Downtown Dayton Partnership

Friday Night Paint-In
2026-04-03 18:00 - 20:00, 2026-04-03 16:00 - 18:00 (America/New_York) | K12 Gallery & TEJAS, 341 S. Jefferson St., Dayton, OH, 45402
Friday Night Paint-In on first Fridays of every month between October 2025-April 2026. 2 sessions available 4:00pm-6:00pm and 6:00pm-8:00pm. Bring your own beverage of choice and a snack. $30.00 per person Register online: www.k12tejasgallery.org or in person at K12 TEJAS Gallery 341 S. Jefferson St. Dayton, OH 45402

April First Friday at the Arcade
2026-04-03 17:00 - 20:00 | Dayton Arcade, 35 W. Fourth St., Dayton, OH, 45402
Join us for April First Friday at the Arcade! The Arcade’s historic concourse will be open on Friday, April 3 from 5–8 PM, welcoming visitors to explore the heart of the complex. Shop our Arcade tenants! The Contemporary Dayton The Garden Grille & Bar Luke’s Grab & Go Lucho Maria’s at the Market Pink Moon Goods, Too Popup Gallery: John Landsidel Art Road Runner Espresso Bar Smales Pretzel Bakery Table 33 Willow Rust 6888 Kitchen Check out our 15 popup vendors – full list to be announced! Enjoy acoustic music from BJSR in the Concourse from 5-7 PM. Concourse doors will be open 5–8 PM at: 24 W. Third St. 35 W. Fourth St. Come explore, grab a DORA drink, support local, and kick off your weekend at the Arcade!

Coffee Talk
2026-04-03 11:00 - 12:00 | 2nd Street Market, 600 E. Second St., Dayton, OH, 45402, USA
Join Poppets Coffee, a Market vendor, where you’ll explore the rich flavors of specialty coffee paired with sweet and savory bites.

Artist Talk: Jason REVOK
2026-04-02 18:30 - 20:00 | The Contemporary Dayton, 25 W. Fourth St., Dayton, OH, 45402, United States
Join us for a chill chat with artist Jason REVOK as he shares his creative journey and art insights. Led by Curator, Heather Jones REVOK grew up in Southern California and is based in Detroit. His work has been exhibited at the Museum of Contemporary Art Detroit; the Museum of Contemporary Art, Los Angeles; and the Pasadena Museum of California Art, as well as in galleries and special projects in New York, Los Angeles, Detroit, and Dubai. His work is held in important private collections worldwide. This event is FREE and open to all.

You’re Dating a Narcissist!
2026-04-02 17:10 | THE NEON, United States
An outspoken psychologist, burnt by love, takes an emergency trip to Los Angeles with her best friend to talk her smitten daughter out of marrying a man she is convinced is a narcissist.

Epic: Elvis Presley in Concert
2026-04-02 14:50 | THE NEON, United States
Long-lost footage from Elvis Presely’s legendary Las Vegas residency in the 1970s woven together with rare 16mm footage from Elvis on Tour, and 8mm from the Graceland archive, plus recordings of Elvis telling “his side of the story” rediscovered during Baz Luhrmann’s research for his 2022 film, ELVIS.

Tow
2026-04-01 19:30 | THE NEON, United States
“Based on a true story, TOW follows Amanda Ogle (Rose Byrne), a woman living in her aging Toyota Camry on the streets of Seattle. When her car — her only lifeline – is stolen and impounded, Amanda is thrust into a relentless legal battle against an indifferent system. What begins as a fight to reclaim her car evolves into a deeply human story of resilience, dignity, and the power of one woman’s voice in the face of systemic failure.”

Paris Is Burning – With Special Guest Trace Lysette
2026-03-31 19:30 | THE NEON, United States
In celebration of the 50th Anniversary of the Greater Dayton LGBT Center, we’re screening the classic documentary PARIS IS BURNING – featuring a post screening discussion with special guest – actress Trace Lysette. Lysette is known for her roles in TRANSPARENT, HUSTLERS, POSE and MONICA…and she has ties to the NYC Ballroom scene. You don’t want to miss this special screening on the big screen!
“Where does voguing come from, and what, exactly, is ‘throwing shade?’ This landmark documentary provides a vibrant snapshot of the 1980s through the eyes of New York City’s African American and Latinx Harlem drag-ball scene. Made over seven years, PARIS IS BURNING offers an intimate portrait of rival fashion “houses,” from fierce contests for trophies to house mothers offering sustenance in a world rampant with homophobia, transphobia, racism, AIDS, and poverty. Featuring legendary voguers, drag queens, and trans women — including Willi Ninja, Pepper LaBeija, Dorian Corey, and Venus Xtravaganza.”

