Downtown Dayton Partnership

First Friday
2026-05-01 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.

Open House at the Front Street Studios
2026-05-01 17:00 - 21:00, 2026-05-02 11:00 - 16:00 (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.

ArtEBration Food Truck Rally
2026-05-01 17:00 - 21:00 (America/New_York) | Front Street Galleries, 1001 E. Second St., Dayton, OH, 45402
Front Street Studio’sArtEBration Food Truck Rally1001 E 2nd St, Dayton, OH 45402
May 1st 5pm to 9pm
daytonfoodtruckrallies.com
Front Street Studios is celebrating all of their artist partners on May 1st and we’re bringing the food trucks! Don’t miss this event with tons of open studios, a beer garden, live entertainment, and a food truck rally! Everything is going down from 5pm to 9pm on Friday, May 1st.
Don’t forget to stop into over 100 open artist studios across the campus to check out everything going on!
Entry is always FREE to our family friendly food festivals!
Vendors:
The Food PittRennys HennysDelishQueen’s TableSalty Z’ PretzelsOrder Up Food Truck and CateringWe Do BBQBoss Hogg’s BBQTuesdays Tacos and ChurrosEl MesonEl Beuno TacoHapi-Hapi OishiiThai 1 onSchmidtsDouble E Coffee CoLife’s Lemons
*Please note: Food truck lineup is subject to change

The Primetime Blues Band Live
2026-05-01 19:00 - 21:00 (America/New_York) | Art & Soul Maison, 14 W. First St., Dayton, OH, 45402
See The Primetime Blues Band play live at Art & Soul Maison! Admission is free – a donation to the band is greatly appreciated to cover expenses.

Jazz fusion from crabswithoutlegs & Mycota
2026-05-01 19:30 (America/New_York) | The Brightside, 905 E. Third St., Dayton, OH, 45402
Two acts pushing the boundaries of jazz and sound collide for one night in The Brightside’s Sidedoor Room. Mycota and crabswithoutlegs bring a night of jazz fusion and experimental music that rewards the curious ear — intricate, immersive, and impossible to categorize. HOW TO GO? Friday, May 1st The Brightside SideDoor room (905 E 3rd St, Dayton) Doors 7:30 PM | Show 8:00 PM All Ages $15 Advance / $20 Day of Show Limited reserved tables available. Tickets and info at thebrightsidedayton.com

Forgottonia
2026-05-01 19:30 (America/New_York) | PNC Arts Annex, 46 N. Ludlow St., Dayton, OH, 45402
The name “Forgottonia” first came to Western Illinois in 1972 when 16 counties declared the creation of the independent nation of “Forgottonia” in protest of the lack of tax dollars returning to the region. The plan was to secede from the Union, declare war on the United States, immediately surrender, and then apply for foreign aid. It was nothing but political theatre, but the story was picked up by the national media and to everyone’s surprise, it worked!
FORGOTTONIA is a musical journey through the people and places of rural America, as seen through the eyes of songwriter Chris Vallillo. Combining storytelling and live music with the images of award-winning rural photographer Tim Schroll, this multimedia performance is a moving and lyrical tribute to the land and the people living there.

At The Still Point
2026-05-01 19:30 (America/New_York) | The Benjamin & Marian Schuster Performing Arts Center, 1 West Second Street, Dayton, OH, 45402
In this profound program, pianist Awadagin Pratt performs two concertos written especially for him, both inspired by T.S. Eliot’s Four Quartets. The evening culminates in Mozart’s “Requiem,” a choral masterpiece that traverses the depths of human existence. From the haunting “Introit” to the fiery “Dies Irae” and the ethereal “Lacrimosa,” “Requiem” captures the dance of life and death, the tension between stillness and motion, and the journey from mortality to transcendence.

Gem City Burlesque “Bourbon Swing” with live music
2026-05-01 19:30 - 22:30 (America/New_York) | The Brightside, 905 E. Third St., Dayton, OH, 45402
Bourbon Swing — Live Jazz & Burlesque Friday, May 1st The Brightside Music & Event Venue is thrilled to welcome back Gem City Burlesque for Bourbon Swing, a night of live jazz and showgirl spectacle perfect for kicking off the month of May. Taking the stage is Ayn & the High Standards, whose swinging jazz sound sets the scene for an evening of glamour and groove. Gem City’s talented cast — featuring dancers Salem LeFay, Vanta Black, and Eris Minx alongside producers Lily Datura and Aurora Maur — brings the bumps, grinds, and old-school showgirl magic. Friday, May 1st Doors open at 6:30 PM. Show starts at 7:30 PM. Grab your tickets at gemcityburlesque.com/events

Henry Cho: The Empty Nest Tour
2026-05-01 20:00 (America/New_York) | Victoria Theatre, 138 N. Main St., Dayton, OH, 45402, United States
On February 11, comedian Henry Cho was inducted as the 229th member of the Grand Ole Opry. This prestigious honor has not been extended to a comedian since 1973. Henry’s TV credits include appearances on NBC’s “The Tonight Show,” CBS’s “The Late, Late, Show,” and NBC’s “Young Comedians Special.” He served two years as host of NBC’s “Friday Night Videos” and had many guest roles on various network sitcoms. Henry was co-creator, co-producer, and co-writer of “The Henry Cho Show” on GAC. Henry’s one-hour Comedy Central special, “What’s That Clickin’ Noise?” was also on Netflix. Henry can also be heard daily on SiriusXM, Blue Collar Radio, and Pandora.

