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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260807T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260807T210000
DTSTAMP:20260714T133733
CREATED:20260603T191559Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260603T191559Z
UID:10059385-1786129200-1786136400@downtowndayton.org
SUMMARY:Summer Music Series: Rockin’ Party with The Menus
DESCRIPTION:Join us under the pavilion as the RiverScape Summer Music Series features a Rockin’ Party with The Menus! Get ready for a high-energy night of music and unforgettable stage antics with The Menus! Formed in Cincinnati in 1983\, this crowd-favorite has built a reputation for electrifying performances led by frontman Tim Goldrainer\, whose powerful vocals\, wild wardrobe\, and signature moment of kicking confetti-filled balloons into the crowd keeps audiences cheering.\nBacked by the standout guitar work of Stephen Chiodi\, the rock-solid bass lines of John Castetter\, and the rich keyboard sound of Jimi Orwig – including his distinctive Hammond B-3 style\, The Menus deliver a full\, dynamic sound that has kept fans coming back for decades. Come ready for great music\, colorful fun\, and a show packed with surprises!\nBring your lawn chairs and enjoy this FREE live concert\, while taking in a spectacular sunset over the Great Miami River. The RiverScape Café will be open selling food and drinks along with alcoholic beverages\, including beer\, wine\, and cocktails\, for those 21 and over. The Summer Music Series is presented by AES Ohio\, and supported by Jack W. & Sally D. Eichelberger Foundation and Enterprise Roofing.
URL:https://downtowndayton.org/event/summer-music-series-rockin-party-with-the-menus/
LOCATION:RiverScape MetroPark\, 237 E Monument Ave\, Dayton\, OH\, 45402\, United States
CATEGORIES:Art in the City 2026
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://downtowndayton.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/651708677_1341251934701113_383051464685585367_n.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260807T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260807T190000
DTSTAMP:20260714T133733
CREATED:20260603T143647Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260603T143647Z
UID:10059358-1786129200-1786129200@downtowndayton.org
SUMMARY:SCYTHIAN
DESCRIPTION:August 7 @ 7:00 PM\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nFree Admission\n\n\n/\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nGenre:\n\n\n\n\nCeltic Rock/Folk-Rock \n\n\n\n\n\n\nNamed after Ukrainian nomads\, Scythian (sith-ee-yin) plays roots music from Celtic\, Eastern European and Appalachian traditions with thunderous energy\, technical prowess\, and storytelling songwriting\, beckoning crowds into a barn-dance\, rock concert experience. Nashville’s Music City Roots says Scythian is ‘what happens when rock star charisma meets Celtic dervish fiddling’\, and the Washington Post claims “Scythian’s enthusiasm is contagious\, and shows seem to end with everyone dancing\, jumping around or hoisting glasses.” The foursome made up of Alexander Fedoryka (Vocals\, Fiddle\, Mandolin\, Harmonica)\, Danylo Fedoryka (Vocals\, Guitar\, Accordion)\, Ethan Dean (Vocals\, Upright and Electric Bass\, Percussion\, Guitar) and Johnny Rees (Vocals\, Drums\, Percussion) brings various influences together to create a conglomerate which is technically precise and steeped in various folk traditions: The classically trained Fedoryka brothers grew up on Ukrainian folk music and bluegrass\, while Ethan Dean was raised on the greats of 60’s & 70’s folk-rock. Lafayette LA raised Johnny Rees brings a Cajun backbeat to the Celtic-Americana fusion giving Scythian yet another dimension which keeps audiences entertained and moving. Scythian is coming off its most prolific year in 2020 with over 1\,000 hours of live streams during the Covid Lockdowns\, release of two new albums (Roots & Stones and Quaranstream: The Album) and four new music videos. You have to catch the live show to understand why The Cammel City Dispatch said of their Merlefest performance: “[Scythian gives] no quarter in their quest to entertain and bring a joy to their music that gives it an irony-free\, wide open feel of manic possibility. The playing is technically brilliant\, but it is the energy that carries the day.”
URL:https://downtowndayton.org/event/scythian/
LOCATION:Levitt Pavilion Dayton\, 134 S. Main St.\, Dayton\, OH\, 45402
CATEGORIES:Art in the City 2026
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://downtowndayton.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/scythian.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260807T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260807T193000
DTSTAMP:20260714T133733
CREATED:20260514T132216Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260514T132216Z
UID:10056169-1786123800-1786131000@downtowndayton.org
SUMMARY:Party at the Plaza
DESCRIPTION:It’s time to break out your baseball caps and jerseys! Party at the Plaza returns from 5:30 to 7:30pm! Join us for a night full of live performances\, raffles\, outdoor games\, inflatables\, resident-only experiences\, free goodies and more. Fans and downtown residents are encouraged to head to the heart of the Water Street District and visit the plaza between 5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. to enjoy the festivities before the game!
URL:https://downtowndayton.org/event/party-at-the-plaza/2026-08-07/
LOCATION:Day Air Ballpark\, 220 North Patterson Blvd.\, Dayton\, OH\, 45402
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://downtowndayton.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/partyplaza.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260807T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260807T173000
DTSTAMP:20260714T133733
CREATED:20260508T134353Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260508T134353Z
UID:10056120-1786123800-1786123800@downtowndayton.org
SUMMARY:Downtown Dayton Historic Walking Tours
DESCRIPTION:Explore and learn about the diverse selection of retail\, industrial\, entertainment\, and residential sites on this guided walking tour of Downtown Dayton. Our guided downtown walking tours will launch promptly at 5:30 p.m. from the Dayton Arcade entrance on Fourth Street. This 90-minute\, 1.5-mile tour may be deemed strenuous by some\, and patrons should be able to walk/navigate city sidewalks and streets. Please wear comfortable walking shoes and bring a water bottle if needed. Tours will launch rain or shine\, except in the event of thunder or lightning. Reservations are required to attend. Tickets: https://www.preservationdayton.com/downtown_tours.html
URL:https://downtowndayton.org/event/downtown-dayton-historic-walking-tours/2026-08-07/
LOCATION:Dayton Arcade\, 35 W. Fourth St.\, Dayton\, OH\, 45402
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://downtowndayton.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/walkingtours.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260807T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260807T210000
DTSTAMP:20260714T133733
CREATED:20260603T133431Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260603T133431Z
UID:10058365-1786122000-1786136400@downtowndayton.org
SUMMARY:First Friday
DESCRIPTION:The beginning of every month starts with a bang in downtown Dayton. First Friday is a free art hop featuring exhibit openings at the galleries\, along with a variety of entertainment options\, arts demonstrations\, live music and more. Add to that everything going on at the restaurants\, bars\, nightclubs\, theaters\, comedy club\, movie theater and more that make up the downtown mix. First Friday is presented by the Downtown Dayton Partnership. For more info and specific event details\, visit the First Friday Facebook page. 224-1518.
