Downtown Dayton Partnership

The Hot Wing King
2026-06-13 19:30, 2026-06-12 19:30 (America/New_York) | The Human Race Theatre Company, 126 N. Main St., Dayton, OH, 45402
JUNE 3 – 14, 2026
The Hot Wing King
Playwright: Katori Hall
Director: Darnell Pierre Benjamin
It’s time for the annual “Hot Wang Festival” in Memphis Tennessee, and Cordell Crutchfield knows he has the wings that’ll make him king. Supported by his beau Dwayne and their culinary clique, The New Wing Order, Cordell is marinating and firing up his frying pan in a bid to reclaim the crispy crown. When Dwayne takes in his troubled nephew, however, it becomes a recipe for disaster. Suddenly a first-place trophy isn’t the only thing Cordell risks losing.
Recommended if you liked… Barbecue; A Distinct Society
Buy Tickets

Dayton Dragons vs. Fort Wayne TinCaps
2026-06-13 19:05, 2026-06-12 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.

Slapbak with Opener The Groove Essentials
2026-06-13 19:00 | Levitt Pavilion Dayton, 134 S. Main St., Dayton, OH, 45402
Slapbak

June 13 @ 7:00 PM

Free Admission

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Series:

Montgomery County Funk/R&B Series

Genre:

Funk

Slapbak is a high-energy Funk band with influences from Hip Hop and Rock/Alternative. Slapbak’s leader Jara Harris started this band in the 90s and has been producing Slapbak’s music as well as working with other amazing artists. The band also includes includes his daughter Jaz Harris on guitar and his wife Alyse Harris on keyboards. As well as TJ Quake on vocals & rap, Gus Day on guitar, Jesse Conlee on drums & vocals, MaryLiz on vocals
Jara Harris is multi instrument prodigy that is the founder of international recording artist Slapbak. He is currently touring with Donavon Frankenreiter and working on the first Slapbak record in 10 years. But last he had a life detour when he was diagnosed with stage 4 Head and Neck cancer. He’s also worked with Michael Buble’ on 2 Christmas records. In the past he’s worked with artists like Randy Jackson, Jose Feliciano, The Time, Digital Underground, Dazz Band, Snoop Dogg, Jordin Sparks, 112, Koshi Inaba, Devon Allman.
Projects Unlimited & Wyse Family Foundation Gem Series Opener: THE GROOVE ESSENTIALS

Dayton Sideshow 19
2026-06-13 17:00, 2026-06-12 18:00 | Yellow Cab Tavern, 700 E 4th St, Dayton, OH, 45402, United States
The annual free art and music festival, Dayton Sideshow, returns! Featuring music, art, vendors and more!
All agesFree!!
Artists:
Holly WyssMisty BankheadBen HermanRebecca RowleyDaniel HoodAriel WhiteJosh BaskinSamantha FarkasDJ JusticeNatasha UnderwoodEmma AbernathySteven Wuebker
Music Lineup:
Friday June 126-6:40pm Daddy & The Bandit7-7:40pm The Working Poor8-8:40pm Choice Words9-9:40pm Rude Scholar10-10:40pm The Special Dark11-11:40pm Cymatic12-1am ElectroCult CircusSaturday June 135-5:40pm Keowee Reload6-6:40pm Intergalactic Space Force7-7:40pm T. Kao8-8:40pm Dayton Poetry Slam9-9:40pm Sad Box10-10:40pm She’s Deadly11-11:40pm Mayliner12-1am Paid Leave

Guided Tours
2026-06-13 14:00 | The Contemporary Dayton, 25 W. Fourth St., Dayton, OH, 45402, United States
Join us for an inside look at the exhibition, with fresh insights into the artist and their work. FREE and open to all.
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1981877243185?aff=oddtdtcreator