Friday Night Karaoke at Two Social
2026-05-01 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

Wegerzn’s May Fair at the Market
2026-05-02 09:00 - 15:00 (America/New_York) | 2nd Street Market, 600 E. Second St., Dayton, OH, 45402, USA
The annual, multi-day spring plant sale hosted by Wegerzyn Gardens Foundation will have both annuals and perennials. All profit goes to the Foundation which connects nature and people.

2nd Street Market Farmer’s Market Season Opening
2026-05-02 09:00 - 15:00 (America/New_York) | 2nd Street Market, 600 E. Second St., Dayton, OH, 45402, USA
Local growers, along with many new artisans, will join the year-round vendors for one of Dayton’s most unique shopping experiences. You’ll find all your favorite season produce, delicious, prepared food, and handcrafted specialty items all season long. This seasonal market is open on Saturdays and Sundays through October 25th.

Instructed Nude Figure Drawing, Instructor: Greg Dearth
2026-05-02 09:30 - 12:00 (America/New_York) | Dayton Society of Artists, 48 High Street, Dayton, OH, 45402, United States
Join us for a focused and immersive experience in academic figure drawing. This instructed nude figure drawing session offers artists the opportunity to deepen their understanding of anatomy, proportion, gesture, and light through guided study from a live nude model.
Led by Greg Dearth, each session includes structured instruction, demonstrations, and individualized feedback. Artists will work through a range of timed poses designed to strengthen observational skills and refine technique in a serious, supportive studio environment.
Participants are asked to bring their own drawing materials. Suggested supplies are listed below, but artists are welcome to work in the dry medium of their choice. Please bring any drawing board, easel, or preferred paper needed for your practice.
Time will also be dedicated to thoughtful critique and discussion, allowing space for experimentation, technical growth, and meaningful artistic exchange.
Come ready to observe closely, draw confidently, and engage deeply in the enduring tradition of figure study.
Cost:

Members: $20
Non Members: $30
Pre-registration Required by April 25, 2026
Suggested Supply List
Supplies are not included. Please bring what you prefer to work with.
1 – 18″ x 24″ drawing pad
(Strathmore 400 Series recommended)
1 – 18″ x 24″ newsprint pad
A couple of HB drawing pencils
One 2B pencil
One or two medium charcoal pencils
1 kneaded eraser
Drawing board large enough to accommodate 18″ x 24″ pads
A couple of binder clips
Small utility knife for sharpening pencils
Small pad or piece of sandpaper
Location:
Dayton Society of Artists, 48 High Street, Dayton 45403
Date & Time:
Saturday, May 2. 930AM-12PM

Saturday Art Workshops
2026-05-02 11:00 - 13:00 (America/New_York) | K12 Gallery & TEJAS, 341 S. Jefferson St., Dayton, OH, 45402
Saturday Art Workshops for Kindergarten-12th Grade and Adults. Each month explore a different art medium (Clay, Painting, Printmaking, Sculpture, Mosaics, Drawing, Photography, in a different theme/artistic style (K-12th grade). For Adults classes in Mosaics, Stained Glass, and Glassblowing. Saturday Classes run from September 2025-May 2026. 11:00am-1:00pm. Call for Costs.

Dayton Public Schools All-City Arts Festival
2026-05-02 11:00 - 14:00 (America/New_York) | RiverScape MetroPark, 237 E Monument Ave, Dayton, OH, 45402, United States
Dayton Public Schools All-City Arts Festival
11:00am – 2:00pm
AGE: All ages | FREE
Join us for an exciting afternoon as Dayton Public Schools presents the All-City Arts Festival! Arts students across the district will be performing as well as displaying artwork and art demonstrations. Dayton Speaks winners will be performing their winning works and there will be a community chalk drawing. Food trucks and other vendors will also be participating. Bring your lawn chair and plan on spending a wonderful time eating and enjoying the many talents of K-12 Arts students! Weather Dependent.

