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X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Downtown Dayton Partnership
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DTSTART:20260308T070000
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DTSTART:20261101T060000
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260711T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260711T160000
DTSTAMP:20260605T194706
CREATED:20260526T140424Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260526T140424Z
UID:10056257-1783767600-1783785600@downtowndayton.org
SUMMARY:Gem City Luxe Market
DESCRIPTION:More than just a market\, Gem City Luxe Market is a celebration of creativity\, connection\, and community. Each event is designed to spotlight the passion behind independent brands while creating an elevated\, welcoming atmosphere where shoppers can discover one-of-a-kind finds\, support local entrepreneurs\, and experience the vibrant culture of Dayton through curated shopping\, inspiring spaces\, and meaningful interactions.
URL:https://downtowndayton.org/event/gem-city-luxe-market/
LOCATION:Art & Soul Maison\, 14 W. First St.\, Dayton\, OH\, 45402
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://downtowndayton.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/luxe.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260721T190500
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260721T190500
DTSTAMP:20260605T194706
CREATED:20260227T141623Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260227T141623Z
UID:10054892-1784660700-1784660700@downtowndayton.org
SUMMARY:Dayton Dragons vs. Cedar Rapids Kernels
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-cedar-rapids-kernels/2026-07-21/
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;VALUE=DATE:20260801
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260802
DTSTAMP:20260605T194706
CREATED:20260603T135057Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260603T135241Z
UID:10058682-1785542400-1785628799@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-2/2026-08-01/
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;VALUE=DATE:20260801
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260802
DTSTAMP:20260605T194706
CREATED:20260603T135727Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260603T135727Z
UID:10059250-1785542400-1785628799@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/2026-08-01/
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:20260801
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260802
DTSTAMP:20260605T194706
CREATED:20260603T135940Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260603T135940Z
UID:10059272-1785542400-1785628799@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/2026-08-01/
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:20260801
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260802
DTSTAMP:20260605T194706
CREATED:20260603T140236Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260603T140236Z
UID:10059294-1785542400-1785628799@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/2026-08-01/
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:20260801
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260802
DTSTAMP:20260605T194706
CREATED:20260603T141236Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260603T141236Z
UID:10059339-1785542400-1785628799@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-2/2026-08-01/
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;TZID=America/New_York:20260801T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260801T150000
DTSTAMP:20260605T194706
CREATED:20260324T130950Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260324T130950Z
UID:10055422-1785585600-1785596400@downtowndayton.org
SUMMARY:Great American Beer Tasting Presented by Heidelberg Distributing
DESCRIPTION:Don’t miss your chance to lock in the lowest price for one of Dayton’s favorite summer traditions! Great American Beer Tasting presented by Heidelberg Distributing returns to Day Air Ballpark on Saturday\, August 1\, from 12 PM to 3 PM\, and Early Bird tickets go on sale Tuesday\, April 7\, and are just $45 until prices increase on June 1. Sample from over 100 of the best beers\, ciders\, seltzers\, and ales. HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE: • 15\, 4oz. samples • 2026 Great American Beer Tasting t-shirt (If purchased before June 1) • 2026 Great American Beer Tasting pint glass • Complimentary field games and activities • Raffle ticket with each ticket purchased Designated driver tickets are just $15 and include a souvenir pint glass\, a raffle ticket\, a free soda or water\, and five 4 oz. samples of non-alcoholic beverages. Gates open at 11:30 AM\, with ID checks starting at 11 AM. BUT WAIT\, THERE’S MORE Buy your tickets before April 14 for a free $5 food voucher to spend on ballpark concessions during the event. Get your tickets before May 1 to also receive two (2) stadium seats at a Dayton Dragons baseball game. Get your tickets starting Tuesday\, April 7: www.daytondragons.com/beertasting Ticket prices increase to $50 on June 1 and $55 on July 20. Please contact Garrett Spikes at garrett.spikes@daytondragons.com or 937-228-22987 x 137 with any questions.