Blue and Beyond: a Cyanotype Workshop with Suzi Hyden
2026-06-13 12:00 - 15:00 | Dayton Society of Artists, 48 High Street, Dayton, OH, 45402, United States
Curious about cyanotype? Join us for an introduction to this historic photographic process, where light and chemistry come together to create striking, image-based prints.
In this hands-on workshop, participants will explore both foundational and expanded cyanotype techniques. We’ll be working with high-quality Hahnemühle 300gsm watercolor paper and pre-treated fabric sheets, with a focus on elevating the process through hand-coating and experimental toning. Using materials like tea, coffee, and red wine, we’ll shift traditional blue tones into a range of sepia, slate, and deep eggplant hues.
Whether you’re new to cyanotype or looking to push the process further, this session offers a supportive environment to experiment and explore.
Logistics & Flow:
This workshop will follow a 3-hour staggered format to allow for movement between processes. Indoors, we’ll use a dimmed area for hand-coating paper and set up a toning station during the final hour. Outdoors, we’ll take advantage of natural sunlight for exposures, along with a rinse station and temporary drying line for finished prints.
Date: Saturday, June 13, 12-3PM
In the event of rain on June 13, the workshop will be held on the backup date of June 14 from 12–3 PM.
REGISTRATION IS OPEN UNTIL JUNE 6. Please register in advance to secure your spot.
Location:
The Dayton Society of Artists
48 High Street
Dayton, Ohio. 45403
Cost:
Non-Members – $75
Members – $55
Pre-registration Required
About your Instructor:
Suzi Hyden is a cyanotype artist working in rural Champaign County, Ohio, whose work celebrates the environment by combining elements from nature and repurposed materials. She uses local botanicals to create her cyanotypes, commonly known as sun printing or blueprinting. She incorporates recycled vintage fabrics, reused papers, and found objects as the substrates and framing for her cyanotypes. She exhibits throughout Ohio and offers workshops to children and adults.

ASL Family Storytime
2026-06-13 11:00 - 12:00 | Dayton Metro Library – Main Library, 215 E. Third Street, Dayton, OH, 45402
ASL Family Storytime, Saturday, June 13, 11 am-12 pm, Main Library, Children’s Creativity Space: Danny from the Ohio Deaf Friends of the Library will use ASL to tell stories and lead bilingual songs. Families

Family Summer Film Fest
2026-06-13 11:00 | THE NEON, United States
Dayton Metro Library, The NEON, and ThinkTV have partnered again to host the Family Summer Film Fest at The NEON. Families can listen to free stories, watch select PBS Kids shows, and participate in activities. Doors open at 10:30 am, shows begin at 11 am, and tickets are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Schedule:
June 13
You Can Be A Helper: Listen to a reading of Clothesline Clues to Jobs People Do by Kathryn Heling, then watch Daniel Tiger learn that it’s a good feeling to be a helper.
June 20: Use Your Observation Powers
Listen to a reading of A Stone Sat Still by Brendan Wenzel, then explore the powers of observation and perspective with weather hunters.
June 27: Caring for Pets
Listen to a reading of Harry the Dirty Dog by Gene Zion, then learn about caring for pets with Lyla in the Loops and meet puppies from Adopt-A-Pit.
July 11: Let’s Be Friends
Listen to a reading of Bear Came Along by Richard T. Morris, then share the joy as surprising connections blossom into meaningful friendships with Carl the Collector.
July 18: Better Together
Listen to a reading of Swashby and the Sea by Beth Ferry, then follow fraternal twins Phoebe and Jay as they model family, community, and friendship.
July 25: Wild Animals!
Learn about different kinds of birds with The Wild Kratts, then visit with friends from Glen Helen Raptor Center.
The NEON is located at 130 E. 5th Street in downtown Dayton. Free ground-level parking is located across the street from the cinema’s front doors. The Family Summer Film Fest is sponsored by Dyer, Garofalo, Mann & Schultz and FLOC (For Love of Children), with additional support from Montgomery County. For more information, visit neonmovies.com/family-summer-film-fest-2026 or call the Library’s Ask Me Line at 937.463.2665.