URL:https://downtowndayton.org/event/first-friday-2/
LOCATION:Downtown Dayton
CATEGORIES:Art in the City 2026
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://downtowndayton.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/firstfriday.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260807T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260807T210000
DTSTAMP:20260714T133733
CREATED:20260603T131043Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260603T131244Z
UID:10056523-1786122000-1786136400@downtowndayton.org
SUMMARY:Open House at the Front Street Studios
DESCRIPTION:Let the Front Street Studios be your one-stop-shopping location for art\, crafts\, photography\, vintage retail and so much more. Front Street has 150 studios/stores in 3 different historic buildings. Not only do we have an open-house every first Friday of the month\, but we are also open every Saturday from 11AM to 4PM.
URL:https://downtowndayton.org/event/open-house-at-the-front-street-studios-3/
LOCATION:Front Street Galleries\, 1001 E. Second St.\, Dayton\, OH\, 45402
CATEGORIES:Art in the City 2026
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://downtowndayton.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/frontstreet2.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20260807T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20260807T210000
DTSTAMP:20260714T133733
CREATED:20241216T140625Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251215T135446Z
UID:10053957-1786122000-1786136400@downtowndayton.org
SUMMARY:First Friday
DESCRIPTION:The beginning of every month starts with a bang in downtown Dayton. First Friday is a free art hop featuring exhibit openings at the galleries\, along with a variety of entertainment options\, arts demonstrations\, live music and more. Add to that everything going on at the restaurants\, bars\, nightclubs\, theaters\, comedy club\, movie theater and more that make up the downtown mix. First Friday is presented by the Downtown Dayton Partnership. For more info and specific event details\, visit the First Friday Facebook page. 224-1518.
URL:https://downtowndayton.org/event/first-friday/2026-08-07/
LOCATION:Downtown Dayton
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://downtowndayton.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/firstfriday.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260807T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260807T200000
DTSTAMP:20260714T133733
CREATED:20260528T143055Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260528T143055Z
UID:10056371-1786118400-1786132800@downtowndayton.org
SUMMARY:Kayak Rentals with Taiters Kayak
DESCRIPTION:Part of RiverScape Kayak Rentals series \nKayak Rentals with Taiters Kayak\nAGE: 10 and up | $15.00\, $25.00\, $60.00\n\nPaddle under the fountains with Taiters Kayak all summer long at RiverScape MetroPark! Kayakers launch from the bottom of the levee along the Great Miami Recreational Trail\, and the rental options include: $15.00/30 minutes\, $25.00/1 hour\, or $60.00/day pass (the 4-hour rental window). Taiters Kayak staff will provide participants with brief instructions prior to entering the water – including a safety tutorial – and will help participants get into their vessels. All participants will be required to wear a properly fitted life jacket. Swimming is prohibited in the Great Miami River\, but participants should come prepared to get wet. Participants will also not be permitted to go through the RiverScape River Run whitewater feature. No lifeguards are on duty\, and paddling is at all participants’ own risk. All participants will be required to sign a waiver before entering their vessel\, and all minors must have a parent/guardian present. Regular walk-up rental hours take place Wednesdays and Fridays\, from 5-9PM (6/3-7/31) and 4-8PM (8/5-9/11). Visit Facebook.com/TaitersKayak or TaitersKayak.com for more information. Weather Dependent. \nGet out and paddle on the Great Miami River with Taiters Kayak at RiverScape MetroPark!
URL:https://downtowndayton.org/event/kayak-rentals-with-taiters-kayak-3/2026-08-07/
LOCATION:RiverScape MetroPark\, 237 E Monument Ave\, Dayton\, OH\, 45402\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://downtowndayton.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/riverscape.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260807
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260808
DTSTAMP:20260714T133733
CREATED:20260714T172243Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260714T172312Z
UID:10059641-1786060800-1786147199@downtowndayton.org
SUMMARY:Future Is Now X Museum Group Exhibition
DESCRIPTION:Future Is Now X Museum presents its inaugural Group Exhibition\, an eight-day multimedia event uniting 154 visual artists\, live musicians\, DJ performers\, and digital innovators at 118 N. Jefferson St. and 40 N. Ludlow St. in downtown Dayton. Running July 31 through August 7\, 2026\, the exhibition is curator Kimyon Huggins’ first Dayton production since leaving for New York City in 1998\, channeling thirty years of practice at the intersection of art\, music\, and technology back into the city where it began. Born from the FUTUREISNOWX Sunday livestream series launched in October 2020\, Edition 01 brings together physical works\, curated video installations from 250+ archived broadcasts\, site-specific murals created live during the exhibition\, and one weekend of DJ and live performance. Painters and muralists paint large-scale works on site throughout the eight days\, documented by stop-motion video and streamed globally at futureisnowx.com. \nKeynote: Al Díaz — Co-Creator of SAMO© with Jean-Michel Basquiat\nAl Díaz is one of the first artists featured on FUTUREISNOWX and serves as keynote speaker for Edition 01. Co-creator of the SAMO© campaign with Jean-Michel Basquiat (1978–80)\, Díaz is a pioneering graffiti writer whose current practice transforms MTA subway signage letters into anagram installations in stations across New York City. At Edition 01 he participates in an artist Q+A\, panel discussion\, and live painting at 118 N. Jefferson St.\nConfirmed Muralist — Cern (Cernesto)\nNew York City-based visual artist\, musician\, and former graffiti writer active since the early 1990s. Born in Queens\, based in Brooklyn. Known for large-scale murals and cooperative installations featuring women\, animals\, and abstract forms — a smooth\, blended style with clearly defined edges. Exhibited at the San Diego Museum of Art\, Museu Brasileiro de Escultura in São Paulo\, MOCA Los Angeles\, and URBAN NATION Museum in Berlin.\nVisual Artists — 154 Artists. One Platform.\nEdition 01 presents artists working across painting\, muralism\, installation\, public art\, photography\, abstraction\, portraiture\, and experimental practice\, drawing from Dayton\, New York City\, Detroit\, Chicago\, Atlanta\, Los Angeles\, and international communities. Featured artists include Al Diaz\, Pablo Power\, Kimyon333\, Ellis Gallagher\, Cern\, Gabe Specter\, La Femme Cheri\, Konstance Patton\, Kirby Santos\, Ian Cinco\, Rene Lerude\, Smurfo\, Allison Ruiz\, Kosuke James\, Came Moreno\, Vane Russo\, Praxis\, Alice Gypsy Queen\, Freehumanity\, Will Power\, Alanna Vanacore\, Molly Snee\, Emily Salk\, Technodrome\, Chris Soria\, M-Dot Season\, Bil Tipton\, Mr. Champagne\, Taliaferro Sebastian\, and 20 Dayton artists. \nOpening Weekend: \nFRIDAY\, JULY 31 | 2026\n118 N. Jefferson St. | 12PM – 9PM\nDJs and live paintings starting at 12PM. Featured Artist: CERN\nDJs: Jacqueline Farrara + OGC + Special Guests.