Paris Is Burning – With Special Guest Trace Lysette
2026-03-31 19:30 | THE NEON, United States
Overview
In celebration of the 50th Anniversary of the Greater Dayton LGBT Center, we’re screening the classic documentary PARIS IS BURNING – featuring a post screening discussion with special guest – actress Trace Lysette. Lysette is known for her roles in TRANSPARENT, HUSTLERS, POSE and MONICA…and she has ties to the NYC Ballroom scene. You don’t want to miss this special screening on the big screen!
“Where does voguing come from, and what, exactly, is ‘throwing shade?’ This landmark documentary provides a vibrant snapshot of the 1980s through the eyes of New York City’s African American and Latinx Harlem drag-ball scene. Made over seven years, PARIS IS BURNING offers an intimate portrait of rival fashion “houses,” from fierce contests for trophies to house mothers offering sustenance in a world rampant with homophobia, transphobia, racism, AIDS, and poverty. Featuring legendary voguers, drag queens, and trans women — including Willi Ninja, Pepper LaBeija, Dorian Corey, and Venus Xtravaganza.”
Tuesday, March 31 at 7:30. Tickets on sale now!
Director
Jennie Livingston
Producer
Jennie Livingston, Barry Swimar
Cast
Pepper LaBeija, Octavia St. Laurent, Venus Xtravaganza

Bagels & Broadway: Suffs
2026-03-31 08:30 | The Benjamin & Marian Schuster Performing Arts Center, 1 West Second Street, Dayton, OH, 45402
Ever wonder what it takes to prepare a stage for a show? Join us for BAGELS & BROADWAY, a unique opportunity for you to find out first-hand. Have a cup of coffee and a bagel – then watch the show’s crew and members of IATSE Local 66 set up the sights and sounds for SUFFS!
BAGELS & BROADWAY is free, but you must register. Please register for only the number of people who can attend. If you need to cancel your registration, please do so within 48 hours of the event by calling the Ticket Office at 937-228-3630 or emailing tickets@daytonlive.org. Dayton Live reserves the right to remove email addresses from future BAGELS & BROADWAY emails if you register and do not attend without letting us know.

Becoming: 70 Years of Growth, Expression, and Possibility
2026-03-31 | Dayton Metro Library – Main Library, 215 E. Third Street, Dayton, OH, 45402
Dayton Metro Library’s newest art exhibit, Becoming: 70 Years of Growth, Expression, and Possibility, will be on display Sunday, March 1 – Tuesday, March 31, in the Main Library’s The 2nd Floor Gallery.
Becoming celebrates the artists of United Rehabilitation Services (URS) and the ways creativity serves as a powerful form of communication, identity, and connection.
For 70 years, URS has supported children and adults with developmental and acquired disabilities as they grow, explore independence, and express who they are. Their artwork reflects a journey of becoming, not as a fixed destination but an ongoing process shaped by experience, curiosity, collaboration, and self-expression.
The exhibit features a wide range of abilities, styles, and mediums. Some pieces were created individually, while others were created collaboratively, emphasizing the importance of community, shared effort, and collective voice. The scale of the work is intentionally varied, ranging from small, intimate pieces to large-format installations, mirroring the diversity of expression within the disability community.
Presented during Disabilities Awareness Month, Becoming invites viewers to look beyond labels and assumptions to see creativity, agency, and possibility. Each piece tells a story, not of limitation, but of growth, imagination, and presence.
For more information, visit DaytonMetroLibrary.org/Exhibits or call the Library’s Ask Me Line at 937.463.2665.

