Downtown Dayton Partnership

Vinyl Vinyl Sundays
2026-10-04 | The Barrel House, 417 E. Third St., Dayton, OH, 45402, United States
Sunday – Vinyl Vinyl Sunday – bring your records, we’ll play ’em

Open House at the Front Street Studios
2026-10-03 11:00 - 16:00, 2026-10-02 17:00 - 21:00 (America/New_York) | Front Street Galleries, 1001 E. Second St., Dayton, OH, 45402
Let the Front Street Studios be your one-stop-shopping location for art, crafts, photography, vintage retail and so much more. Front Street has 150 studios/stores in 3 different historic buildings. Not only do we have an open-house every first Friday of the month, but we are also open every Saturday from 11AM to 4PM.

Ella Kraimer: Appearances
2026-10-03, 2026-10-02, 2026-10-01, 2026-09-30 | The Contemporary Dayton, 25 W. Fourth St., Dayton, OH, 45402, United States
September 25, 2026 – January 23, 2027
The Contemporary Dayton is proud to present Ella Kraimer: Appearances, a world-premiere exhibition of large-scale photographs. Kraimer transforms herself into a cast of fictional personas through striking self portraits, using secondhand garments gathered from thrift stores across the country. Layered with irony, humor, and cultural critique, she explores the blurred boundaries between authenticity and performance, memory and invention, self and society.
Previously viewed only as a digital project, Appearances reflects on life in an age of social media, image culture, and spectacle. Inspired by childhood memories of paper dolls, Kraimer fragments and reconstructs her own likeness through costume, collage, and assemblage. At once playful and provocative, Appearances invites viewers to reconsider not only the images we create, but the stories they tell about who we are.
Kraimer spent her formative years in Berlin, Germany and is now based in New Bremen, Ohio. She earned a BA in Design and Visual Communication from the University of Europe for Applied Sciences, Berlin, and an MA in Visual and Media Anthropology from HMKW University of Applied Sciences for Media, Communication, and Management, Berlin.
Ella Kraimer: Appearances is part of the 2026 FotoFocus Biennial: The Long View. Now in its eighth iteration, the Biennial activates over 70 exhibitions at museums, galleries, universities, and public spaces throughout Greater Cincinnati, Dayton, Columbus, and Northern Kentucky.
Opening Reception with the artist
Friday, September 25
6-8 pm
Remarks: 6:30 pm

Storytelling and Collage Night
Thursday, October 1
5-8p
Free and open to all.

RSVP Here

Artist Talk
Thursday, November 12
6:30p
Free and open to all.

RSVP Here

Stacy Kranitz: Ain’t No Grave Gonna Hold My Body Down
2026-10-03, 2026-10-02, 2026-10-01, 2026-09-30 | The Contemporary Dayton, 25 W. Fourth St., Dayton, OH, 45402, United States
September 25, 2026 – January 23, 2027
The Contemporary Dayton is proud to present Stacy Kranitz: Ain’t No Grave Gonna Hold My Body Down, the culmination of a landmark multi-year project that challenges long-held stereotypes of Appalachia by Pulitzer Prize–winning photographer Stacy Kranitz.
Featuring more than 40 photographs drawn from historical archives, Kranitz’s own images, historical texts, installations, and an accompanying film, the exhibition examines how Appalachia has been represented—and misrepresented—across generations. Together, these works reveal a region shaped by myth, exploitation, resilience, and the uneasy tension between representation and reality.
The exhibition’s title references the gospel song “Ain’t No Grave,” made famous by Johnny Cash, evoking the resilience and resistance that run throughout the project. Recipient of the prestigious Images Vevey Book Award, Kranitz has published a companion monograph, available for purchase in The Contemporary Dayton’s CoSHOP.
Born in Kentucky and based in the Appalachian Mountains of eastern Tennessee, Kranitz is the recipient of a Pulitzer Prize and a Guggenheim Fellowship, among many other awards. Her work has been exhibited nationally and internationally, and is held in numerous public collections.
Stacy Kranitz: Ain’t No Grave Gonna Hold My Body Down is part of the 2026 FotoFocus Biennial: The Long View. Now in its eighth iteration, the Biennial activates over 70 exhibitions at museums, galleries, universities, and public spaces throughout Greater Cincinnati, Dayton, Columbus, and Northern Kentucky.
Opening Reception
Friday, September 25
6-8 pm
Remarks: 6:30 pm

Artist Talk:
Stacy Kranitz in Conversation with author and professor Andrew Milward
Saturday, October 17
2 pm
Free and open to all.

RSVP Here

Friday Night Karaoke at Two Social
2026-10-02 22:00 (America/New_York) | 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

Downtown Dayton Historic Walking Tours
2026-10-02 17:30 (America/New_York) | 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

First Friday
2026-10-02 17:00 - 21:00 (America/Detroit) | Downtown Dayton
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.