\nPainters: TBA.\n7PM – Ignite Salon: Inspiration in the Age of Social Media | CERN\, Max Watts\, Sugar\, 5tr8tch\, Fatty Lumpkin\n40 N. Ludlow St. | 7PM – 2:30AM\nMax Watts Live (Detroit)\, 5tr8tch (LA)\, Plural Live (Detroit)\, Sugar (Detroit)\, Fatty Lumpkin (Dayton)\n+Special Guests \nSATURDAY\, AUGUST 1st\n118 N. Jefferson St. | 12PM – 9PM\nDJs and live painting from 12PM. Featured Artist: CERN\nDJs: Jacqueline Farrara + Sugar + Special Guests. Painters: TBA.\n5PM – The Landscape of Urban Contemporary Art with Al Díaz\n8PM – Special Performance: Dayton Dance Initiative presents Parola. Choreographed by Macy Perry\, an excerpt from the company’s 2026 season\, The Light In Between. Four women move as a collective body\, transforming repetition into ritual and exploring themes of rage\, instinct\, and feminine power. Performed by Jasmine Getz\, Niarra Gooden-Clarke\, Celeste Kennington\, and KC Lyphout.\n40 N. Ludlow St. | 7PM – 2:30AM\nFBK Live (Columbus)\, Max Watts (Detroit)\, Leftside (NY)\, Salar Ansari (Detroit)\, Rechulski (NY)\, Kimyon333 (NY)\nSUNDAY\, AUGUST 2 | 12PM – 10PM\nFUTUREISNOWX Livestream. DJs + Live Painting 12PM.\nDJs: J(Redacted)\, Barry Leonhard + Special Guests.\nPainters: Al Díaz and more TBA.\nLivestream 4-10PM: J(Redacted)\, Barry Leonhard\, OGC\, Kimyon333 \nFRIDAY\, AUGUST 7 | 4PM – 10PM | CLOSING PARTY\nKimyon333 (NY)\, OGC (Dayton)\, Gunner (Dayton) Tanker.Edu (Columbus)\nPerforming Artists\nMax Watts (Detroit): Founder of Limited Network — a Detroit-based label and collective distributed by the legendary Submerge camp — Max Watts brings an archivist’s taste beyond his years and mixes it with an urgent spontaneity that has earned him a global following. Watts performs as part of Search Party\, a live PA alongside Kasan Belgrave\, Julien P.\, and Allen Dennard\, and has appeared at NYC’s Nowadays\, Public Records\, and Tresor Berlin. His music is rooted in old-school Detroit but speaks a universal language.\nSalar Ansari (Detroit): Born in Tehran and based in Detroit since 2015\, Salar Ansari is a multi-disciplinary artist\, producer\, and educator whose work bridges electronic music\, sound engineering\, and community building across continents. A 2021 Detroit Music Award winner for Best Electronic Album and a 2026 Kresge Artist Fellow in music composition and performance\, one of Detroit’s most prestigious arts fellowships\, carrying a $50\,000 award. Ansari is a co-founder of Feeder Loft with Grammy-winning musician Luis Resto and co-founder of Analog Room\, an international music residency spanning Iran and the UAE. His productions appear on Blue Note Records\, and his reach as an educator extends to the Interlochen Arts Academy and the University of Michigan.\nPlural (Detroit): Metroplex recording artist James Johnson\, recently relocated from Columbus to Detroit\, whose deep ties to the Motor City’s techno lineage are matched by a prolific live and production practice.\nFBK (Columbus): Kevin Kennedy\, producing and performing since 1988\, mentored by Daniel Bell and Anthony ‘Shake’ Shakir\, with releases on Rekids\, Frictional\, and Knotweed.\n5tr8tch (Los Angeles): Owner of NoNonsense Records\, a DTLA-based shop at 453 S. Spring St. specializing in electronic music and built on the ethos of made for DJs by DJs\, 5tr8tch is also the organizer of large-scale free outlaw parties throughout downtown Los Angeles and a defining force in the city’s independent underground dance music scene.\nSugar (Detroit): A Detroit-area DJ and producer rooted in old-school house and techno\, Sugar is a fixture in the Motor City underground\, regularly appearing alongside artists from the Limited Network and Humidex Records camps.\nLeftside (NY): A New York-based DJ and selector with deep roots in underground house and techno\, Leftside has been a trusted voice in NYC’s dance music scene across more than two decades of consistent programming.\nFatty Lumpkin (Dayton): A Dayton-based DJ and cultural connector whose sets span house\, techno\, and beyond\, Fatty Lumpkin is a longtime presence in the city’s underground music community.\nRechulski (NYC): Founder of NYC artist collective\, label and 24 hour parties Sheik ‘N’ Beik\, and Okeechobee Music & Arts Festival.\nBarry Leonhard: WYSO Yellow Springs weekly Club Cuts Dance Music show coordinator.\nJacqueline Farrara: DJ and poet from New York. Wavefarm Radio resident.\nOGC: Racks N Jacks resident crew producing events in and around the Dayton area.
URL:https://downtowndayton.org/event/future-is-now-x-museum-group-exhibition/2026-08-07/
LOCATION:118 N. Jefferson St.\, 118 N. Jefferson St.\, Dayton\, OH\, 45402
CATEGORIES:Art in the City 2026
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://downtowndayton.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/finx.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260807
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260808
DTSTAMP:20260714T133733
CREATED:20260616T144522Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260616T145631Z
UID:10059450-1786060800-1786147199@downtowndayton.org
SUMMARY:Liz Quay\, Jayne Struble\, and Kathy McGhee Art Exhibits
DESCRIPTION:The Sinclair Community College Art Department is pleased to present “Marks & Stitches” by Liz Quay & Jayne Struble in the Burnell R. Roberts Triangle Gallery along with “Printed Landscapes” by Kathy McGhee in the Works on Paper Gallery. Through the collaborative lens of “Marks & Stitches” Struble and Quay delve into the connections found in nature and the human body. Their collaboration is an exploration of the invisible ties that bind humanity together and highlight the beauty of interconnectedness. Struble’s graphite drawings of the landscape investigate the way visual artifacts\, such as images\, are a tangible yet fragile representation of one’s memories\, while Quay explores the tension and stagnation that is generated through managing emotional balance through fiber art and experimental sculpture. McGhee’s “Printed Landscapes” utilizes a variety of printmaking techniques to capture intimate moments of beauty in the landscape and explore the relationships between plants and the places they exist. She is inspired not only by the experience of being in nature but also by the visual patterns created through line\, texture\, and color as organisms naturally coexist. There will be a virtual artist talk via Zoom on Friday\, July 10\, 2026\, at 12pm. Visit www.sinclair.edu/artgalleries for details. The exhibitions will be on display from July 6–August 14\, 2026. Galleries are located on the fourth floor of building 13 (located at West Fifth and South Perry Streets). The galleries are free and open to the public from 8am–6pm Monday–Friday and 9am–12pm Saturdays. Free and accessible parking is located in Parking Lot K.