Bill Blagg: Family Magic
2026-03-29 14:00 | Victoria Theatre, 138 N. Main St., Dayton, OH, 45402, United States
Saturday, March 28, 2026 – 1 & 4 p.m. Traditional Performances
Sunday, March 29, 2026 – 2 p.m. Sensory Inclusive Performance
Prepare to be amazed as ordinary objects come to life while others vanish in the blink of an eye… and you could even be chosen to float in mid-air! FAMILY MAGIC is a unique blend of comedy, audience participation, and mind-bending magic that guarantees an unforgettable adventure for all ages.
SENSORY INCLUSIVE PERFORMANCE
In the sensory inclusive performance on Sunday, March 29, you can expect a reduction of loud or jarring sounds, the absence of flashing or strobe lighting on stage, modification of house lights during the performance, and a judgment-free environment where all patrons are free to vocalize or move around the theatre. There are trained staff members at the performance to help with any questions or needs during your visit. At no time will anyone be asked to leave the performance due to vocal reactions, movement, or behaviors related to cognitive or developmental abilities.

Natchez
2026-03-29 12:00 | THE NEON, United States
Join us for a special, one-time screening of the Tribecca award-winning documentary NATCHEZ – Sunday, March 29 at Noon! “Filmmaker Suzannah Herbert takes a sharp look at the American South’s unreconciled history through a Mississippi town that mixes antebellum tourism with a community deeply divided over its past. With an unflinching lens, the film captures the debates, memories, and tensions that are building toward a reckoning.”
A post-screening discussion will be led by Miranda Brooks, Justice & Inclusion Administrator of Dayton’s Human Relations Council.
Tickets are $12.50 each.

Foraging for Morels
2026-03-29 10:30 - 11:30 | 2nd Street Market, 600 E. Second St., Dayton, OH, 45402, USA
Join Michael Goldstick from Guided By Mushrooms, a Market Vendor, for an introduction on how to forage for Morels. Join Michael for an introduction on how to forage for Morels, the elusive and fleeting fungi, along with other Spring mushrooms. Slide presentation along with Q & A. Meet in the Market’s east dining room.

Petty Thieves – A Tribute to Tom Petty
2026-03-28 20:00 - 22:00 | The Brightside, 905 E. Third St., Dayton, OH, 45402
The Petty Thieves, a Dayton tribute to Rock & Roll Hall of Famer Tom Petty, performing greatest hits and beloved deep cuts. How to Go? Saturday, March 28, 2026 The Brightside (905 E 3rd St Dayton) Doors 7pm / Show 8-10pm All ages welcome! Tickets $20 GA advance ($25 at the door) Reserved Tables $75 for Two; $120 for Four Tickets and info: https://www.handstamp.com/e/the-petty-thieves-kcdpx2gl

Storm Large: Love, Lust & Rock ‘n’ Roll
2026-03-28 19:30 | The Benjamin & Marian Schuster Performing Arts Center, 1 West Second Street, Dayton, OH, 45402
From smoky jazz to rock anthems, showstoppers to sultry originals, Storm Large is a force of nature. Backed by her fearless band Le Bonheur, she tears into songs by Cole Porter, Queen, Brandi Carlile, and her own searing catalog with raw emotion and razor-sharp wit. A Pink Martini favorite and “America’s Got Talent” standout, Storm brings powerhouse vocals, punk-rock attitude, and a whole lot of heart to this genre-defying symphonic ride.

Stay Black And Die: A Worthy Offering
2026-03-28 19:30 | PNC Arts Annex, 46 N. Ludlow St., Dayton, OH, 45402
STAY BLACK AND DIE: A WORTHY OFFERING is an emotionally charged theatrical experience about family, integrity, and the sacrifices that are made to build legacy.
One family must grapple with what they have inherited and what they hope to pass down as the weight of blame, love, and cultural responsibility clash with perceived truths that threaten to tear them apart. As they navigate difficult family dynamics and attempt to build a bridge toward the Promised Land of healing and redemption, they must hope facing the past and themselves is enough to get everyone to the other side.