URL:https://downtowndayton.org/event/great-american-beer-tasting-presented-by-heidelberg-distributing/
LOCATION:Day Air Ballpark\, 220 North Patterson Blvd.\, Dayton\, OH\, 45402
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://downtowndayton.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/gabt.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260801T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260801T160000
DTSTAMP:20260605T194706
CREATED:20260603T141531Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260603T141531Z
UID:10059346-1785592800-1785600000@downtowndayton.org
SUMMARY:Community Workshop with Niki Johnson
DESCRIPTION:A community-building workshop where participants use paper and other materials to create collage elements for a forthcoming public artwork. \n\n\n\n\nArt in the City Event \nA community-building workshop where participants use paper and other materials to create collage elements for a forthcoming public artwork by Niki Johnson. The workshop emphasizes that democracy is not abstract—it is built\, sustained\, and strengthened by each of us\, right where we live. \nLed by Niki Johnson. \nFREE and open to all. \nhttps://www.eventbrite.com/e/community-workshop-with-niki-johnson-tickets-1986130948131?aff=oddtdtcreator
URL:https://downtowndayton.org/event/community-workshop-with-niki-johnson/
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/njohnson.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260801T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260801T173000
DTSTAMP:20260605T194706
CREATED:20260603T143255Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260603T143255Z
UID:10059356-1785605400-1785605400@downtowndayton.org
SUMMARY:Rock Fest w/ Big Sandy & His Fly-Rite Boys
DESCRIPTION:August 1 @ 5:30 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\nAmplified Series sponsored by City of Dayton \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nGenre:\n\n\n\n\nRock \n\n\n\n\n\n\nJoin us this year as we celebrate Rock Fest\, part of the Amplified Series sponsored by the City of Dayton. \nRock Amplified Lineup: \n\n5:30 p.m. The Boxcar Suite\n6:45 p.m. Spoils\n8 p.m. Big Sandy & His Fly-Rite Boys\n\nBig Sandy & His Fly-Rite Boys – Since forming in 1988 in Southern California\, Big Sandy and His Fly-Rite Boys have become one of the world’s most beloved Americana/Roots acts\, drawing from the deep musical waters that flow just beneath the surface of Rock & Roll’s fertile soil. A childhood passion for Country\, Doo-Wop\, and Rhythm & Blues 45s led Sandy (born Robert Williams) to pursue a singing career as a teenager\, beginning a life in music that continues decades later. And as his personal record collection continues to grow (75\,000 and counting)\, so does the depth of the musical influences that stream through his songwriting and singing style. A critically acclaimed tribute to Tex-Mex hero Freddy Fender\, released at the beginning of the 2020 lockdown\, points the way forward for Big Sandy and his Fly-Rite Boys as they continue on a path of musical growth. After nearly 35 years on the road\, and more than two dozen releases to their credit\, they remain key figures on the ever-changing Americana circuit\, both on record and in live appearances. \nSpoils – Spoils is a Cincinnati-based indie rock band with a sound that feels raw\, melodic\, and full of movement. Their music blends guitar-driven energy with emotional vocals and a DIY spirit\, creating songs that feel both personal and alive. \nRooted in the independent music scene\, Spoils brings an honest\, no-frills approach to their sound. Their live set invites listeners into something immediate and real\, with the kind of energy that fits perfectly on a summer night of free music in downtown Dayton. \nBring a chair or blanket\, find your spot on the lawn\, and get ready to discover a Cincinnati band bringing fresh indie rock energy to the Levitt stage. \nThe Boxcar Suite – The Boxcar Suite is a Cincinnati-based indie rock project known for melodic guitar work and introspective songwriting. Their music leans atmospheric and reflective\, pairing layered instrumentation with a steady\, understated energy. \nWith a DIY approach and a focus on mood and tone\, The Boxcar Suite creates songs that invite you to listen in and connect—perfect for discovering something new together on a summer night.