URL:https://downtowndayton.org/event/liz-quay-jayne-struble-and-kathy-mcghee-art-exhibits/2026-08-07/
LOCATION:Galleries at Sinclair College\, 444 W. Third St.\, Bldg. 13\, Dayton\, OH\, 45402
CATEGORIES:Art in the City 2026
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://downtowndayton.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/sinclairjulyaug26.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260807
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260808
DTSTAMP:20260714T133733
CREATED:20260603T141236Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260603T141236Z
UID:10059341-1786060800-1786147199@downtowndayton.org
SUMMARY:Niki Johnson: Pillars of Democracy
DESCRIPTION:The Contemporary Dayton is proud to present Niki Johnson: Pillars of Democracy\, a series of four large-scale collaged portraits envisioning Liberty\, Justice\, Freedom\, and Forward as first-time voters from Milwaukee. Set across Wisconsin landscapes at dawn\, midday\, dusk\, and night\, the works reflect how democratic values are lived\, protected\, and renewed at the local level. \nConstructed from discarded stencil paper and leftover spray paint collected during the 2020 installation of Shepard Fairey’s Voting Rights Are Human Rights mural\, the series bridges more than a century of voting rights activism through both material and design. Inspired in part by Bertha Boyd’s 1911 suffrage poster Votes for Women\, the works foreground the central role of women in democracy\, from early suffragists to first-time voters today\, uniting generations through civic participation and creative resistance. \nBuilt collaboratively over ten months with the support of Milwaukee artists and community volunteers\, Pillars of Democracy reminds us that democracy is not abstract\, but rather something we actively build\, sustain\, and strengthen through everyday acts of participation\, dialogue\, and collective care. \nPresented during The Contemporary Dayton’s 35th anniversary season\, the exhibition reflects our ongoing commitment to freedom of expression and to creating space for artistic inquiry\, civic engagement\, and public dialogue. \nJohnson is a Milwaukee-based artist\, curator\, and Executive Director of the Forward Art Initiative. She earned her BFA from the University of Memphis and her MA/MFA in Studio Art from the University of Wisconsin–Madison. Her work is included in the collection of the Dayton Art Institute and has been reviewed in publications including The New York Times\, The Guardian\, Hyperallergic\, and Vice Magazine. \n\n\n\n\n\n\nOPENING NIGHT / Wednesday\, July 1\nMember & Sponsor Preview: 5-6 pm \nPublic Reception: 6-8 pm \nArtist Talk: 6:30 pm
URL:https://downtowndayton.org/event/niki-johnson-pillars-of-democracy-2/2026-08-07/
LOCATION:The Contemporary Dayton\, 25 W. Fourth St.\, Dayton\, OH\, 45402\, United States
CATEGORIES:Art in the City 2026
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://downtowndayton.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/johnson.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260807
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260808
DTSTAMP:20260714T133733
CREATED:20260603T140236Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260603T140236Z
UID:10059298-1786060800-1786147199@downtowndayton.org
SUMMARY:All the World’s a Stage
DESCRIPTION:May 16–August 9\, 2026\, Gallery 117   \nAcross cultures\, the performing arts—drama\, dance\, music—have entertained and educated\, bringing people together in communal spaces to celebrate and question what it means to be human. Along the way\, visual arts have depicted performers and performances\, commemorating and giving semi-permanent form to temporal acts\, from records of sacred rituals to portraits of leading actors. \nAt the same time\, performance extends beyond the stage to the world\, becoming a metaphor for our lives and how we interact with others. As we form our individual identities\, we play a variety of roles in a range of social settings at different points in life\, all while we serve as the audience of others. Drawing together a range of artworks from the DAI collection\, this exhibition shines a spotlight on performers across the ages and how they\, in turn\, may shape the ways we act.
URL:https://downtowndayton.org/event/all-the-worlds-a-stage/2026-08-07/
LOCATION:The Dayton Art Institute\, 456 Belmonte Park N\, Dayton\, OH\, 45405\, United States
CATEGORIES:Art in the City 2026
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://downtowndayton.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/stage.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260807
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260808
DTSTAMP:20260714T133733
CREATED:20260603T135940Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260603T135940Z
UID:10059276-1786060800-1786147199@downtowndayton.org
SUMMARY:Exploring Feminism
DESCRIPTION:February 7\, 2026–January 31\, 2027\, Gallery 118 \nFeminism feels like a loaded term that\, when presented to people\, often triggers a gut reaction that it is positive or negative. But what actually is feminism? Presenting feminist artwork from the newly acquired Sara M. and Michelle Vance Waddell Collection\, this three-part\, rotating exhibition will demystify the origins\, history and commitments of the feminist movement. \nOften discussed in terms of waves\, feminism has signified struggles for a range of causes at varying moments in time. Through Exploring Feminism\, guests may become better acquainted with cycles of protest\, self-expression and community-building for a movement that has continued to change and adapt to include more and different constituents within its umbrella of “feminists.” \nNo bras will be burned (and\, in fact\, never were) for this new exhibition featuring regional\, national and international artists working in all manner of media.
URL:https://downtowndayton.org/event/exploring-feminism/2026-08-07/
LOCATION:The Dayton Art Institute\, 456 Belmonte Park N\, Dayton\, OH\, 45405\, United States
CATEGORIES:Art in the City 2026
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://downtowndayton.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/exfem.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260807
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260808
DTSTAMP:20260714T133733
CREATED:20260603T135727Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260603T135727Z
UID:10059254-1786060800-1786147199@downtowndayton.org
SUMMARY:Captivating Clay: Contemporary Japanese Ceramics from the Horvitz Collection
DESCRIPTION:April 13\, 2024–January 3\, 2027\, Gallery 106 \nToday\, Japanese ceramic artists are building on centuries of tradition and taking the art in dynamic and new directions. They are exploring the potential of clay to create both functional and abstract sculptural forms with an incredible range of surface textures and decoration. The aesthetic sensibilities are varied\, from rough and imperfect to detailed and refined\, but all show a mastery of the craft. \nDrawn from the renowned collection of Carol and Jeffrey Horvitz—including recent gifts from them to the museum—this exhibition presents more than thirty artworks spanning eight decades. Traditionally a craft restricted to men\, in recent years women have become some of the leading voices in the field and several examples are included. \nArtists range from innovative pioneers in the twentieth century\, several designated as Living National Treasures in Japan\, to emerging\, younger artists. Interspersed are examples from the DAI’s collection of historic Japanese ceramics. Across 2\,000 years\, these speak to the long history of the art in the island nation and their continued inspiration for artists today.
