Dance Theatre, and Wright State University will unite to deliver a breathtaking showcase of eight original works that embody the spirit and vibrancy of our region’s artistic landscape.
Unite and Ignite will take audiences on a stunning journey through a versatile repertoire of choreography, highlighting the Dayton region’s rich and vibrant arts scene. With each performance, expect to see a unique blend of styles and storytelling that will leave viewers feeling inspired and connected.
Join us at the PNC Arts Annex as we celebrate the incredible artistry and unity of Dayton’s dance community. Tickets are available now for this unforgettable evening.

Dayton Silent Disco Beach Party
2024-06-28 20:00 | Yellow Cab Tavern, 700 E 4th St, Dayton, OH, 45402, United States
Dayton Silent Disco is celebrating summer with a “Beach Party” at The Yellow Cab Tavern on June 28th!
Get all of the details and your discounted advanced tickets and group passes at daytonsilentdisco.com
Bust out those board shorts and bikinis, because it’s going to be a heat wave under the big tent! We’ll be celebrating with tons of surprises and of course a full evening of getting down to all of your favorite Red, Green, and Blue station dance party action! Kim L will be on the green station with EDM, Sexbox on the blue station with 70s, 80s, and 90s, and John Chapel on the Red station with modern Hip Hop, you will not want to miss this classic Dayton event!
Cover starts at 8:00pm with music starting at 8:30pm on June 28th
Tickets are $15 presale and $20 at the doors.
We’re offering “Group Tickets” – Save 20% when you bring a group of 10! (Pre-sale only)
*Discounted presale tickets end at Midnight on June 27th.
Tickets available at daytonsilentdisco.com
Yellow Cab’s resident truck, The Pizza Bandit, will be set up and serving through 11pm.
This show is 21+

Dayton Speed Dating
2024-06-29 15:45 | Yellow Cab Tavern, 700 E 4th St, Dayton, OH, 45402, United States
Looking for a fun and exciting way to meet new people in Dayton? We’ve got just the thing for you! Join us at The Yellow Cab Tavern on Saturday, June 29th, from 4 to 8 pm for Dayton Speed Dating – the most inclusive dating event in town!
Tickets and info: https://square.link/u/prYsjEJz
Dating can be tough, especially when you’re part of the queer community. Finding safe, welcoming spaces to meet new people who truly understand and appreciate you can feel like a quest in itself. We’re here to help make that easier.
Why you should attend:
Dayton Speed Dating is your chance to connect with amazing individuals in a fun, relaxed environment. With quick, exciting rounds of dates, you’ll have plenty of chances to find that spark. Plus, we’re queer-inclusive, so everyone is welcome to find their match! Fill out our personality questionnaire, and you’ll be guaranteed a match at the event!
Event Highlights:
Inclusive Rounds: We will have men dating men, women dating women, and women dating men rounds happening simultaneously, followed by an all-queer round. You are welcome to participate in just one round of your choice or join both a specific round and the all-queer round.
Support a Cause: We’re not just about speed dating – we’re about community and making a difference. We’ll be collecting donations for Have a Gay Day and hosting a cash silent auction to raise additional funds. So, while you’re meeting new people, you’ll also be supporting a fantastic cause.
Details You Need to Know:
Check-in starts at 3:45 pm on June 29th.Tickets are $18 in advance with no door ticket sales. Tickets must be purchased in advance.
Limited Availability: Tickets are limited to 100, so snag yours before they sell out.
After Party: The fun doesn’t stop! Join us for Queeraoke at Oregon Express after the event.
Ready to mingle? Grab your ticket now!

Shamarr Allen w/ Gem Series Opener The OG Players
2024-06-29 19:00 | Levitt Pavilion Dayton, 134 S. Main St., Dayton, OH, 45402
Shamarr Allen is the definition of New Orleans! Hailing from the Lower 9th Ward of New Orleans, Allen has influences in jazz, hip-hop, rock, funk rhythms, blues and country. He is the lead vocalist and trumpeter of his band “Shamarr Allen & The Underdawgs.” In addition to performing with his band, Allen has collaborated with many renowned artists around the world such as Willie Nelson, Patti LaBelle, Galatic, Harrick Connick Jr, and Lenny Kravitz, to name a few. He is a sought after artist for festivals and venues around the world. In addition to displaying his skills on the front-line as a lead performer, Allen is also a music composer, writer, and producer. With a scintillating and unique sound, look, and exemplary talents, Shamarr Allen transcends musical boundaries. He is the True Orleans experience!