URL:https://downtowndayton.org/event/rock-fest-w-big-sandy-his-fly-rite-boys/
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/rockfest.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260805T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260805T200000
DTSTAMP:20260605T194706
CREATED:20260528T143055Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260528T143055Z
UID:10056370-1785945600-1785960000@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-3/2026-08-05/
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;TZID=America/New_York:20260806T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260806T190000
DTSTAMP:20260605T194706
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:20260807T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260807T210000
DTSTAMP:20260605T194706
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:20260807T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260807T190000
DTSTAMP:20260605T194706
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:20260807T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260807T210000
DTSTAMP:20260605T194706
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:20260808T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260808T190000
DTSTAMP:20260605T194706
CREATED:20260603T143811Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260603T143811Z
UID:10059359-1786215600-1786215600@downtowndayton.org
SUMMARY:Celebrating our Native American Community with Supaman
DESCRIPTION:August 8 @ 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\nNative American Hip-Hop \n\n\n\n\n\n\nLevitt Pavilion Dayton invites the community to an evening of music and cultural celebration as Supaman takes the stage on Saturday\, August 8 at 7:00 PM. This free\, family-friendly event is a celebration of our Native American friends and the power of music to connect and elevate our community’s well-being! \nAs a member of the “Apsaalooke Nation”\, Supaman makes his home on Apsáalooke lands in Montana. “Supaman” Is Christian Takes Gun Parrish\, a Native American dancer and innovative hip hop artist who has dedicated his life to empowering and spreading a message of hope\, pride and resilience through his original art form. He has been the recipient of the 2017 MTV VMA award for “Best Fight Against the System”! He is also a Nammy “Native American Music Award” winner\, “North American Indigenous Image Award winner\, and  7 “Tunney Award winner. He was awarded  The Aboriginal Peoples Choice Music Award in Canada for best video and was voted MTV’s new Artist of the Week! His nominations brought him home awards for Best Hip Hop Album and Best Producer for the Indigenous Music Awards. His videos have received millions of views on youtube and facebook which has put him in high demand touring extensively throughout the U.S.A and internationally. He has performed for Google at the Google headquarters in San Francisco. He recently was asked to audition for America’s Got Talent and the Broadway play Hamilton. He is currently on tour around the country spreading the good medicine of resiliency\, love\, laughter and inclusion.
URL:https://downtowndayton.org/event/celebrating-our-native-american-community-with-supaman/
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/supaman.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260813T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260813T193000
DTSTAMP:20260605T194706
CREATED:20260603T192455Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260603T192455Z
UID:10059389-1786642200-1786649400@downtowndayton.org
SUMMARY:Jazz & Beyond Series: Alex Nicodemus Jazz Trio
DESCRIPTION:Our Jazz & Beyond concerts present a great mix of familiar favorites and new faces from the region’s jazz scene. The series has been a regular fixture at the museum for more than 25 years.\nDoors open at 5PM and concerts take place from 5:30 to 7:30PM in the Shaw Gothic Cloister (unless otherwise noted). Admission is free for museum members and included in the price of general admission for non members. A cash bar will be available for alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks\, and snacks provided by Leo will also be available for purchase.
URL:https://downtowndayton.org/event/jazz-beyond-series-alex-nicodemus-jazz-trio/
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/jb.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260813T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260813T190000
DTSTAMP:20260605T194706
CREATED:20260603T143940Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260603T143940Z
UID:10059360-1786647600-1786647600@downtowndayton.org
SUMMARY:Terrance Simien
DESCRIPTION:Terrance Simien\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAugust 13 @ 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\nIndigenous Zydeco \n\n\n\n\n\n\nGrammy-winner Terrance Simien takes his audiences on a multicultural tour of the world inspired the many countries he’s visited on tour which have informed his musical language. He creates a hypnotic blend of New Orleans funk-reggae-flavored-world-blues-American zydeco roots music that beckons you to your feet and into the groove. Leading his Zydeco Experience band\, Simien has become one of the most respected and accomplished artists in American roots music today. He and his band mates have performed over 7000 concerts\, toured millions of miles to over 45 countries during their eventful career.
URL:https://downtowndayton.org/event/terrance-simien/
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/terrance.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260814T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260814T190000
DTSTAMP:20260605T194706
CREATED:20260603T144054Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260603T144054Z
UID:10059361-1786734000-1786734000@downtowndayton.org
SUMMARY:American Patchwork Quartet
DESCRIPTION:August 14 @ 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\nBrytus-Wilkinson Family Jazz Series \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nGenre:\n\n\n\n\nJazz \n\n\n\n\n\n\nAmerican Patchwork Quartet (APQ)\, led by multi-GRAMMY® award-winning guitarist/vocalist Clay Ross\, binds timeless American folk songs with jazz sophistication\, country twang\, West African hypnotics\, and East Asian ornamentation. APQ’s sound is a masterful confluence of tradition and innovation\, transcending culture\, politics\, and ideology. Their debut was recently nominated for “Best Folk Album” at the 67th GRAMMY® Awards. \nA southern-born roots music aficionado\, Ross is also the founder of the world-renowned Gullah group Ranky Tanky. In APQ\, Ross intertwines with other Grammy-winning artists: Falguni Shah\, an eleventh-generation Hindustani classical vocalist\, Moto Fukushima\, an internationally acclaimed Issei jazz bassist\, and Rudy Royston\, a renowned jazz drummer whose fibers were honed by African American church traditions. \nAPQ resonates as a potent symbol of unity in diversity. It stands testament to the notion that\, from a collage of varied backgrounds\, a coherent and beautiful whole can be fashioned. Mirroring America’s cultural mosaic\, APQ stitches together a story that’s both intricate and resilient. The fabric of their music is genuine—it neither feigns tolerance nor presents an overly-embellished image of unity. \nInstead\, each carefully chosen piece dives deep into America’s patchwork soul and shares the joys\, sorrows\, and unwavering hope of a nation crafted by shared dreams and diverse histories. Far from being a haphazard collection of musical scraps\, APQ is a deliberately designed homage to America’s past and a showcase of its dynamic present. It beckons listeners to meditate upon our shared identity and relish in the musical threads that bind us. Just as an intricately designed quilt becomes a cherished family heirloom\, when the distinct patterns of APQ’s music align in perfect harmony\, the result is both a blanket of warmth and a timeless treasure.