Sinclair Theatre presents Amélie the Musical
2026-03-28 19:00 | Blair Hall Theatre – Sinclair, 444 W. Third St., Dayton, OH, 45402
Sinclair Theatre is proud to present Amélie the Musical, a whimsical adaptation of the hit 2001 romantic comedy, live on stage from March 20 – 28 in Blair Hall Theatre, Building 2, on Sinclair’s downtown Dayton campus. Tickets are $20 for adults and $15 for students/seniors and are available online at www.sinclair.edu/tickets. Groups of 20 or more ordering online save all ticketing fees. On the day of Princess Diana’s death, Amélie, a young woman more comfortable in her daydreams than in the day-to-day, finds the childhood treasures of her apartment’s previous tenant. This discovery sets her on a campaign of anonymous altruism as she sets out to better the lives of the eccentric neighbors and friends around her. “Bringing Amélie to the stage has been a journey of discovering how small, tender acts can ripple outward and transform entire lives. What I love most about Amélie is its celebration of quiet courage—the bravery it takes to open your heart in a world that often feels disconnected,” says director, Kimberly Borst. “In this production, we’ve leaned into the magic of Parisian whimsy while grounding the story in something deeply human: the longing to be seen, to be known, and to love without fear. We have embraced the show’s playful imagination and delicate intimacy and inviting audiences to rediscover wonder in the everyday.” The cast consists of Ann-Margaret Adkins, Isaiah Autajay, Anthony Lombardo, Allison (Al) Friessen, Anthony (Tony) Cercone, Adalia Gaynier, William Finnell, Nona Whalen, Kailie Gould, Gabriel Reker, Tiffany Higgins, Jeniece Craver, Alida Ohrman, Ryan Hester, and Jhoana Novelo. Music by Daniel Messé, lyrics by Daniel Messé and Nathan Tysen. Book by Craig Lucas. Based on the motion picture Amelie written by Jean-Pierre Jeunet and Guillaume Laurant. AMELIE is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals. www.concordtheatricals.com Where: Sinclair Community College, Blair Hall Theatre (Building 2), 444 W. Third St., Dayton Ticket Information:  Adults: $20 Students/Seniors $15 plus $2 service fee. No at-the-door ticket sales. All tickets must be purchased online at: www.sinclair.edu/tickets

Artist Talk: Edd McGatha
2026-03-28 18:00 | Dayton Society of Artists, 48 High Street, Dayton, OH, 45402, United States
March 28, 2026. 6-6:45PM @The Dayton Society of Artists. 48 High Street. Dayton, Ohio. 45403
Ends with a special raffle prize for attendees.
Join us for an artist talk with Edd McGatha in conjunction with his exhibition, 2024/366 Picture of the Day Project.
In 2024—a leap year with 366 days—Edd committed to creating a photograph every single day. The only rule: the selected image had to be taken on the specific day it represents. What began as a simple framework evolved into a year-long discipline that resulted in more than 10,000 images and countless stories.
During this talk, Edd will share insights into his creative process, the challenges and discoveries of daily image-making, and his experience documenting life primarily in Tipp City and Dayton, with additional work captured during a trip to New York City. Attendees will gain perspective on the rigor, intuition, and storytelling behind selecting one image to represent each day.

A. Phillip Randolph Institute Chili Cook-off
2026-03-28 17:30 - 20:30 | 313 S. Jefferson St., 313 S. Jefferson St., Dayton, OH, 45402
Bowls, Ballots, and Building Community! The APRI Group invites you to a day of food, fellowship, and community impact. Our annual Chili Cook-Off is back, and we’ve added even more ways to give back this year. As you enjoy samples from our talented local cooks, you’ll also be part of a larger mission. We will be honoring and donating $500 each to three grassroots organizations dedicated to serving our local Black communities. In the spirit of civic engagement, we will also host a non-partisan forum where guests can hear from candidates running in the primary election. This is a unique opportunity to get informed, get fed, and give back all at once! Your Vote Matters: Every attendee gets a ballot to help the winning cook take home 10% of the door ticket sales. When: March 28th, 2026 / 5:30-8:30p Where: 313 S Jefferson Street Admission: $20 Come for the chili, stay for the community!

Easter Bonnet Tea
2026-03-28 14:00 - 16:00 | The Dayton Woman’s Club, 225 N Ludlow St, Dayton, OH, 45402, United States
Gather your friends and family for a delightful celebration of spring at our annual Easter Bonnet Tea!