Projects Unlimited Gem Series Opener: The OG Players
Uniting nearly a decade ago over their mutual love of music, The OG Players are a quartet that combines founder Elaine Mylius, a one-woman orchestra, Eric Rollin, lead vocalist and emcee, Robert Rilery Jr, drummer, and Mayh3m! – Kito Denham, a nationally recognized beat master.

Dayton Dragons vs. Lake County Captains
2024-07-01 19:05 | Day Air Ballpark, 220 North Patterson Blvd., Dayton, OH, 45402
Catch one of the hottest tickets in sports – see the Dayton Dragons play baseball at Day Air Ballpark! For tickets and more information, visit www.daytondragons.com or call 228-2287.

Kayak Rentals at RiverScape with Taiter’s Kayak Solutions
2024-07-02 14:00 - 18:00 | RiverScape MetroPark, 237 E Monument Ave, Dayton, OH, 45402, United States
Part of RiverScape Kayak Rentals series
Kayak Rentals at RiverScape with Taiter’s Kayak Solutions
2:00pm – 6:00pm
AGE: 14 and up | $12.00
Paddle under the fountains with Taiter’s Kayak Solutions all summer long at RiverScape MetroPark! Regular walk-up rental hours will take place Tuesdays from 2-6pm and Thursdays from 4-8pm, June-October. Launch from under the Riverside Bridge along the Great Miami Recreational Trail. The cost to participate is $12 per person per hour. Taiter’s Kayak Solutions staff will provide visitors with brief instructions prior to entering the water, which will include a safety tutorial, and help visitors get into their vessels. All visitors will be required to wear a properly fitted life jacket. Swimming is prohibited in the Great Miami River, but visitors should come prepared to get wet. Those renting will not be permitted to go through the RiverScape River Run whitewater feature. No lifeguards are on duty, and paddling is at all visitors’ own risk. All visitors must sign a waiver to participate. Visit Facebook.com/TaitersKayakSolutions for more information. Weather Dependent.

Cornhole Tournament
2024-07-02 18:30 - 21:00 | RiverScape MetroPark, 237 E Monument Ave, Dayton, OH, 45402, United States
Part of Tuesday Nights in the Park series
Cornhole Tournament
6:30pm – 9:00pm
AGE: All ages | FREE
If you have a competitive spirit, enjoy being outdoors and winning prizes, you won’t want to miss our monthly cornhole tournament! Grab your friends or co-workers and join us under the RiverScape pavilion on the first Tuesday of the month from June through October for some friendly cornhole competition! While our tournament is family-friendly, we recommend participants be 14 and older. Registration will begin on-site at 6:30 PM, with the tournament beginning at 7 PM. Spots are first come, first serve. Additional giant lawn games will also be available to play. Admission is free! The RiverScape Cafe will be open and now offers an expanded food and dessert menu. For those 21 and over, cocktails, wine and other beverages will also be available for purchase as part of the Downtown Dayton DORA Weather Dependent.

Lights in Flight: City of Dayton Fireworks
2024-07-03 22:00 | Kettering Field, 444 N. Bend Blvd., Dayton, OH, 45404
The region’s favorite fireworks show, produced by the City of Dayton Department of Recreation, returns to Kettering Field, just north of downtown Dayton in the McCook Field neighborhood. A viewing area will be available at the northern and eastern sections of Kettering Field (near East Helena Street). Signs will mark the viewing area. Bring chairs or blankets for seating, if you wish. (There will not be a festival before the fireworks display – no food trucks or vendors.)
• The viewing area is accessible starting at 7:00pm.• Show starts at approximately 10:00pm• There will be NO food trucks or vendors.• Bring your own blankets and chairs.
Parking in the area will be limited; it is suggested visitors arrive early.
The following streets will be closed to vehicle traffic beginning at 6 p.m.:

Riverside Dr. from White Allen Ave. to E. Helena St. – Pedestrians Only
E. Helena Dr. from Riverside Dr. to Keowee St. – Pedestrians Only
Brennan Dr. from E. Helena St. to Keowee St. – Pedestrians Only
North Bend Blvd. from E. Helena St. to Webster St. (including Deeds Park Dr.) – Closed to Vehicles & Pedestrians at 3 p.m.
Hall Ave. south of N. Keowee – Closed to vehicles

Recreation trails in nearby parks and along river corridors will be closed to users by 3 p.m. The Great Miami River will be closed to boaters and paddlers in nearby areas.
View or download the event map here.

Exhibit: Part of a Whole: 1/2
2024-07-05 12:00 - 17:00 | Dayton Society of Artists, 48 High Street, Dayton, OH, 45402, United States
PART OF A WHOLE: 1/2
DSA’S ANNUAL MEMBERS SHOW
The Dayton Society of Artists (DSA) is thrilled to present PART OF A WHOLE: 1/2, the first segment of our annual members’ exhibition. This unique two-part event showcases the diverse and vibrant talents of our member artists, encompassing a wide range of mediums, techniques, and styles.
We are honored to have Marsha Pippenger, past president of the DSA, as our juror for this exhibition and this year, DSA has divided the annual members’ exhibition into two parts to ensure all members have the opportunity to present their best work. We are excited to see the incredible variety and quality of art that will be on display, and make sure to come back on August 2nd for another unique members exhibition!
PART OF A WHOLE: 1/2 runs from Friday, July 5th to Saturday, July 27th. Our gallery is open to the public on Fridays and Saturdays from 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM, with additional viewing times available by appointment (email info@daytondsa.org to schedule).

Irish First Fridays
2024-07-05 15:00 | The Dublin Pub, 300 Wayne Ave., Dayton, OH, 45402, United States
Live music at the Dublin Pub! Stop by for a pint and listen to live music for Irish First Fridays. Happy Hour from 3-6pm; Free Juke Box Friday from 6p-7p, Miami Valley Pipes & Drums performance at 7p.

JAM Foodie Tour
2024-07-05 15:00 - 18:00 | Sueno, 607 E. Third St., Dayton, OH, 45402
JAM Foodie Tours are currently walking, talking, and eating on select Fridays and Saturdays in June and July @3:00p starting at Sueño. Every tour varies slightly, but aims to be wrapping up around 5:30-6:00p. Tickets are $100 per person.

JAM Foodie Tours strives to create a unique, communal culinary experience that feeds your mind and belly. Experience our local community while sharing food, exploring culture, and discovering history. Our goal is to create a business that supports and grows the fantastic food and culinary operations in Dayton, as well as enhance the economic development of the streets where we will walk and eat.

What’s Included

Tour guide
Scenic walking route
6-ish samples of food and/or drinks at various establishments in and around the Oregon District.
Education and history about the places we eat at and some of the places we walk by.

First Friday at Front Street
2024-07-05 17:00 - 21:00 | Front Street Galleries, 1001 E. Second St., Dayton, OH, 45402
Enjoy an evening of live music, food trucks, studio and gallery hopping, shopping, and more! It is always free to attend and park at our art hops. We are a family and pet friendly community. With artwork and handmade goods from more than 250 artists, you’re going to want to get here early!

’60s Rock Night featuring The British Invasion
2024-07-05 18:00 - 21:00 | RiverScape MetroPark, 237 E Monument Ave, Dayton, OH, 45402, United States
6:00pm – 9:00pm
AGE: All ages | FREE
The British Invasion will be bringing the best of The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, The Who, and so many more of the most influential British rock bands to the RiverScape stage on July 5th from 6-9 PM. The British Invasion has toured all over the United States, and even in Liverpool, Manchester and London. This is a show you will not want to miss! Admission is FREE! The RiverScape CafÃ© will be open and offers snacks and refreshments. For those 21 and over, beer, wine, and cocktails will also be available for purchase. A local food truck will also be onsite. The RiverScape Summer Music Series is sponsored by the Jack W. & Sally D. Eichelberger Foundation and Enterprise Roofing. Weather Dependent.