Thursday Night Karaoke at MJ’s
2026-10-01 22:00 (America/New_York) | MJ’s on Jefferson, 20 N. Jefferson St., Dayton, OH, 45402
Come on out for an amazing night of singing and fun at MJ’s on Jefferson! Sign up to sing by utilizing our kiosks that are set up or download the app on your phone of Songbooks Online and sign up then input our show code of MJSONJ to view and submit your song choice or choices via your phone or tablet. Amazing drinks and even pizza available if you start to crave some carbs!

Music Bingo Thursdays
2026-10-01 20:00 (America/New_York) | The Trolley Stop, 530 E. Fifth St., Dayton, OH, 45402, USA
We have music bingo every Thursday! It’s free to play, lots of fun, hosted by KG, and there are prizes galore. Come check it out!

Open Mic Night
2026-10-01 19:30 - 22:30 (America/New_York) | The Barrel House, 417 E. Third St., Dayton, OH, 45402, United States
Open Mic Night – sign up online, then show up and show out.

Music Bingo
2026-10-01 19:00 - 21:00 (America/New_York) | RiverScape MetroPark, 237 E Monument Ave, Dayton, OH, 45402, United States
Turn up the fun and test your knowledge at Music Bingo, where your favorite songs replace the numbers and every round feels like a mini dance party. Grab your friends, sing along, and play for prizes! Settle in by the RiverScape Café with some food and drinks, then see how fast you can match the tunes to your card. The first to hit five in a row takes the win with a variety of prizes, so keep your ears sharp and your bingo marker ready! Music Bingo is free to participate, but we recommend coming early as bingo sheets are limited. The RiverScape Café will be open with a variety of flatbreads, sides, desserts, and refreshments available for purchase. For those 21 and over, there will also be a full menu of cocktails, wine, and beer available for purchase as part of the Downtown Dayton DORA.

Distillery Tour
2026-10-01 18:30 (America/New_York) | Belle of Dayton, 122 Van Buren St., Dayton, OH, 45402
We offer a public distillery tour on the first Thursday of every month at 6:30 p.m. at Belle of Dayton Distillery. The tour is $10 per person and includes a behind-the-scenes look at our copper still, fermentation tanks, bottling line and production process, followed by a guided tasting of our handcrafted spirits. Guests must be 21 or older with a valid ID, and we recommend arriving approximately 30 minutes early to check in at the Van Buren Room and enjoy a cocktail before the tour. Additional information and reservations are available here: https://www.belleofdayton.com/pages/tours

CURIO at Courthouse Square
2026-10-01 12:00 - 14:00, 2026-09-30 12:00 - 14:00, 2026-09-29 12:00 - 14:00 (America/New_York) | Courthouse Square, Third & Main Streets, Dayton, OH, 45422, USA
Free entertainment in the heart of downtown
Throughout the summer months, fun, out-of-the-box entertainment can be found on Courthouse Square, with CURIO serving as the hub of community, connection, and collaboration!
Big ideas can come in small packages, and CURIO is the first step in a larger, longer-term plan to revitalize Courthouse Square. This shipping container transformed into an event hub has been combined with fun outdoor seating and other touches to create downtown’s newest summer hotspot!
FIND THE CALENDAR OF SCHEDULED ENTERTAINMENT HERE:
https://downtowndayton.org/things-to-do/curio/#schedule
Bring your friends and coworkers for a midday break outside!
CURIO features free lunchtime entertainment from noon to 2 p.m. on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays each week during the summer months.
Food vendors also set up on Courthouse Square each weekday, allowing downtown workers and others to grab lunch from a vendor or a downtown restaurant and take in the entertainment while enjoying the outdoors downtown.
Be sure to “Like” CURIO at Courthouse Square on Facebook to get the latest updates on upcoming entertainment and more. You can also request to receive regular emails about what’s planned for CURIO.
If you are interested in performing on the Square or would like more information about CURIO, email events@downtowndayton.org.
CURIO at Courthouse Square is a program of the Downtown Dayton Partnership, with support from Montgomery County.

Wu-Tang Wednesdays
2026-09-30 19:00 - 23:00 (America/New_York) | The Barrel House, 417 E. Third St., Dayton, OH, 45402, United States
Dayton’s legendary Ike B spins old school hip hop and whateva else he wants.

Live Trivia
2026-09-30 18:30 - 20:30 (America/New_York) | Yellow Cab Tavern, 700 E 4th St, Dayton, OH, 45402, United States
We are excited to host live trivia every Wednesday at The Yellow Cab Tavern! Since there are a limited number of indoor tables, so please reserve as soon as possible.
Pepper Sprout Productions will be doing 3 rounds of general trivia from 6:30 – 8:30! Win prizes and gift cards! Watch their page on the day of for a clue about the bonus round theme!
You can enjoy pizza from The Pizza Bandit and beverages from The Yellow Cab Tavern!Pizza Bandit’s standard carryout, delivery, and onsite dining will be available from 4-9pm!