URL:https://downtowndayton.org/event/captivating-clay-contemporary-japanese-ceramics-from-the-horvitz-collection/2026-08-07/
LOCATION:The Dayton Art Institute\, 456 Belmonte Park N\, Dayton\, OH\, 45405\, United States
CATEGORIES:Art in the City 2026
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://downtowndayton.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/captivating.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260807
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260808
DTSTAMP:20260714T133733
CREATED:20260603T135057Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260603T135241Z
UID:10058686-1786060800-1786147199@downtowndayton.org
SUMMARY:Fighters for Freedom: William H. Johnson Picturing Justice
DESCRIPTION:June 27–September 13\, 2026\, Gallery 120 \nWilliam H. Johnson (1901–1970) painted the Fighters for Freedom series in the mid-1940s as tribute to African American activists\, scientists\, teachers and performers as well as international leaders working to bring peace to the world. It was his last body of work. This landmark exhibition brings together—for the first time since 1946—34 paintings featured in the series\, drawn from the collection of the Smithsonian American Art Museum (SAAM). This nationally traveling exhibition is accompanied by a scholarly\, full-color exhibition catalog. \nOf the series\, SAAM states: “The exhibition illuminates the extraordinary life and contributions of Johnson\, an artist associated with the Harlem Renaissance but whose practice spanned several continents\, as well as the contributions of historical figures he depicted. Some of his Fighters—Marian Anderson\, George Washington Carver\, Mohandas Gandhi\, and Harriet Tubman—are familiar figures; others—Nannie Helen Burroughs and William Grant Still\, among them—are less well-known individuals whose achievements have been eclipsed over time. Johnson celebrates their accomplishments even as he acknowledges the realities of racism\, oppression and sometimes violence they faced and overcame. Johnson clues viewers to significant episodes in the Fighters lives by punctuating each portrait with tiny buildings\, flags and vignettes that give insight into their stories. Using a colorful palette to create evocative scenes and craft important narratives\, he suggests that the pursuit of freedom is an ongoing\, interconnected struggle\, with moments of both triumph and tragedy.”
URL:https://downtowndayton.org/event/fighters-for-freedom-william-h-johnson-picturing-justice-2/2026-08-07/
LOCATION:The Dayton Art Institute\, 456 Belmonte Park N\, Dayton\, OH\, 45405\, United States
CATEGORIES:Art in the City 2026
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://downtowndayton.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/picturingjustice.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260806T200000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260806T200000
DTSTAMP:20260714T133733
CREATED:20250318T142048Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250318T142048Z
UID:10031881-1786046400-1786046400@downtowndayton.org
SUMMARY:Music Bingo Thursdays
DESCRIPTION:We have music bingo every Thursday! It’s free to play\, lots of fun\, hosted by KG\, and there are prizes galore. Come check it out!
URL:https://downtowndayton.org/event/music-bingo-thursdays/2026-08-06/
LOCATION:The Trolley Stop\, 530 E. Fifth St.\, Dayton\, OH\, 45402\, USA
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://downtowndayton.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/trolley.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260806T193000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260806T230000
DTSTAMP:20260714T133733
CREATED:20260713T122057Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260713T122057Z
UID:10059624-1786044600-1786057200@downtowndayton.org
SUMMARY:Brighter Daze 2 – Trey Posey & Friends
DESCRIPTION:Get ready for the second installment of Brighter Daze\, bringing an eclectic\, high-energy lineup to the heart of Dayton! Headlined by bthis showcase is a massive celebration of local sound\, heavily featuring some of the sharpest hip-hop acts around alongside a few sonic surprises. Come catch incredible live sets from: Trey Posey Luther Suede Owen Phillip Gary\, Son Tino Isicle …and keeping things wonderfully unpredictable\, a special rock performance from Yuppie! Whether you’re here for the heavy hip-hop beats or the unexpected rock grooves\, it’s going to be a stellar night of live music and community. Grab your pre-sale tickets early to save! Event Details  Date: Thursday\, August 6\, 2026  Venue: The Brightside (905 E 3rd St\, Dayton\, OH)  Timing: Doors open at 7:00 PM | Show starts at 7:30 PM  Admission: $13 Pre-sale | $20 At the Door  Age Policy: 18+ (Under 18 allowed if accompanied by a parent or guardian) Get your ticket here: https://tickets.venuepilot.com/e/brighter-daze-featuring-trey-posey-friends-2026-08-06-the-brightside-music-event-venue-dayton-c09526
URL:https://downtowndayton.org/event/brighter-daze-2-trey-posey-friends/
LOCATION:The Brightside\, 905 E. Third St.\, Dayton\, OH\, 45402
CATEGORIES:Art in the City 2026
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://downtowndayton.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/daze.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260806T193000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260806T223000
DTSTAMP:20260714T133733
CREATED:20250528T121150Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250528T121150Z
UID:10036889-1786044600-1786055400@downtowndayton.org
SUMMARY:Open Mic Night
DESCRIPTION:Open Mic Night – sign up online\, then show up and show out.
URL:https://downtowndayton.org/event/open-mic-night/2026-08-06/
LOCATION:The Barrel House\, 417 E. Third St.\, Dayton\, OH\, 45402\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://downtowndayton.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/bhom.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260806T193000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260806T193000
DTSTAMP:20260714T133733
CREATED:20260714T170815Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260714T170815Z
UID:10059630-1786044600-1786044600@downtowndayton.org
SUMMARY:Spring Awakening
DESCRIPTION:Spring Awakening\, produced by TheatreLab Dayton is a powerful\, rock-driven coming-of-age musical that explores the restless yearning and suffocating alienation of adolescence. Set in 1891 Germany\, the story follows a group of young classmates as they navigate desire and self-discovery in a rigid\, unforgiving society. Please note\, Spring Awakening contains strong language\, as well as depictions of violence\, suicide\, and sexual content. Written by Duncan Sheik and Steven Sater Directed by Philip Drennen \nhttps://www.simpletix.com/e/spring-awakening-tickets-280218
URL:https://downtowndayton.org/event/spring-awakening/2026-08-06/
LOCATION:Dayton Masonic Center\, 525 W. Riverview Ave.\, Dayton\, OH\, 45405-4702\, United States
CATEGORIES:Art in the City 2026
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://downtowndayton.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/sawake.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260806T190500
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260806T190500
DTSTAMP:20260714T133734
CREATED:20260227T140549Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260227T140549Z
UID:10054864-1786043100-1786043100@downtowndayton.org
SUMMARY:Dayton Dragons vs. Great Lakes Loons
DESCRIPTION: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.
URL:https://downtowndayton.org/event/dayton-dragons-vs-great-lakes-loons/2026-08-06/
LOCATION:Day Air Ballpark\, 220 North Patterson Blvd.\, Dayton\, OH\, 45402
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://downtowndayton.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/dragons16x9.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260806T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260806T210000
DTSTAMP:20260714T133734
CREATED:20260420T183322Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260420T183322Z
UID:10055902-1786042800-1786050000@downtowndayton.org
SUMMARY:Music Bingo
DESCRIPTION:Turn up the fun and test your knowledge at Music Bingo\, where your favorite songs replace the numbers and every round feels like a mini dance party. Grab your friends\, sing along\, and play for prizes! Settle in by the RiverScape Café with some food and drinks\, then see how fast you can match the tunes to your card. The first to hit five in a row takes the win with a variety of prizes\, so keep your ears sharp and your bingo marker ready! Music Bingo is free to participate\, but we recommend coming early as bingo sheets are limited. The RiverScape Café will be open with a variety of flatbreads\, sides\, desserts\, and refreshments available for purchase. For those 21 and over\, there will also be a full menu of cocktails\, wine\, and beer available for purchase as part of the Downtown Dayton DORA.