8th Annual Oregon District Derby Day
2026-05-02 12:00 - 18:00 (America/New_York) | Oregon District, Fifth Street, Dayton, OH, 45402
It’s that time! Join us for the 8th Annual Oregon District Derby Day, rain or shine, on May 2nd!
This event is sponsored by Tito’s and proceeds are benefiting The Humane Society who will be here with adoptable puppies!
The Gem City Roller Derby will be outside of Blind Bob’s to officially launch its 20th Anniversary season.
THE Nick Testa will be DJing all day, including during the famous Derby Day Clash fashion show!
To wrap up the event, join us in the Trolley Stop plaza for the 3rd Annual Derby Day hotdog eating contest, sponsored by Trolley Stop.
Don’t forget about DORA! Ask your bartender for their Derby Day drink special and bring a drink out to watch the festivities.
Look for Stacie to buy tickets for the 50/50 raffle- she’ll be running around all day!
NOON – Dog Registration begins – or you can pre-register via the link belowhttp://www.theoregondistrict.org/derby-day-dog…
1:30 – Dog Registration ends
2PM – Weenie race starts!
3PM – Clash Fashion Show
4PM – Trolley Stops’s Hotdog Eating Contest ($10 via the link http://www.theoregondistrict.org/…/hotdog-eating…)

Derby Day at The Century
2026-05-02 15:00 (America/New_York) | The Century Bar, 10 S. Jefferson St., Dayton, OH, 45402
Don your Derby finery and join us for the 152nd running of the Kentucky Derby! This year is extra special because we will be celebrating the Century’s 30th year with Diane Spitzig as owner.– Cake & Charcuterie– Catch all the action on our big screens!– Per tradition, the mint juleps will be flowing.– Hat Contest! Bring your boldest brims, and you could win a prize!

Q Theatre: Arts In Healing
2026-05-02 18:00 (America/New_York) | PNC Arts Annex, 46 N. Ludlow St., Dayton, OH, 45402
Join Dayton Live for an evening arts workshop! Using theatre, writing, movement, and fine arts, connect with other teens in the area while sharing your creativity. This reflective creative workshop will use various art forms to support teen wellness and emotional expression.
Q Theatre engages LGBTQ+ teens and their allies to participate in fun and judgment-free experiences while inviting them to be their authentic selves, build community, strengthen identity, and express their lived experiences through the performing arts.

The Figureheads of Dayton & Catsteel
2026-05-02 19:00 - 23:00 (America/New_York) | The Brightside, 905 E. Third St., Dayton, OH, 45402
Pull up a chair and let the music do the talking. The Figureheads of Dayton and Catsteel bring an evening of Americana / bluegrass to The Brightside’s SideDoor on Saturday, May 2nd. Enjoy two local bands, one cozy room, and the kind of music that makes a Saturday night feel like it’s supposed to. HOW TO GO: Saturday, May 2nd Music 7–11pm (Doors at 6pm) The Brightside — SideDoor room, 905 E. 3rd St., Dayton $10 at the door (seating available) All ages welcome. https://eventvesta.com/events/143237/t/tickets

Summer Thrills at the Donor Center: Donate blood for Kings Island Tickets
2026-05-04 | Versiti, 349 S. Main St., Dayton, OH, 45402
Start the summer with a thrill! Donate blood May 4-9 in our Dayton Donor Center (349 S. Main Street) to get 1 FREE ticket to Kings Island amusement park as our thank you. But act fast – these tickets are limited, while supplies last! Donors may choose instead a $15 Kroger gift card if not interested in a Kings Island ticket. Don’t miss out on the fun – schedule your donation now! Visit VersitiDayton.org/blood-donation and schedule an appointment at the Donor Center May 4-9 or call (937) 461-3220. Walk-ins welcome! Did you know? More than 300 donors are needed every day in Dayton to keep the blood supply stable for local hospitals and local patients. Be a local hero. Donate blood! Donor Center hours are Monday-Thursday 7 am-6 pm, Friday 7 am- 4 pm, and Saturday 7 am-1 pm. The Donor Center is located at 349 S. Main Street, Dayton, Oh. Link if needed: https://donate.versitidayton.org/donor/schedules/center/1

Community Fitness: BootyMix
2026-05-04 18:00 - 19:00 (America/New_York) | RiverScape MetroPark, 237 E Monument Ave, Dayton, OH, 45402, United States
Learn to love the raw, unedited version of yourself through dance fitness. BootyMix is a mixture of booty-centric experiences that make you feel alive and give you the confidence to take back your life through community, movement, and music. When you walk out of class, you’ll feel more connected to your body, more confident in your worth, and ready to take on the world like the unstoppable force you are!

Community Fitness: Bootcamp
2026-05-04 18:00 - 19:30 (America/New_York) | RiverScape MetroPark, 237 E Monument Ave, Dayton, OH, 45402, United States
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!