OKAN
2024-07-05 19:00 | Levitt Pavilion Dayton, 134 S. Main St., Dayton, OH, 45402
Fusing Afro-Cuban roots with jazz, folk and global rhythms in songs about immigration, resistance and love, OKAN takes their name from the word for heart in their Afro-Cuban religion of Santeria. With vocals in Spanish, English and Spanglish, OKAN is led by the Cuban-born violinist and vocalist Elizabeth Rodriguez and percussionist and vocalist Magdelys Savigne, both Grammy and Latin-Grammy nominees.
Having recently worked with Bomba Estereo, Lido Pimienta, and Dayme Arocena, OKAN’s Juno-winning sophomore release Espiral debuted in first place on Canada’s !Earshot charts and was included in NPR’s top 10 Alt Latino and CBC Music’s top 20 of that year.
Passionate advocates for freedom of expression, queer rights and gender equality, OKAN has gained a reputation for their powerful live performances, which showcase their incredible harmonies, virtuosic musicianship, potent lyrics as well as an unfailing ability to connect with audiences on a deep emotional level.

Embracing genres that have not historically fostered women artists outside of the role of singer, OKAN co-leaders have faced many challenges. Magdelys talks about the obstacles she faced in pursuing percussion in her native Cuba and how “coming out as a percussionist” to her family. was as big a deal as coming out as queer. Part of the next wave of Cuban women composers and multi-instrumentalists, Elizabeth and Magdelys bring a fresh perspective to Latin and world jazz fusion through their powerful harmonies, elevated musicianship and provocative but playful lyrical content.
Born in Havana, Cuba, Elizabeth Rodriguez is a classically trained violinist who served as concertmaster for Havana’s Youth Orchestra. Magdelys Savigne hails from Santiago de Cuba and graduated with honors in orchestral percussion from Havana’s University of the Arts.
Called “lush and vibrant, urgent but specific and deeply intentional” by CBC Music, OKAN’s second album Espiral delved deeper into the group’s rich Cuban roots, finding renewed inspiration in this powerful musical heritage. The Santeria influences aremost evident in the title track, which uniquely blends guajira, the folk genre of Eastern Cuba, with Santeria-derived chants.
A new album, Okantomi, to be released in the fall of 2023, includes special guests as classical violinist Lara St. John, leading figures in Cuban jazz, Dayme Arocena and Elmer Ferrer as well as the legendary Afro-Cuban percussionist Amado Dedeu.
Official showcases at SXSW, Folk Alliance International, Mundial Montreal, Contact East, Folk Music Ontario, Pacific Contact, Ontario Contact and Global Toronto have led to invitations to perform across Canada and the U.S. with stops at The Kortright Centre (Vancouver), The Grand (Calgary), Hermann’s (Victoria), Passim (Boston), Old Town School of Folk (Chicago), Cal Performances (Berkely), as well at the Blue Skies, Mariposa, Toronto Jazz, Exit Next, Nuit D’Afrique, Harrison and Middlebury festivals, to name just a few.

Cab Grass Concert Series – Wildwater Boys
2024-07-05 19:00 | Yellow Cab Tavern, 700 E 4th St, Dayton, OH, 45402, United States
Cab Grass is proud to present Wildwater Boys on July 5th as part of our 2024 Roots and Heritage concert series happening on the First Friday of every month at the Yellow Cab Tavern!
Join us for The Shady Pine Jam opening up with featured special guests and artists to make for a whole evening of live Bluegrass, Folk, and Americana music!
Cover starts at 7pm, music starts at 8pm and tickets are $9 in advance and $12 at the doors.
*All ages welcome with a guardian.
Presale tickets available at https://ten-high-productions.square.site/**Discounted presale tickets end at Midnight on July 4th.
Yellow Cab’s resident truck, The Pizza Bandit, will be set up and serving through 11pm.