URL:https://downtowndayton.org/event/music-bingo/2026-08-06/
LOCATION:RiverScape MetroPark\, 237 E Monument Ave\, Dayton\, OH\, 45402\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://downtowndayton.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/661717476_1356027519890221_6703995970341968795_n.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260806T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260806T190000
DTSTAMP:20260714T133734
CREATED:20260603T143454Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260603T143454Z
UID:10059357-1786042800-1786042800@downtowndayton.org
SUMMARY:Ron Artis II
DESCRIPTION:Ron Artis II\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAugust 6 @ 7:00 PM\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nFree Admission\n\n\n/\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nSeries:\n\n\n\n\nAES Rock/Pop Series \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nGenre:\n\n\n\n\nRock/Blues/Soul/R&B \n\n\n\n\n\n\nHailing from Haleiwa\, HI.\nOne of thirteen children.\nThis award-winning artist brings a unique soulful-honest-songwriting style to the stage. Performing all original music and energizing audiences all across the globe.\nYou’ll be sure to leave the experience feeling loved\, electrified and pondering the lyrics. \nProjects Unlimited & Wyse Family Foundation Gem Series Opener: KELLEN WILLIAMS
URL:https://downtowndayton.org/event/ron-artis-ii/
LOCATION:Levitt Pavilion Dayton\, 134 S. Main St.\, Dayton\, OH\, 45402
CATEGORIES:Art in the City 2026
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://downtowndayton.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/ronartis.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260806T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260806T200000
DTSTAMP:20260714T133734
CREATED:20260603T132650Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260603T132650Z
UID:10058328-1786035600-1786046400@downtowndayton.org
SUMMARY:Collage Night
DESCRIPTION:Come get creative in a relaxed\, welcome space–no experience necessary! We’ll provide materials\, or feel free to bring your own. Whether you’re an experienced artist or just looking to unwind and try something new\, this night is all about making\, experimenting\, and connecting with others through art. Free .
URL:https://downtowndayton.org/event/collage-night-2/2026-08-06/
LOCATION:The Contemporary Dayton\, 25 W. Fourth St.\, Dayton\, OH\, 45402\, United States
CATEGORIES:Art in the City 2026
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://downtowndayton.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/collage.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260806T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260806T183000
DTSTAMP:20260714T133734
CREATED:20260528T135659Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260528T141019Z
UID:10056348-1786035600-1786041000@downtowndayton.org
SUMMARY:RiverScape Stroll
DESCRIPTION:RiverScape Stroll\, every Thursday\, 5-6:30 pm\, Main Library: Walk from the Main Library to RiverScape MetroPark\, connecting with the Great Miami River Recreation Trail and return. Meet in the Main Library’s Atrium. All Ages
URL:https://downtowndayton.org/event/riverscape-stroll/2026-08-06/
LOCATION:Dayton Metro Library – Main Library\, 215 E. Third Street\, Dayton\, OH\, 45402
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://downtowndayton.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/dml.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260806T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260806T140000
DTSTAMP:20260714T133734
CREATED:20260526T195601Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260526T195601Z
UID:10056303-1786017600-1786024800@downtowndayton.org
SUMMARY:CURIO at Courthouse Square
DESCRIPTION:Free entertainment in the heart of downtown\nThroughout the summer months\, fun\, out-of-the-box entertainment can be found on Courthouse Square\, with CURIO serving as the hub of community\, connection\, and collaboration! \nBig ideas can come in small packages\, and CURIO is the first step in a larger\, longer-term plan to revitalize Courthouse Square. This shipping container transformed into an event hub has been combined with fun outdoor seating and other touches to create downtown’s newest summer hotspot! \nFIND THE CALENDAR OF SCHEDULED ENTERTAINMENT HERE:\nhttps://downtowndayton.org/things-to-do/curio/#schedule \nBring your friends and coworkers for a midday break outside!\nCURIO features free lunchtime entertainment from noon to 2 p.m. on Tuesdays\, Wednesdays\, and Thursdays each week during the summer months. \nFood vendors also set up on Courthouse Square each weekday\, allowing downtown workers and others to grab lunch from a vendor or a downtown restaurant and take in the entertainment while enjoying the outdoors downtown. \nBe sure to “Like” CURIO at Courthouse Square on Facebook to get the latest updates on upcoming entertainment and more. You can also request to receive regular emails about what’s planned for CURIO. \nIf you are interested in performing on the Square or would like more information about CURIO\, email events@downtowndayton.org. \nCURIO at Courthouse Square is a program of the Downtown Dayton Partnership\, with support from Montgomery County.