Guests of all ages are invited for a delightful afternoon of tea, sweet treats, and festive fun in our beautiful historic mansion, with live harp music by Leah Estes adding to the charming atmosphere.

Wear your favorite decorated Easter bonnet and join the excitement of our Easter Hat Contest, with prizes for the Most Beautiful, Most Whimsical, and Most Creative hats. We’ll also enjoy an Easter Hat Parade, and children 7 and under can take part in an indoor Easter Egg Hunt.

Enjoy scones with jam and cream, tea sandwiches, desserts, and tea while celebrating this charming springtime tradition.
Following the tea, guests are invited to join a docent-led tour of the historic Dayton Woman’s Club mansion. A $10 donation is suggested, with proceeds supporting the preservation of the mansion and the Club’s community programs.

Seating is limited – get your tickets early!Adults – $40 DWC members | $45 non-membersChildren (12 & under) – $20 DWC members | $25 non-members

We are open to the general public. Our venue is fully accessible with a ramp entrance.

Moss Wall Art Workshop
2026-03-28 12:00 - 15:00 | Now and Zen DIY Studio, 121 E. Third St., Dayton, OH, 45402
Transform your space with your very own piece of natural wall art! In this hands-on workshop, you’ll use an array of preserved moss and natural elements to design a one-of-a-kind creation. With endless possibilities, you’ll craft something that’s uniquely yours while adding a touch of greenery to your decor. Note: Registrations are transferable, but not refundable. What’s Included: 9″ wood frame, or a 10″ round frame, a variety of preserved mosses and natural accents, take-home boxing to transport your masterpiece safely home and step guidance to bring your vision to life!!

EmpowHer
2026-03-28 12:00 - 15:00 | Dayton Metro Library – Main Library, 215 E. Third Street, Dayton, OH, 45402
EmpowHer, Saturday, March 28, 12-3 pm, Main Library, Eichelberger Forum: EmpowHER honors ten women whose service, resilience, and strength create meaningful change. The 2026 honorees are:

Erin Parrot, owner of Reserve on Third and After5
DeAsia Thompson, clinical social worker/therapist, MSW, LISW-S, LCSW at Rise Counseling Group
Courtney Dortch-Wright, director of Out-of-School-Time programs
LaSue Juniel, owner of DFL Nutrition and Café
Jamica Garrison, DPS school board member and Neighborhood Over Politics
Gena McDonald, founder of Developing Butterflies
Rhea Atkins, owner of Vegan Eats
Lauren Gay, owner of Joui Wine
Latasha Coleman, founder of The Liquor Lab
Charmaine Webster, founder of Womanish Projects

A special honoree is Karen Wick-Gagnet. Presented by NaAsiaha Simon & Associates. (Adults)

Paint & Sip: Spring Flowers Acrylic Blending Workshop
2026-03-28 10:00 - 12:00 | The Dayton Woman’s Club, 225 N Ludlow St, Dayton, OH, 45402, United States
Friday, March 27, 2026 5:30 PM and Saturday, March 28, 2026 10:00 AM
Celebrate the fresh energy of the season with a vibrant spring flower painting in acrylic. This piece captures the softness of blooming petals, gentle light, and the uplifting colors that define springtime renewal.
In this workshop led by local artist Nero Lee, students will learn the art of acrylic blending — a foundational technique that allows colors to transition seamlessly from light to shadow. Through guided instruction, you’ll explore how to soften edges, layer tones, and create depth within petals and backgrounds.
Includes one complimentary drink (wine, beer, or soda) and light snacks. All materials will be provided; no prior experience is required.
Registration required
$50 general admission
$45 DWC member admission
We are open to the general public. Our venue is fully accessible with a ramp entrance.