TED Democracy Philadelphia: Founding Futures Livestream
2026-06-13 10:30 - 18:00 | Dayton Metro Library – Main Library, 215 E. Third Street, Dayton, OH, 45402
Dayton Metro Library will host TED Democracy Philadelphia: Founding Futures Livestream, Saturday, June 13, 10:30 am-6 pm, in the Main Library’s Eichelberger Forum. Approximately 15 new TED Talks focusing on the evolution and future of democracy will be livestreamed to DML from Philadelphia. This day-long symposium will be divided into three sessions with breaks in between. TED Topics will range from media literacy and race to the intersection of AI and democracy, economic equity, and more. This event is in conjunction with DML’s America 250 programming, ideal for adult patrons, and is sponsored by the Charles F. Kettering Foundation. Registration required. For a list of tentative TED speakers, more information, and to register, visit DaytonMetroLibrary.org or call the Library’s Ask Me Line at 937.463.2665.

Oregon Historic District Garden Tour
2026-06-13 10:00 - 14:00 | Oregon District, Fifth Street, Dayton, OH, 45402
The Oregon Historic District Society (OHDS) is hosting a Garden Tour on Saturday, June 13th from 10am-2pm. Step into the charm and beauty of the Oregon Historic District residential neighborhood during the Summer 2026 Garden Tour. Enjoy a self-guided stroll through vibrant private gardens and explore the natural beauty that makes the Oregon District neighborhood so unique. Each garden celebrates their own garden style. Step through gates and side paths of this neighborhood garden tour, and you’ll discover that beauty here isn’t measured by square footage – it’s tucked into every corner, layered with care, and shaped by imagination. Some yards are delightfully small, yet they unfold like living mosaics. Narrow beds brim with perennials, herbs spill over edging stones, and climbing vines make full use of fences and trellises. These intimate spaces feel curated and personal, where every plant has a purpose and every inch tells a story. Other gardens remain hidden from the street, revealed only to those who wander in. Behind modest facades lie lush retreats – quiet courtyards, shaded nooks, and surprising bursts of color. These are the gardens that feel like secrets, offering a sense of discovery as you move from one to the next. This tour is a celebration of creativity and everyday beauty, showing how even the smallest or most hidden spaces can become vibrant, welcoming sanctuaries. Sign up through Eventbrite at this link: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/oregon-historic-district-garden-tour-tickets-1989431528255?aff=oddtdtcreator Tickets are $20 and can be purchased in advance or the day of the event. Checks may be made payable to “Oregon Historic District Society” and mailed to: OHDS, Inc., PO Box 383, Dayton OH 45401 www.oregonhistoric.org | oregonhistoricdistrict@gmail.com

Meet the Team
2026-06-13 10:00 - 12:00 | Day Air Ballpark, 220 North Patterson Blvd., Dayton, OH, 45402
The Dayton Dragons will host their 2026 “Meet the Team” event on Saturday, June 13 at Day Air Ballpark in the heart of the Water Street District. The event will begin with the opening of gates at 10:00 am and run until 12:00 pm. The “Meet the Team” event will be the first of two fan events hosted by the Dragons in 2026 at Day Air Ballpark.
Fans will be able to meet the 2026 Dayton Dragons roster for autographs and photos. There will be player and coach-led activities on the field and kids can also run the bases. Heater, Gem, Blaze and the Green Team will be on hand with more Dragons fun. Concessions will be open for food, and the Dragons Den will be open for purchase of Dragons gear.
Tickets can be purchased now. Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for children. Season Ticket Members will receive their tickets digitally on their accounts or printed with their season tickets. Their entrance will be free of charge.
Tickets can be purchased at this link: https://www.gofevo.com/event/Meettheteam2026
Learn more about the Meet the Team Event at www.daytondragons.com/meettheteam.