URL:https://downtowndayton.org/event/american-patchwork-quartet/
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/patchwork.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260814T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260814T210000
DTSTAMP:20260605T194706
CREATED:20260603T191803Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260603T191803Z
UID:10059386-1786734000-1786741200@downtowndayton.org
SUMMARY:Summer Music Series: Big Band Concert with Dayton Jazz Orchestra
DESCRIPTION:Join us under the pavilion as the RiverScape Summer Music Series features a Big Band Concert with Dayton Jazz Orchestra! 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.\nDuring 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!\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-big-band-concert-with-dayton-jazz-orchestra/
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/2026/06/651580809_1341255188034121_3055071933085527224_n.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260815T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260815T190000
DTSTAMP:20260605T194706
CREATED:20260603T144227Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260603T144227Z
UID:10059362-1786820400-1786820400@downtowndayton.org
SUMMARY:McGuffey Lane
DESCRIPTION:August 15 @ 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\nTim Tye’s Midnight Sky Country/Americana Series \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nGenre:\n\n\n\n\nCountry/Rock \n\n\n\n\n\n\nMcGuffey Lane is a country rock band from central Ohio. In 1972 founding members Steve George Reis (bass/ vocals) and Terry Efaw (steel guitar/ gut string guitar/ electric guitar) were a duo called “Scotch and Soda”. When they added Bobby Gene McNelley (vocalist/ guitarist) they renamed themselves McGuffey Lane after the street of Steve’s Athens Ohio home. As their popularity grew they added Dick Smith (drums/ vocals) and Stephen “Tebes” Douglass (keyboards/ harmonica/ vocals). In 1977 McGuffey Lane started playing at Zachariah’s Red Eye Saloon and soon became the house band. At that point they added John Schwab (vocalist/ guitarist) who was opening for them as the sixth and final member of the original McGuffey Lane. \nMcGuffey Lane played at Zachariah’s through 1980. In August of 1980 they released their first self-titled album on Paradise Island Records selling 40\,000 in the first three months. The album reached #1 in Columbus during the fall of 1980 which gained the attention of Atlantic Records. Atlantic released the album nationally on its Atco Label with sales of 175\,000. During the early 1980’s McGuffey Lane was a national act touring with Charlie Daniels\, the Allman Brothers\, The Judds and Marshall Tucker Band. In 1981 they released their second album “Aqua Dreams” followed by their third album “Let the Hard Times Roll” released in 1982. In early 1984 Tebes Douglass was killed in an automobile accident returning home from a show in Dayton. They released their fourth and final album for Atlantic “Day by Day” and dedicated it to Tebes. After the release of “Day by Day”\, Bobby Gene McNelley left the band to pursue a solo song writing career. \nIn 1985 McGuffey Lane went back to their Ohio roots playing clubs\, concert halls\, fairs and festivals. In 1986 they released “A McGuffey Lane Christmas”\, a fundraiser for the Central Ohio Lung Association. In 1990 McGuffey Lane disbanded after a tour through the state and a last night at the Newport Music Hall. In 1993 they did a “one time show” at the Newport and in 1995 they released “Greatest Hits Live and More”. At that point McGuffey Lane regrouped featuring John Schwab\, Terry Efaw and Casey McGowan from the 1980’s line up. They were joined by veteran Columbus area musicians including Molly Pauken (mandolin\, acoustic guitar\, vocals). In 1998 they released “Call Me Lucky” . It was during 1998 that current McGuffey Lane members joined the band. Randy Huff (drums/ vocals) joined in the summer of 1998 and Kevin Reed (harmonica/ vocals) joined at the end of 1998. \nIn 2001 McGuffey Lane organized the First Annual Zachariah’s Red Eye Saloon Reunion featuring themselves and other acts that performed during the Zach’s days. In 2002 they released all acoustic CD “Wood” which included popular concerts songs from the late 1970’s but never previously released. In 2003 the Zachariah’s Red Eye Saloon Reunion moved to Promo West Pavilion and has been held there (now Kemba LIVE!) every year since. Finally in 2006 after years of fighting with Atlantic over the rights to their first four albums recorded in the mid 