Sweeten Your Search: Open House at Huffman Lofts!
2026-03-28 09:00 - 11:00 | The Huffman Lofts, 113 E. Third St., Dayton, OH, 45402
Join us this Saturday for a special Open House at The Huffman Lofts in Dayton! Whether you’re searching for your next home or just exploring your options, this is the perfect opportunity to experience modern loft living in a vibrant location. Tour our studio, one-, and two-bedroom apartment homes, designed with stylish finishes and comfortable layouts. While you explore, enjoy complimentary coffee and donuts, and enter for a chance to win exciting raffle prizes. We’re also offering exclusive, limited-time leasing specials, including 5% off rent, flexible 13- and 14-month lease options, and no security deposit—making it easier than ever to make your move. Location: 113 E Third St., Dayton, Ohio Time: 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM Stop by, meet our team, and find your next home—we’d love to welcome you!

Member’s Spotlight Exhibition: Elisha Frontz: vernal equinox
2026-03-28 | The Contemporary Dayton, 25 W. Fourth St., Dayton, OH, 45402, United States
Elisha Frontz: vernal equinox March 4 – 28, 2026 Opening Reception: March 4, 6 – 8 pm Closing Reception: March 28, 4 – 6 pm
Elisha Frontz: vernal equinox features recent work by a Dayton-based artist, musician, and poet. Working with an interdisciplinary sensibility, Frontz allows material investigation and musicality to inform one another. Her process balances technical precision with intuitive gesture, resulting in compositions that feel at once deliberate and emergent. These mixed-media paintings—watercolor on paper combined with sewing patterns, string, and brass tacks—celebrate the vernal equinox, the astronomical beginning of spring in the Northern Hemisphere. As the sun crosses the celestial equator, day and night reach near equilibrium, marking a moment of balance, transition, and renewal that resonates through Frontz’s layered materials and luminous palette. All artworks in this exhibition are available for purchase. Please visit the reception desk or speak to a staff member for more information. Proceeds support both the artist and The Contemporary Dayton’s mission to connect artists and audiences through accessible, engaging contemporary art experiences.

Dayton Silent Disco – Prom Night
2026-03-27 20:00 | The Brightside, 905 E. Third St., Dayton, OH, 45402
Dayton Silent Disco is hosting our annual Prom Night on March 27th at The Brightside Music and Event Venue! Tickets and more details are available at daytonsilentdisco.com KimL will be on the green station with EDM, Sexbox on the blue station with 70s, 80s, and 90s, and John Chapel on the Red station with modern hits! HOW TO GO? Friday, March 27, 2026 Cover starts at 8:00pm with music starting at 8:30pm on Jan 30th! Tickets are $15 in advance and $20 at the doors. Visit daytonsilentdisco.com We’re offering “Group Tickets” – Save 20% when you bring a group of 10! (Pre-sale only) This show is 21+

Discovery: Bill Blagg’s The Science Of Magic
2026-03-27 11:30 | Victoria Theatre, 138 N. Main St., Dayton, OH, 45402, United States
This show is part of our Discovery Series, which presents weekday field trips for area schools to experience carefully selected shows designed to enhance curriculum connections throughout various subject areas. If you are not purchasing tickets for a school or homeschool, please click here to explore our Children’s Theatre programming.
For centuries, magicians have used scientific principles to make people levitate in mid-air and vanish in the blink of an eye. Illusionist Bill Blagg’s one-of-a-kind educational experience, THE SCIENCE OF MAGIC, takes students on a rare, never-before-seen journey “behind the scenes” of the magic world. Students will discover firsthand how magicians use science to create their illusions! Bill’s comedy-filled, action-packed presentation is highly interactive and makes science fun and exciting! Students will use the scientific method to levitate one of their teachers in mid-air and even learn how the science of reflection can make their homework magically disappear! Students will watch in amazement as science creates magic right before their very eyes!
Created and performed by Bill Blagg.

Soap Happens!
2026-03-27 11:00 - 13:00 | 2nd Street Market, 600 E. Second St., Dayton, OH, 45402, USA
Get ready for a sudsy good time. In this hands-on workshop, you’ll create, cut, and gift wrap your very own handmade soap using simple ingredients that can be found at your local grocery store. You’ll walk away with about 40 oz of solid soap (that’s 9 bars, each weighing 5oz and normally $10 a bar)—all crafted by you! Your cost for the workshop is $60.00. It’s a bubbly, creative experience you won’t want to miss! Please register at the following: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/soap-happens-tickets-1977161530361?aff=oddtdtcreator