Sculpt with Speakeasy
2026-06-13 10:00 - 11:00 | RiverScape MetroPark, 237 E Monument Ave, Dayton, OH, 45402, United States
Part of Fitness in the Park series
Sculpt with Speakeasy
10:00am – 11:00am
AGE: All ages | FREE

Sculpt is a low-impact, high-intensity full body workout that combines elements of barre, Pilates, and various body weight exercises taught by M’Le of Speakeasy Yoga. Each class is set to an upbeat playlist and led by the rhythm to keep you inspired every step of the way. Whether youâre a seasoned fitness fanatic or just getting started, all levels are welcome and will enjoy a well-rounded fitness experience! Remember to bring your own mat, water bottle, and towels. Weather Dependent.
Enjoy fun, effective and FREE outdoor workouts under the pavilion with Speakeasy Yoga instructors. No registration required. All ages welcome. Presented by Kettering Health.

Summer Band Series
2026-06-13 08:00 - 17:00 | The Dayton Beer Company, 41 Madison St., Dayton, OH, 45402
Join us for some summer fun with bands in the Biergarten every other Saturday all summer long!
Bi Weekly Saturdays from May – September 7-10pm
5/16: Different and the Same
6/13: The Wayward J
6/27: Ethan Timm
7/11: The Bowl Cuts
7/25: Ollie’s Acoustic Jam
8/8: Different and the Same
8/22: Ben & Pete
9/12: The Bowl Cuts
9/19: No Refunds
9/26: Chris Yakopcic

absence
2026-06-13, 2026-06-12 | Edward A. Dixon Gallery, 222 N. St. Clair St., Dayton, OH, 45402
“absence” can have many meanings in this upcoming show featuring artwork from Weiting Wei, Christa Kimble and Ann Silverman. The Public Reception is on Friday, June 12th from 6pm-8pm. The exhibition is open from June 11 – July 24th A small collection of Marilyn Monroe artwork will also be on view in Suite B1 of the gallery to commemorate the 100th Birthday of the pop and cultural icon from artists Bill Mack, Cynthia Kukla and Fatima Taylor. The exhibition is open from June 11th – June 24th.

Member’s Spotlight Exhibition: Simon Robins: Sociable
2026-06-13 | The Contemporary Dayton, 25 W. Fourth St., Dayton, OH, 45402, United States
June 5-27, 2026 Opening Reception: June 5, 6-8 pm The paintings in Simon Robins: Sociable, contain imagery sourced from public domain and found photographs discovered through extensive research by the artist in digital archives. Cropping, recoloring, and recontextualizing these images, Robins transforms fragments of anonymous histories into works that feel at once familiar and elusive. Robins’ practice is deeply informed by his work as a collections librarian and faculty member at University of Dayton, where he regularly navigates institutional archives and historical image collections. By removing photographs from their original context, his paintings invite viewers to reconsider how images shape collective memory and how archives reflect systems of power, inclusion, and omission. In these works, Robins explores themes of social alienation, belonging, and the quiet tensions embedded within everyday interactions. His paintings evoke the visual language of post-war photography and design while raising timely questions about authorship, historical bias, and the lingering influence of institutional narratives. Through carefully composed and psychologically charged imagery, Robins creates space for reflection on the ways people connect, observe, and exist within larger social structures. About the Artist: Originally from Portland, Oregon and now based in Dayton, Simon Robins has exhibited his work at the Dayton Society of Artists, Rosewood Arts Center, and The Contemporary Dayton. In 2025, he received First Place in the Dayton Society of Artists Annual Members’ Exhibition and Second Place in The Contemporary Dayton’s Juried Members’ Exhibition. Robins earned a BA in History and Art History from Portland State University and a Master of Library and Information Studies from University of British Columbia. He currently works as a collections librarian and faculty member at the University of Dayton, where his engagement with digital archives directly informs his artistic practice.