URL:https://downtowndayton.org/event/curio-at-courthouse-square/2026-08-06/
LOCATION:Courthouse Square\, Third & Main Streets\, Dayton\, OH\, 45422\, USA
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://downtowndayton.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/curiocal-1.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260806
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260807
DTSTAMP:20260714T133734
CREATED:20260714T172243Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260714T172312Z
UID:10059640-1785974400-1786060799@downtowndayton.org
SUMMARY:Future Is Now X Museum Group Exhibition
DESCRIPTION:Future Is Now X Museum presents its inaugural Group Exhibition\, an eight-day multimedia event uniting 154 visual artists\, live musicians\, DJ performers\, and digital innovators at 118 N. Jefferson St. and 40 N. Ludlow St. in downtown Dayton. Running July 31 through August 7\, 2026\, the exhibition is curator Kimyon Huggins’ first Dayton production since leaving for New York City in 1998\, channeling thirty years of practice at the intersection of art\, music\, and technology back into the city where it began. Born from the FUTUREISNOWX Sunday livestream series launched in October 2020\, Edition 01 brings together physical works\, curated video installations from 250+ archived broadcasts\, site-specific murals created live during the exhibition\, and one weekend of DJ and live performance. Painters and muralists paint large-scale works on site throughout the eight days\, documented by stop-motion video and streamed globally at futureisnowx.com. \nKeynote: Al Díaz — Co-Creator of SAMO© with Jean-Michel Basquiat\nAl Díaz is one of the first artists featured on FUTUREISNOWX and serves as keynote speaker for Edition 01. Co-creator of the SAMO© campaign with Jean-Michel Basquiat (1978–80)\, Díaz is a pioneering graffiti writer whose current practice transforms MTA subway signage letters into anagram installations in stations across New York City. At Edition 01 he participates in an artist Q+A\, panel discussion\, and live painting at 118 N. Jefferson St.\nConfirmed Muralist — Cern (Cernesto)\nNew York City-based visual artist\, musician\, and former graffiti writer active since the early 1990s. Born in Queens\, based in Brooklyn. Known for large-scale murals and cooperative installations featuring women\, animals\, and abstract forms — a smooth\, blended style with clearly defined edges. Exhibited at the San Diego Museum of Art\, Museu Brasileiro de Escultura in São Paulo\, MOCA Los Angeles\, and URBAN NATION Museum in Berlin.\nVisual Artists — 154 Artists. One Platform.\nEdition 01 presents artists working across painting\, muralism\, installation\, public art\, photography\, abstraction\, portraiture\, and experimental practice\, drawing from Dayton\, New York City\, Detroit\, Chicago\, Atlanta\, Los Angeles\, and international communities. Featured artists include Al Diaz\, Pablo Power\, Kimyon333\, Ellis Gallagher\, Cern\, Gabe Specter\, La Femme Cheri\, Konstance Patton\, Kirby Santos\, Ian Cinco\, Rene Lerude\, Smurfo\, Allison Ruiz\, Kosuke James\, Came Moreno\, Vane Russo\, Praxis\, Alice Gypsy Queen\, Freehumanity\, Will Power\, Alanna Vanacore\, Molly Snee\, Emily Salk\, Technodrome\, Chris Soria\, M-Dot Season\, Bil Tipton\, Mr. Champagne\, Taliaferro Sebastian\, and 20 Dayton artists. \nOpening Weekend: \nFRIDAY\, JULY 31 | 2026\n118 N. Jefferson St. | 12PM – 9PM\nDJs and live paintings starting at 12PM. Featured Artist: CERN\nDJs: Jacqueline Farrara + OGC + Special Guests.\nPainters: TBA.\n7PM – Ignite Salon: Inspiration in the Age of Social Media | CERN\, Max Watts\, Sugar\, 5tr8tch\, Fatty Lumpkin\n40 N. Ludlow St. | 7PM – 2:30AM\nMax Watts Live (Detroit)\, 5tr8tch (LA)\, Plural Live (Detroit)\, Sugar (Detroit)\, Fatty Lumpkin (Dayton)\n+Special Guests \nSATURDAY\, AUGUST 1st\n118 N. Jefferson St. | 12PM – 9PM\nDJs and live painting from 12PM. Featured Artist: CERN\nDJs: Jacqueline Farrara + Sugar + Special Guests. Painters: TBA.\n5PM – The Landscape of Urban Contemporary Art with Al Díaz\n8PM – Special Performance: Dayton Dance Initiative presents Parola. Choreographed by Macy Perry\, an excerpt from the company’s 2026 season\, The Light In Between. Four women move as a collective body\, transforming repetition into ritual and exploring themes of rage\, instinct\, and feminine power. Performed by Jasmine Getz\, Niarra Gooden-Clarke\, Celeste Kennington\, and KC Lyphout.\n40 N. Ludlow St. | 7PM – 2:30AM\nFBK Live (Columbus)\, Max Watts (Detroit)\, Leftside (NY)\, Salar Ansari (Detroit)\, Rechulski (NY)\, Kimyon333 (NY)\nSUNDAY\, AUGUST 2 | 12PM – 10PM\nFUTUREISNOWX Livestream. DJs + Live Painting 12PM.\nDJs: J(Redacted)\, Barry Leonhard + Special Guests.\nPainters: Al Díaz and more TBA.\nLivestream 4-10PM: J(Redacted)\, Barry Leonhard\, OGC\, Kimyon333 \nFRIDAY\, AUGUST 7 | 4PM – 10PM | CLOSING PARTY\nKimyon333 (NY)\, OGC (Dayton)\, Gunner (Dayton) Tanker.Edu (Columbus)\nPerforming Artists\nMax Watts (Detroit): Founder of Limited Network — a Detroit-based label and collective distributed by the legendary Submerge camp — Max Watts brings an archivist’s taste beyond his years and mixes it with an urgent spontaneity that has earned him a global following. Watts performs as part of Search Party\, a live PA alongside Kasan Belgrave\, Julien P.\, and Allen Dennard\, and has appeared at NYC’s Nowadays\, Public Records\, and Tresor Berlin. His music is rooted in old-school Detroit but speaks a universal language.\nSalar Ansari (Detroit): Born in Tehran and based in Detroit since 2015\, Salar Ansari is a multi-disciplinary artist\, producer\, and educator whose work bridges electronic music\, sound engineering\, and community building across continents. A 2021 Detroit Music Award winner for Best Electronic Album and a 2026 Kresge Artist Fellow in music composition and performance\, one of Detroit’s most prestigious arts fellowships\, carrying a $50\,000 award. Ansari is a co-founder of Feeder Loft with Grammy-winning musician Luis Resto and co-founder of Analog Room\, an international music residency spanning Iran and the UAE. His productions appear on Blue Note Records\, and his reach as an educator extends to the Interlochen Arts Academy and the University of Michigan.\nPlural (Detroit): Metroplex recording artist James Johnson\, recently relocated from Columbus to Detroit\, whose deep ties to the Motor City’s techno lineage are matched by a prolific live and production practice.\nFBK (Columbus): Kevin Kennedy\, producing and performing since 1988\, mentored by Daniel Bell and Anthony ‘Shake’ Shakir\, with releases on Rekids\, Frictional\, and Knotweed.\n5tr8tch (Los Angeles): Owner of NoNonsense Records\, a DTLA-based shop at 453 S. Spring St. specializing in electronic music and built on the ethos of made for DJs by DJs\, 5tr8tch is also the organizer of large-scale free outlaw parties throughout downtown Los Angeles and a defining force in the city’s independent underground dance music scene.\nSugar (Detroit): A Detroit-area DJ and producer rooted in old-school house and techno\, Sugar is a fixture in the Motor City underground\, regularly appearing alongside artists from the Limited Network and Humidex Records camps.\nLeftside (NY): A New York-based DJ and selector with deep roots in underground house and techno\, Leftside has been a trusted voice in NYC’s dance music scene across more than two decades of consistent programming.\nFatty Lumpkin (Dayton): A Dayton-based DJ and cultural connector whose sets span house\, techno\, and beyond\, Fatty Lumpkin is a longtime presence in the city’s underground music community.\nRechulski (NYC): Founder of NYC artist collective\, label and 24 hour parties Sheik ‘N’ Beik\, and Okeechobee Music & Arts Festival.\nBarry Leonhard: WYSO Yellow Springs weekly Club Cuts Dance Music show coordinator.\nJacqueline Farrara: DJ and poet from New York. Wavefarm Radio resident.\nOGC: Racks N Jacks resident crew producing events in and around the Dayton area.