1980’s\, Rhino Records released them in 2 albums sets. The first self-titled album and “Aqua Dreams” in one set and “Let the Hard Times Roll” and “Day by Day” in the second set. \nIn 2010 McGuffey Lane released their 10th CD “10” on Lick Records which was co-founded by John Schwab. In 2011 “Bartender” from the “10” CD was released as a single. It reached #50 on the national country charts (Music Row Magazine). In June 2017 McGuffey Lane released their 11th and latest CD “Legend of the Red Eye” on Lick Records. In a review of “Legend of the Red Eye” Dave Culbertson writes: “If you like the “country” side of The Lane…you should love this one. It is an interesting mixture of originals and masterfully-done covers of some of the country and country-pop classics from a variety of artists…all well done…many times\, better than the originals.” In November 2017 “Cowboys Like What Cowgirls Do” by Steve George Reis from the new “Legend of the Red Eye” was #1 on the Alternative Country Music chart. The 2023 Zachariah’s Red Eye Reunion was held on Saturday January 21st at Kemba LIVE in downtown Columbus Ohio to another capacity crowd. \nMcGuffey Lane’s history mirrors one of the songs from their 2002 “Wood” album. “I’ve been up and down and all around my head in the clouds and my feet on the ground. Don’t you worry baby don’t you worry about me. Cause I’ve survived everything that comes and goes. I still know which way that old north wind blows. After all these years I’m “Runnin’ Wild and Free”. McGuffey Lane is still going strong with the three original surviving members (Steve George Reis\, Terry Efaw and John Schwab) in the band. McGuffey Lane still performs about 20 concerts annually. The Journey Continues and “It’s A Good Day”. \nProjects Unlimited & Wyse Family Foundation Gem Series Opener: THE NEW OLD-FASHIONED
URL:https://downtowndayton.org/event/mcguffey-lane/
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/mcl.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260818T190500
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260818T190500
DTSTAMP:20260605T194706
CREATED:20260227T141839Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260227T141839Z
UID:10054898-1787079900-1787079900@downtowndayton.org
SUMMARY:Dayton Dragons vs. Quad Cities River Bandits
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-quad-cities-river-bandits/2026-08-18/
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:20260820T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260820T190000
DTSTAMP:20260605T194706
CREATED:20260603T144356Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260603T144356Z
UID:10059363-1787252400-1787252400@downtowndayton.org
SUMMARY:The Levert Experience
DESCRIPTION:August 20 @ 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\nMontgomery County Funk/R&B Series \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nGenre:\n\n\n\n\nR&B \n\n\n\n\n\n\nWe are thrilled to present Levert Experience\, an electrifying R&B ensemble ready to dazzle audiences with their soulful performances and undeniable talent. Comprising Marc Gordon\, the original founding member of Levert\, along with Joe Little\, lead singer of The Rude Boys\, and Dave Tolliver from the R&B duo Men At Large\, this group brings a wealth of experience and passion to every stage they grace. \nLevert Experience promises an unforgettable musical journey through the timeless hits of Levert\, delivering dynamic and engaging performances each time they step into the spotlight. With each member infusing their own unique flair and energy into every performance\, audiences are guaranteed an evening filled with excitement and nostalgia. \nEach member brings excitement to the stage as they take you through a journey musical journey of the song book of the classic Levert hits such as “Baby I’m Ready “ which reach number 1# on the R&B charts in 1991. Who could forget the number one hit ABC-123 \nLevert had hits songs throughout the late 80’s and early 90’s. You can’t forget the top five Billboard pop smash “ Casanova . Not only will they will be performing hits from Levert\, but also hit songs that came out of Trevel Productions from the group the Rude Boys such as “Written All Over Your Face” Which became 1990 Billboard song of the year. Also from the 1# song from “Men At Large catalogue “So Alone” \nThey will be performing some of most popular songs by Levert including their first number one Pop Pop Goes My Mind We are confident that Levert Experience is the perfect addition to your lineup\, offering a fresh take on classic R&B hits that will leave audiences craving more.