“The Faces of Pride” photos by Rick Flynn presented by The Dayton Society of Artist
2026-06-13 | The North Arcade Gallery, 24 W. Third St., Dayton, OH, 45402
Faces of Pride Join us for a special reception for Faces of Pride, a powerful and evolving exhibition celebrating the diversity of the LGBTQ+ community in the Dayton and Miami Valley region. Artist Trading Cards Community Project Led by Joy Johnson, this interactive project invites attendees to create and exchange artist trading cards, offering a creative way to share identity, expression, and connection. Reception: Friday, June 5, 2026 5:00–7:00 PM Location: North Arcade Gallery Exhibition Dates: May 22 – July 4, 2026 Free and open to the public. Light refreshments will be provided. Exhibition Statement Faces of Pride was designed to showcase the diversity within the LGBTQ+ community in the Dayton/Miami Valley area of Ohio. This project is a living, breathing reflection of community and will continue to grow as long as individuals choose to participate and share their stories. Presented in partnership with the Greater Dayton LGBT Center and Dayton Metro Library, with support from the Montgomery County Arts and Cultural District. Exhibition runs May 22-July 3, 2026 Hours W-F 10-6PM and Saturday 9-3PM.

The Future of Female
2026-06-13 | Dayton Society of Artists, 48 High Street, Dayton, OH, 45402, United States
The Dayton Society of Artists (DSA) is proud to present The Future of Female, a juried exhibition highlighting the perspectives, experiences, and voices of women-identifying artists. This exhibition brings together a diverse range of work across mediums, styles, and approaches—offering a thoughtful exploration of identity, presence, and creative expression in contemporary practice.

Threads of History: Quilts by Carolyn Mazloomi
2026-06-13 | The Contemporary Dayton, 25 W. Fourth St., Dayton, OH, 45402, United States
June 12-September 12, 2026
Threads of History: Quilts by Carolyn Mazloomi is a landmark solo exhibition by award-winning artist, historian, and curator Dr. Carolyn Mazloomi. Now an octogenarian, Mazloomi remains one of the most visionary leaders in contemporary quilting, widely recognized for her lifelong efforts to elevate African American quilt traditions. Her striking black-and-white quilts memorialize the lives and legacies of African American freedom fighters, capturing resilience, resistance, and remembrance through bold imagery and layered narrative. Originally trained as an aerospace engineer, Mazloomi shifted her focus in the 1980s to advocate for African American quilt artists whose contributions had long been marginalized. Through her scholarship, mentorship, and the founding of the Women of Color Quilters Network, she has transformed the cultural landscape, bringing international recognition to quilting as both fine art and historical record. Her extraordinary impact has been recognized with numerous honors, including the Bess Lomax Hawes NEA National Heritage Fellowship, a United States Artists Fellowship, and an American Craft Council Honorary Fellowship. Her work is held in major collections, including the Smithsonian Institution and the American Folk Art Museum. Opening Reception: June 12, 2026, 6-8 p.m.

Elisha Frontz, Roxanne Grooms, and Yuji Hiratsuka Exhibits
2026-06-13 | Galleries at Sinclair College, 444 W. Third St., Bldg. 13, Dayton, OH, 45402
The Sinclair Community College Art Department is pleased to present “Spontaneous Connection” by Elisha Frontz & Roxanne Grooms in the Burnell R. Roberts Triangle Gallery along with “Tell Tale Personal Narrative” by Yuji Hiratsuka in the Works on Paper Gallery. Inspired by the inherent order and balance found in the universe, Frontz draws on the complexity and beauty of systems and patterns found in both the natural world and mathematics. Her mixed media work juxtaposes strong geometric shapes against delicate natural forms. Grooms’s non-representational mixed media works contrast the strong dynamic geometry of a circle against its softness. The circle becomes a character amongst rich earthly hues anchored by nurturing stitches or twisted threads, which invite the viewer to use their imagination to play along. Hiratsuka’s intaglio prints explore the co-existence of eastern and western influences in Japanese culture. Taking inspiration from Ukiyo-e prints his work contains decorative, bright colors and highly-stylized, exaggerated and distorted figures, all executed through a modern lens. There will be a virtual artist talk via Zoom Friday, June 12, 2026, at 12pm. Visit www.sinclair.edu/artgalleries for details. The exhibitions will be on display from May 16 – June 25, 2026. Galleries are located on the fourth floor of building 13 (located at West Fifth and 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.