URL:https://downtowndayton.org/event/future-is-now-x-museum-group-exhibition/2026-08-06/
LOCATION:118 N. Jefferson St.\, 118 N. Jefferson St.\, Dayton\, OH\, 45402
CATEGORIES:Art in the City 2026
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://downtowndayton.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/finx.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260806
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260807
DTSTAMP:20260714T133734
CREATED:20260616T144522Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260616T145631Z
UID:10059449-1785974400-1786060799@downtowndayton.org
SUMMARY:Liz Quay\, Jayne Struble\, and Kathy McGhee Art Exhibits
DESCRIPTION:The Sinclair Community College Art Department is pleased to present “Marks & Stitches” by Liz Quay & Jayne Struble in the Burnell R. Roberts Triangle Gallery along with “Printed Landscapes” by Kathy McGhee in the Works on Paper Gallery. Through the collaborative lens of “Marks & Stitches” Struble and Quay delve into the connections found in nature and the human body. Their collaboration is an exploration of the invisible ties that bind humanity together and highlight the beauty of interconnectedness. Struble’s graphite drawings of the landscape investigate the way visual artifacts\, such as images\, are a tangible yet fragile representation of one’s memories\, while Quay explores the tension and stagnation that is generated through managing emotional balance through fiber art and experimental sculpture. McGhee’s “Printed Landscapes” utilizes a variety of printmaking techniques to capture intimate moments of beauty in the landscape and explore the relationships between plants and the places they exist. She is inspired not only by the experience of being in nature but also by the visual patterns created through line\, texture\, and color as organisms naturally coexist. There will be a virtual artist talk via Zoom on Friday\, July 10\, 2026\, at 12pm. Visit www.sinclair.edu/artgalleries for details. The exhibitions will be on display from July 6–August 14\, 2026. Galleries are located on the fourth floor of building 13 (located at West Fifth and South Perry Streets). The galleries are free and open to the public from 8am–6pm Monday–Friday and 9am–12pm Saturdays. Free and accessible parking is located in Parking Lot K.
URL:https://downtowndayton.org/event/liz-quay-jayne-struble-and-kathy-mcghee-art-exhibits/2026-08-06/
LOCATION:Galleries at Sinclair College\, 444 W. Third St.\, Bldg. 13\, Dayton\, OH\, 45402
CATEGORIES:Art in the City 2026
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://downtowndayton.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/sinclairjulyaug26.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260806
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260807
DTSTAMP:20260714T133734
CREATED:20260603T141236Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260603T141236Z
UID:10059340-1785974400-1786060799@downtowndayton.org
SUMMARY:Niki Johnson: Pillars of Democracy
DESCRIPTION:The Contemporary Dayton is proud to present Niki Johnson: Pillars of Democracy\, a series of four large-scale collaged portraits envisioning Liberty\, Justice\, Freedom\, and Forward as first-time voters from Milwaukee. Set across Wisconsin landscapes at dawn\, midday\, dusk\, and night\, the works reflect how democratic values are lived\, protected\, and renewed at the local level. \nConstructed from discarded stencil paper and leftover spray paint collected during the 2020 installation of Shepard Fairey’s Voting Rights Are Human Rights mural\, the series bridges more than a century of voting rights activism through both material and design. Inspired in part by Bertha Boyd’s 1911 suffrage poster Votes for Women\, the works foreground the central role of women in democracy\, from early suffragists to first-time voters today\, uniting generations through civic participation and creative resistance. \nBuilt collaboratively over ten months with the support of Milwaukee artists and community volunteers\, Pillars of Democracy reminds us that democracy is not abstract\, but rather something we actively build\, sustain\, and strengthen through everyday acts of participation\, dialogue\, and collective care. \nPresented during The Contemporary Dayton’s 35th anniversary season\, the exhibition reflects our ongoing commitment to freedom of expression and to creating space for artistic inquiry\, civic engagement\, and public dialogue. \nJohnson is a Milwaukee-based artist\, curator\, and Executive Director of the Forward Art Initiative. She earned her BFA from the University of Memphis and her MA/MFA in Studio Art from the University of Wisconsin–Madison. Her work is included in the collection of the Dayton Art Institute and has been reviewed in publications including The New York Times\, The Guardian\, Hyperallergic\, and Vice Magazine. \n\n\n\n\n\n\nOPENING NIGHT / Wednesday\, July 1\nMember & Sponsor Preview: 5-6 pm \nPublic Reception: 6-8 pm \nArtist Talk: 6:30 pm
URL:https://downtowndayton.org/event/niki-johnson-pillars-of-democracy-2/2026-08-06/
LOCATION:The Contemporary Dayton\, 25 W. Fourth St.\, Dayton\, OH\, 45402\, United States
CATEGORIES:Art in the City 2026
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://downtowndayton.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/johnson.jpg
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DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260806
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260807
DTSTAMP:20260714T133734
CREATED:20260603T140236Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260603T140236Z
UID:10059297-1785974400-1786060799@downtowndayton.org
SUMMARY:All the World’s a Stage
DESCRIPTION:May 16–August 9\, 2026\, Gallery 117   \nAcross cultures\, the performing arts—drama\, dance\, music—have entertained and educated\, bringing people together in communal spaces to celebrate and question what it means to be human. Along the way\, visual arts have depicted performers and performances\, commemorating and giving semi-permanent form to temporal acts\, from records of sacred rituals to portraits of leading actors. \nAt the same time\, performance extends beyond the stage to the world\, becoming a metaphor for our lives and how we interact with others. As we form our individual identities\, we play a variety of roles in a range of social settings at different points in life\, all while we serve as the audience of others. Drawing together a range of artworks from the DAI collection\, this exhibition shines a spotlight on performers across the ages and how they\, in turn\, may shape the ways we act.
URL:https://downtowndayton.org/event/all-the-worlds-a-stage/2026-08-06/
LOCATION:The Dayton Art Institute\, 456 Belmonte Park N\, Dayton\, OH\, 45405\, United States
CATEGORIES:Art in the City 2026
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://downtowndayton.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/stage.jpg
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DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260806
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260807
DTSTAMP:20260714T133734
CREATED:20260603T135940Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260603T135940Z
UID:10059275-1785974400-1786060799@downtowndayton.org
SUMMARY:Exploring Feminism
DESCRIPTION:February 7\, 2026–January 31\, 2027\, Gallery 118 \nFeminism feels like a loaded term that\, when presented to people\, often triggers a gut reaction that it is positive or negative. But what actually is feminism? Presenting feminist artwork from the newly acquired Sara M. and Michelle Vance Waddell Collection\, this three-part\, rotating exhibition will demystify the origins\, history and commitments of the feminist movement. \nOften discussed in terms of waves\, feminism has signified struggles for a range of causes at varying moments in time. Through Exploring Feminism\, guests may become better acquainted with cycles of protest\, self-expression and community-building for a movement that has continued to change and adapt to include more and different constituents within its umbrella of “feminists.” \nNo bras will be burned (and\, in fact\, never were) for this new exhibition featuring regional\, national and international artists working in all manner of media.
URL:https://downtowndayton.org/event/exploring-feminism/2026-08-06/
LOCATION:The Dayton Art Institute\, 456 Belmonte Park N\, Dayton\, OH\, 45405\, United States
CATEGORIES:Art in the City 2026
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://downtowndayton.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/exfem.jpg
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