URL:https://downtowndayton.org/event/the-levert-experience/
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/levert.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260821T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260821T190000
DTSTAMP:20260605T194706
CREATED:20260603T144512Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260603T144512Z
UID:10059364-1787338800-1787338800@downtowndayton.org
SUMMARY:Bywater Call
DESCRIPTION:August 21 @ 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/Roots/Southern Soul \n\n\n\n\n\n\nOften transcending genres\, Bywater Call is known for their dynamic\, emotional live shows\, featuring powerful vocals and exciting interplay between all band members. A powerhouse seven-piece Southern soul\, roots rock outfit from Toronto\, Canada; the band is comprised of Meghan Parnell (vocals)\, Dave Barnes (guitar)\, Bruce McCarthy (drums)\, Mike Meusel (bass)\, newest member\, Andrew Moljgun (keys)\, Stephen Dyte (trumpet) and Julian Nalli (tenor sax).\nBywater Call is steadily building a reputation as one of best up-and-coming bands in the market today. Their live performances paired with an ever-growing catalog of recorded music\, is establishing their fanbase globally. With praises from other artists\, media\, and music fans alike\, Bywater Call is quickly becoming a fan favorite. \nRecently\, Bywater Call played their second Joe Bonamassa “Keeping the Blues Alive” (KTBA) cruise\, featuring headliners Big Head Todd and the Monsters and Larkin Poe. In 2025\, they played the Netherland’s BOSPOP festival alongside the likes of the Black Keys\, Warren Haynes Band\, Marcus King and Blackberry Smoke\, and others. \nBywater Call’s music is an exploration of life’s highs and lows. From intimate ballads that lay bare the complexities of human emotion to electrifying anthems that demand to be played at full volume\, their catalogue is a journey through human experience\, featuring influences from the likes of The Band\, The Wood Brothers\, Tedeschi Trucks Band\, Otis Redding\, Little Feat\, Sly and the Family Stone\, and many more.
URL:https://downtowndayton.org/event/bywater-call/
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/bywater.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260821T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260821T210000
DTSTAMP:20260605T194706
CREATED:20260603T191933Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260603T191933Z
UID:10059387-1787338800-1787346000@downtowndayton.org
SUMMARY:Summer Music Series: Kenny Chesney Tribute with The Poets & Pirates
DESCRIPTION:Join us under the pavilion as the RiverScape Summer Music Series features a Kenny Chesney Tribute with The Poets & Pirates! It’s time to grab your flip-flops\, because we’re welcoming the “No Shoes Nation” to RiverScape MetroPark. From the heart-pounding energy of a sold-out stadium to the laid-back storytelling of the Pirate-Poet himself\, this band delivers the authentic Kenny Chesney experience with hit after hit of incredible music that keeps the party going all night long.\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-kenny-chesney-tribute-with-the-poets-pirates/
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/2026/06/650905005_1341258788033761_1951645703948802320_n.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260821T200000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260821T200000
DTSTAMP:20260605T194706
CREATED:20260603T142135Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260603T142135Z
UID:10059347-1787342400-1787342400@downtowndayton.org
SUMMARY:Birthday Candles
DESCRIPTION:Birthday Candles\n\n\n\nby Noah Haidle\nErnestine Ashworth spends her 17th birthday agonizing over her insignificance in the universe. Soon enough\, it’s her 18th birthday. Even sooner\, her 41st. Her 70th. Her 101st. Five generations\, an infinity of dreams\, and one cake baked over a century. This sweet\, poignant\, and funny play takes you through the extraordinary moments that make up one woman’s ordinary life. \nBirthday Candles is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals on behalf of Samuel French\, Inc. www.concordtheatricals.com
URL:https://downtowndayton.org/event/birthday-candles/2026-08-21/
LOCATION:Dayton Theatre Guild\, 430 Wayne Avenue\, Dayton\, OH\, 45410\, USA
CATEGORIES:Art in the City 2026
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://downtowndayton.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/bdaycandles.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260822T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260822T190000
DTSTAMP:20260605T194706
CREATED:20260603T144920Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260603T144920Z
UID:10059365-1787425200-1787425200@downtowndayton.org
SUMMARY:The Original Slave Ft. Thomas Lockett and Floyd Miller