Friday Night Karaoke at Two Social
2026-06-12 22:00 | Two Social, 123 E. Third St., Dayton, OH, 45402
The weekend just got louder — step into the spotlight at Two Social’s Friday Night Karaoke, Dayton’s best late-night sing-along happening every single week in the heart of downtown. Every Friday night, DJ Blake from Limelight Entertainment transforms Two Social into Dayton’s premier karaoke destination. Whether you’re a seasoned performer or finally working up the nerve to take the mic, the professional sound system and massive song library make sure you always sound your best. Pick your song, put your name on the list, and let the night take it from there. Key Details: – When: Every Friday night – Time: 10:00 PM – 1:00 AM – Where: Two Social, 123 E 3rd Street, Downtown Dayton, OH 45402 – Cost: FREE — no cover charge – Host: DJ Blake / Limelight Entertainment – Age: 21+ after 9:00 PM (valid ID required) – Includes: Professional sound system, massive song library, full bar, late-night arcade How to Attend: No reservations needed — just show up! Tables and bar seating are first-come, first-served. Arrive early if you want to throw axes (lanes close at 10:00 PM when karaoke begins). To book an axe throwing lane before the show, visit 2socialdayton.com. Frequently Asked Questions: Q: Is there a cover charge? A: Nope! Friday Night Karaoke is completely free to attend. Q: Do I need a reservation? A: No reservations needed for karaoke. Just walk in, grab a drink, and put your name on the list with DJ Blake. Q: Is this event 21+? A: Two Social is 21+ after 9:00 PM on Friday nights. Please bring a valid ID. Q: What time does karaoke start? A: Karaoke kicks off at 10:00 PM and runs until 1:00 AM. Q: Can I throw axes and do karaoke on the same night? A: Yes! Axe throwing lanes are open until 10:00 PM. We recommend booking an 8:00 or 8:30 PM lane so you finish right as the party heats up. Q: What kind of songs are available? A: DJ Blake has a massive library spanning classic rock, pop, country, hip-hop, and more. If you can think of it, chances are it’s on the list. Come out this Friday and take the mic — no reservations, no cover, just great vibes in downtown Dayton. https://www.2socialdayton.com/events/karaoke-night

Sound Sculpture Concerts @ The Guild
2026-06-12 20:00 | Dayton Theatre Guild, 430 Wayne Avenue, Dayton, OH, 45410, USA
Michael Bashaw, with members of the Puzzle of Light Ensemble, will present Sound Sculpture concerts at the Dayton Theater Guild – June 12, 13 & 14, 2026. The concerts will feature some new music composed for the Sound Sculptures, as well as some favorites from past concerts. Michael will be joined by musicians Sandy Bashaw, John Taylor and Erich Reith.

Big Band Concert with Central Jazz Big Band
2026-06-12 19:00 - 21:00 | RiverScape MetroPark, 237 E Monument Ave, Dayton, OH, 45402, United States
Part of RiverScape Summer Music Series series
Big Band Concert with Central Jazz Big Band
7:00pm – 9:00pm
AGE: All ages | FREE

Join us under the pavilion as the RiverScape Summer Music Series features a Big Band Concert with Central Jazz Big Band! Swing into a night of timeless music and the lively sounds of the Big Band era as this talented ensemble brings classic swing favorites to life. Whether you love to dance or just sit back and soak in the music, it will be the perfect way to celebrate the golden age of jazz.
During intermission, Gem City Swing will also host a FREE swing dance lesson so you can learn a few moves and hit the dance floor with confidence. Come enjoy the music, the dancing, and a fun night of swing! Weather Dependent.
Bring your lawn chairs and enjoy this FREE live concert, while taking in a spectacular sunset over the Great Miami River. The RiverScape Cafe 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.