Community Fitness Series: Bootcamp
2026-09-30 18:00 - 19:30 (America/New_York) | RiverScape MetroPark, 237 E Monument Ave, Dayton, OH, 45402, United States
Part of RiverScape Community Fitness series
Bootcamp
6:00pm – 7:30pm
AGE: All ages | FREE

Join The Unit for an exciting bootcamp workout that will take you through RiverScape in a whole new way. Whether you’re running the stairs, doing push ups near the reflecting pools, or stretching along the levee, this effective workout will keep you moving. Combined with the uplifting support of the community members that make up The Unit, this is a workout you will want to make part of your weekly routine. All fitness levels welcome and encouraged! Weather Dependent.
Focus on wellness while spending time in nature. Enjoy a variety of free and effective workouts at RiverScape MetroPark.

Live at Three
2026-09-30 15:00 - 18:00 (America/New_York) | The Garden Grille & Bar at the Hilton Garden Inn, 18 W. Third St., Dayton, OH, 45402, United States
Join us for live music by local artists, happy hour, award winning cocktails and curated bites at the historic Dayton Arcade at the Garden Grille and Bar (Hilton Garden Inn Downtown 2nd floor). Every Wednesday from 3p-6p.

Dayton Historic Haunts Ghost Walk with P3. Presented by Curio
2026-09-30 12:00 - 12:45 (America/New_York) | Courthouse Square, Third & Main Streets, Dayton, OH, 45422, USA
Explore downtown Dayton’s haunted history on a FREE walking tour with P3 Paranormal, presented by Curio (Downtown Dayton Partnership). It’s spooky season, and P3 is excited to share some of her favorite downtown Dayton haunts during this special free walking tour series with Curio Dayton in partnership with Downtown Dayton! Join Paula from P3 Paranormal as she guides you through the streets of downtown Dayton, sharing the legends, lore, and haunted history connected to some of the city’s most fascinating buildings. Along the way, you’ll hear firsthand accounts of paranormal experiences, stories of the spirits said to linger behind historic walls, and the history that makes downtown Dayton such a unique place to explore. If you love local history, enjoy ghost stories, and have ever wondered what might be watching from the windows of Dayton’s historic buildings, this tour is for you. For the past two years, P3 has enjoyed sharing her collection of Dayton ghost stories and paranormal experiences, and she’s thrilled to return for a third season of downtown ghost walks. FREE OF COST – Advance RSVP is required. While this is a free event, space is limited and guests must reserve their spot in advance to attend. Meeting Location: Courthouse Square 23 N Main St, Dayton, OH 45402 Look for the Curio Dayton booth behind the Old Courthouse. Check-In Begins: 11:45 AM Tour Starts Promptly: 12:00 PM Come curious, wear comfortable walking shoes, and discover the haunted side of downtown Dayton! ACCESSIBILITY & AGE: Join us for a 1-mile guided ghost walking tour through historic downtown Dayton. The entire route follows paved, public sidewalks and is accessible for wheelchairs and mobility scooters. This experience is open to all ages, but guests should be able to comfortably stand and walk for the duration of the tour or remain in a seated mobility device throughout. This is a free, timed, reservation-based community walking tour presented by Curio (Downtown Dayton Partnership). Space is limited and advance RSVP is required. Please arrive on time for check-in. Event Access Terms & Conditions: https://www.p3paranormal.com/event-access-terms-conditions

Karaoke with Zane
2026-09-29 20:00 - 23:00 (America/New_York) | Yellow Cab Tavern, 700 E 4th St, Dayton, OH, 45402, United States
Yellow Cab Tavern Karaoke is BACK every Tuesday at 8pm with MC Zane Gerlach!
Entry is always free!
With a catalog of over 60,000 songs, we have your favorites to sing…and if we don’t, we’ll do everything we can to get it for you!
Get your friends and family together and we’ll see you on Tuesday nights at The Yellow Cab Tavern!

Karaoke
2026-09-29 19:00 - 23:00 (America/New_York) | The Barrel House, 417 E. Third St., Dayton, OH, 45402, United States
Tuesdays – Karaoke with @raineyday.entertainment – $5 off full draft flights until 9 p.m.

Artist in Training (AIT) Program
2026-09-29 15:00 - 18:00 (America/New_York) | K12 Gallery & TEJAS, 341 S. Jefferson St., Dayton, OH, 45402
After school Artist in Training program geared for grades 3rd-12th grades. Classes are Monday-Wednesdays from 3:00pm-6:00pm. Open Studio time to explore different types of mediums such as Drawing, Painting, Clay, Digital Art. 20.00 per session for Members/40.00 per session for Non-Members.