DESCRIPTION:August 22 @ 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\nMontgomery County Funk/R&B Series \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nGenre:\n\n\n\n\nFunk \n\n\n\n\n\n\nSecond-generation Dayton funk stars The Original Slave formed in Ohio in 1976 around a nucleus of guitarist Mark Hicks\, singer and brass man Floyd Miller\, bassist Mark Adams\, guitarist and singer Danny Webster\, and trumpeter Steve Washington\, the nephew of pioneering Ohio Players trumpeter Ralph “Pee Wee” Middlebrooks. \nEarly on\, Floyd came to a band meeting wearing a t-shirt with the word “Slave” on one side and “Master” on the other. Washington\, whose family had direct ties to Frederick Douglass and the abolitionist movement\, embraced a concept that transformed the term into a message of responsibility and purpose: that everyone carries a responsibility to help make the world a better place. The band’s contribution would be to uplift people through music with healing\, meaning\, and connection. They called their higher-plane sound not simply funk\, but “Fungk” with a “g\,” alluding to a spiritual\, God-inspired element. \nThe Original Slave exploded onto the scene with its 1977 debut single\, “Slide\,” making overnight sensations of guitarist Mark “Drac” Hicks\, who earned his nickname through vocal improvisations on the track\, and bassist “Mr. Mark” Adams. Both were still teenagers\, yet already demonstrating extraordinary musical talent. \nBy the group’s third album\, the ever-evolving collective had added two powerful new voices: vocalist Starleana Young\, just 16 years old at the time\, and Steve Arrington. Arrington began as a percussionist but quickly emerged as one of the defining voices of Slave\, bringing an organic vocal style influenced as much by jazz saxophonist John Coltrane and blues-rock guitarist Jimi Hendrix as by traditional singers. \nToday\, The Original Slave Ft. Thomas Lockett and Floyd Miller continues to celebrate and perform the timeless music that made Slave one of the most influential funk bands to emerge from Dayton’s rich musical legacy. Audiences can expect the classic grooves\, infectious energy\, and enduring hits that helped define an era of funk music while honoring the band’s lasting impact on generations of fans.
URL:https://downtowndayton.org/event/the-original-slave-ft-thomas-lockett-and-floyd-miller/
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/slave.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260826T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260826T190000
DTSTAMP:20260605T194706
CREATED:20260603T145055Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260603T145055Z
UID:10059366-1787770800-1787770800@downtowndayton.org
SUMMARY:David Nail
DESCRIPTION:August 26 @ 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\nCountry \n\n\n\n\n\n\nDavid Nail’s prowess as a true artist in an era that rewards artificially enhanced art should not be overlooked… Some might even call him a “tour de force” as his songs pull no punches in evoking the demons with which he has wrestled through much of his life. Nail’s creative maturity reflects in both his songwriting and vocal ability\, widely hailed as one of the best male voices in Nashville. His consistent quality output and storytelling over his nearly two decade career is what keeps music lovers coming back and bringing others.
URL:https://downtowndayton.org/event/david-nail/
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/nail.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260827T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260827T190000
DTSTAMP:20260605T194706
CREATED:20260603T145245Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260603T145245Z
UID:10059367-1787857200-1787857200@downtowndayton.org
SUMMARY:Bad Co. Legacy
DESCRIPTION:August 27 @ 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\nClassic Rock \n\n\n\n\n\n\nBad Company formed in London in 1973 by singer Paul Rodgers and drummer Simon Kirke (both ex-Free)\, guitarist Mick Ralphs (ex-Mott the Hoople) and bassist Boz Burrell (ex-King Crimson). Kirke was the only member to remain throughout the band’s entire run\, while he and Ralphs were the only members to appear on every studio album. Peter Grant\, who managed the rock band Led Zeppelin\, also managed Bad Company until 1982. \nBad Company enjoyed great success throughout the 1970s. Their first three albums\, Bad Company (1974)\, Straight Shooter (1975) and Run with the Pack (1976)\, reached the top five in the album charts in both the UK and the US. Many of their singles and songs\, such as “Bad Company”\, “Can’t Get Enough” (1974)\, “Feel Like Makin’ Love” (1975)\, “Shooting Star” (1975)\, “Burnin’ Sky” (1977) and “Rock ‘n’ Roll Fantasy” (1979)\, remain staples of classic rock radio. They have sold 20 million RIAA-certified albums in the US and 40 million worldwide. Though