The Reverend Peyton’s Big Damn Band
2026-06-12 19:00 | Levitt Pavilion Dayton, 134 S. Main St., Dayton, OH, 45402
The Reverend Peyton’s Big Damn Band

June 12 @ 7:00 PM

Free Admission

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Series:

Rick & Tawnya Stover’s Blues Series

Genre:

Rock/Blues

The Reverend Peyton’s Big Damn Band has performed in 38 countries and 48 states. They have been featured in Rolling Stone Magazine, Living Blues, Elmore, donned the cover of Vintage Guitar Magazine, have been #1 on the Billboard, iTunes and Sirius XM Blues Charts and have been nominated for three Blues Music Awards by the Blues Foundation in Memphis. The Indianapolis Star listed Reverend Peyton as one of the top 25 Hoosier musicians of all time.
Maybe you found the band because of virtuosic guitar playing? Maybe you came for the tent revival style live show? The reasons that brought you here could be extensive, but the reasons that keep bringing people back are HEART. Real, from the heart, music made by people who love music. The Sacramento Bee said, “It’s a group with boundless stockpiles of heart to spare — it cascades throughout every slip-n-slide vintage blues/soul ditty they tear through and croon in every show they play, and they always leave a little behind. The front porch is the church, the church is the dance hall and the dance hall is the river bank — your knees will fail you by the time you figure it all out.”
Often called, “the greatest front-porch blues band in the world” the Big Damn Band is led by Reverend Peyton, who is considered to be the premier finger picker playing today. Rev has earned a reputation as both a singularly compelling performer and a persuasive evangelist for the rootsy, country blues styles that captured his imagination early in life and inspired him and his band to make pilgrimages to Clarksdale, Mississippi to study under such blues masters as T-Model Ford, Robert Belfour and David “Honeyboy” Edwards. Accompanied by Rev’s wife, the washboard virtuoso, Washboard Breezy Peyton, and kept on time by the deep rhythms of Jacob “The Snakob” Powell, Reverend Peyton’s Big Damn Band will leave you clapping, stomping, and singing along every handmade show across the world.
Their new record “Honeysuckle” was produced and recorded by Reverend Peyton and mixed by six time Grammy winner Vance Powell (Chris Stapleton, Jack White). The record features many special guests including gospel music group The McCrary Sisters on the song “Manger”, Blues Music Hall of Famer and Grammy nominated harmonica player Billy Branch who plays on the Blind Lemon Jefferson song “Nell (Prison Cell Blues)”, Grammy award winning and IBMA’s 10-time Fiddle Player of the Year Michael Cleveland plays on “Freeborn Man” and Colton Crawford from The Dead South plays banjo on “The Good Die Young”
“This record is a bit of a return to my roots, a very personal mix of old and new songs that shaped me or that I’m currently shaping. It’s the most acoustic record we’ve made in years, vintage microphones, vintage guitars, vintage recording gear, and alot of me and my national guitar. There is a smattering of Big Damn Band thrown into the mix to spice things up, and a short list of legends that I’ve always dreamed of collaborating with”, said Reverend Peyton.
Projects Unlimited & Wyse Family Foundation Gem Series Opener: PAID LEAVE

Party at the Plaza
2026-06-12 17:30 - 19:30 | Day Air Ballpark, 220 North Patterson Blvd., Dayton, OH, 45402
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!

Downtown Dayton Historic Walking Tours
2026-06-12 17:30 | Dayton Arcade, 35 W. Fourth St., Dayton, OH, 45402
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

Kayak Rentals with Taiters Kayak
2026-06-12 17:00 - 21:00 | OH
Part of RiverScape Kayak Rentals series
Kayak Rentals with Taiters Kayak
5:00pm – 9:00pm
AGE: 10 and up | $15.00, $25.00, $60.00

Paddle 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.
Get out and paddle on the Great Miami River with Taiters Kayak at RiverScape MetroPark!