they initially disbanded in 1982\, Bad Company reunited on many occasions to record and tour until 2019. In 2023\, Kirke revealed that they would not continue as a band following the development of Rodgers’ recent health issues. Earlier this year Bad Co was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. \nEnter BAD CO – The Legacy \nFor seven years Robert Hart was the lead singer of Bad Co in its classic rock era. He has also played many years with The Jones Gang with Kenny Jones of The Faces. and currently with Manfred Mann’s Earthband. \nDave ‘Bucket’ Colwell\, guitarist\, spent 12 years in Bad Co\, was a member of Humble Pie for several years recording\, co-writing and producing the album Back on Track\, The Jones Gang\, ASAP and many other bands. \nDuring 1992\, Hart was approached by Mick Ralphs and Simon Kirke and asked if he would like to join them as the third lead vocalist for Bad Company\, following Paul Rodgers and Brian Howe. Hart performed with Bad Company\, touring the world including the US and Canada. In July 1994 a contract was drawn up by Alliance Artists and Legend Management and signed by the then Bad Company line up\, Mick Ralphs\, Simon Kirke\, Robert Hart\, Dave “Bucket” Colwell and Rick Wills. In 1995 a self-produced Bad Company album was released\, Company of Strangers\, with Hart who bore a vocal similarity to Paul Rodgers. It contained four tracks self-penned or co-written by Hart. The band made a promotional tour of the US with Bon Jovi. In 1996 another Bad Co album\, Stories Told and Untold featured Hart and contained seven new compositions and seven acoustic versions including ‘Can’t Get Enough’ and ‘Ready For Love’. Hart was also lead vocalist on three live albums between 1994 and 2001. In March 2020 he was on tour in Germany with “Rock meets Classic” featuring Alice Cooper. \nDuring the Brian Howe period the album\, Holy Water\, was released. The album was enormously successful both critically and commercially\, attaining Top 40 and platinum status by selling more than one million copies. Holy Water was the band’s first album on the Atlantic subsidiary Atco. The album spun off the singles: “If You Needed Somebody” the title track “Holy Water” and “Walk Through Fire”. “Holy Water” also hit No. 1 for 2 weeks on the AOR charts with “If You Needed Somebody” reaching No. 2. \nIn 1990 Dave “Bucket” Colwell joined Bad Co as guitarist at the request of Mick Ralphs who sat out for most of the Holy Water tour. Their subsequent tour\, supported by Damn Yankees\, was one of the top five grossing tours of 1991. As well as touring for over a decade\, Colwell recorded Here Comes Trouble\, What You Hear is What You Get\, Company of Strangers and Stories Told and Untold\, co-writing the last two. He then went on to record Merchants of Cool with Paul Rodgers in 2002. \nHart and Colwell are joined by Chris Childs\, exThunder and Tyketto and John Lingwood\, Manfred Mann’s Earthband and Roger Chapman\, on drums \nFans can expect many of the classic songs spanning Bad Company’s repertoire; ‘Ready for Love’\, ‘Can’t get Enough’\, ‘Rock and Roll Fantasy’\, the list goes on. It promises to be a night to remember! \nProjects Unlimited & Wyse Family Foundation Gem Series Opener: VISITOR
URL:https://downtowndayton.org/event/bad-co-legacy/
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/badco.jpg
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260828T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260828T190000
DTSTAMP:20260605T194706
CREATED:20260603T145411Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260603T145411Z
UID:10059368-1787943600-1787943600@downtowndayton.org
SUMMARY:J & the Causeways
DESCRIPTION:August 28 @ 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\nMontgomery County Funk/R&B Series \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nGenre:\n\n\n\n\nR&B/Soul \n\n\n\n\n\n\nNew Orleans soul/rock powerhouse ensemble J & The Causeways debut album\, Motions\, conjures a universal theme of togetherness and compassion — melodies and lyrics cultivated with a keen understanding of reaching one another through healing and transcendence.  Singer and keyboardist Jordan Anderson leads with a soaring level of octave prowess and sonic range akin to that of other renowned soul acts like St. Paul & The Broken Bones or Brittany Howard.  Captured by famed musicians/producers Robert Mercurio and Ben Ellman (both members of NOLA cosmic funk outfit Galactic) at Studio in the Country and Esplanade Studios\, Motions is a record soaked in the freewheelin’ ethos and sonic tones of a vibrant city that Anderson proudly calls home. \nProjects Unlimited & Wyse Family Foundation Gem Series Opener: YUPPIE
URL:https://downtowndayton.org/event/j-the-causeways/
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/caseways.jpg
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