Community Fitness: Trailblazers HIIT & Run
2026-05-04 19:30 - 20:30 (America/New_York) | RiverScape MetroPark, 237 E Monument Ave, Dayton, OH, 45402, United States
Summer activities that make your body happy and healthy. Led by Fire Flame Fitness, this HIIT workout class is for everyone, including beginners and low impact participants. Come as you are! Be prepared to walk/jog after class.

Bagels & Broadway: Mrs. Doubtfire
2026-05-05 08:30 - 20:30 (America/New_York) | 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 MRS. DOUBTFIRE!
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.

Community Fitness: Tai Chi & Qigong at the River
2026-05-05 18:00 - 19:00 (America/New_York) | RiverScape MetroPark, 237 E Monument Ave, Dayton, OH, 45402, United States
Offered by Immortal Tree Qigong. Each hour-long Tai Chi & Qigong session will start with breathing exercises, warm up, and gentle movements. You will then be guided through flowing movements that are part of the Tai Chi 24 form mixed with short standing meditations. We will end with a slightly longer guided standing (or sitting) meditation. This should leave a few minutes to answer questions or discuss any insights. Qigong and Tai Chi don’t require any special skills (other than breathing) or equipment (other than your body).

Mrs. Doubtfire
2026-05-05 19:30 (America/New_York) | The Benjamin & Marian Schuster Performing Arts Center, 1 West Second Street, Dayton, OH, 45402
Everyone’s favorite Scottish nanny is headed to Dayton in this internationally acclaimed hit musical critics call “wonderful, heart-warming, and laugh-out-loud funny” (Manchester Evening News) and “a feel-good, family-friendly comedy that delivers” (The Hollywood Reporter). Based on the beloved film, MRS. DOUBTFIRE tells the hysterical and heartfelt story of an out-of-work actor who will do anything for his kids. It’s “the lovable, big-hearted musical comedy we need right now,” raves the Chicago Tribune – one that proves we’re better together.

Teresa Olavarria: Lichen
2026-05-06 | The Contemporary Dayton, 25 W. Fourth St., Dayton, OH, 45402, United States
The Contemporary Dayton is pleased to present Teresa Olavarria: Lichen, featuring new work by Dayton-based artist Teresa Olavarria and presented as our May Member Spotlight Exhibition that celebrates the vibrant creativity of our local and regional artist community. The exhibition opens Wednesday, May 6 with a public reception from 6–8 PM.
Working in vitreous enamel on copper and patinated cast bronze, Olavarria translates the ephemeral qualities of lichen into enduring materials. Her meticulous processes include layering and firing glass onto metal, and casting bronze from wax models, resulting in richly textured forms that echo the organic structures found in nature. Through this transformation, fragile organisms are preserved in metal, becoming both study and tribute.
“The works in Teresa Olavarria: Lichen invites viewers to reconsider what they see and what they overlook,” says Heather Jones, Curator and Director of Programs and Engagement at The Contemporary Dayton. “It’s about slowing down, looking closely, and recognizing the complexity and interconnectedness of the natural world.”
Olavarria lives and works in Dayton, Ohio. A graduate of the University of Dayton’s Fine Arts program, her practice is informed by close observation, scientific curiosity, and a deep appreciation for nature. Olavarria has taught extensively throughout the region and is affiliated with numerous arts organizations, including The Contemporary Dayton.
All artworks in the exhibition are available for purchase, with proceeds supporting both the artist and The Contemporary Dayton’s mission to connect artists and audiences through accessible, engaging contemporary art experiences.
Open to all current artist members, the Member Spotlight Exhibitions are an ongoing series that offers participants the unique opportunity to present a focused body of work in a solo exhibition at The Contemporary Dayton. Each exhibition is installed in The T. Chase Hale & Jonathan A. Hale Gallery and remains on view for one month, opening with a public reception on the first Wednesday and continuing through the last Saturday of the month. These exhibitions not only highlight the diverse practices and perspectives of our members but also provide a professional platform for artists to gain visibility and engage directly with audiences. Participation in the Member Spotlight series is one of the many valuable benefits of being an artist member of The Contemporary Dayton.

Guided Tour of The Dayton Woman’s Club
2026-05-06 13:00 - 14:00 (America/New_York) | The Dayton Woman’s Club, 225 N Ludlow St, Dayton, OH, 45402, United States
Take a guided tour of this historic Victorian mansion, circa 1850! Learn about the building’s history and the founding women who were community leaders and used the Club to promote music, art, education, civil rights, and suffrage.
House tours are typically given on the first Wednesday of the month at 1pm – dates subject to change.
ADVANCE ONLINE TICKET PURCHASE REQUIRED: $10 per person suggested donation

DLCA Family Broadway Studio: Mrs. Doubtfire
2026-05-06 16:30 (America/New_York) | PNC Arts Annex, 46 N. Ludlow St., Dayton, OH, 45402
DLCA FAMILY BROADWAY STUDIO: MRS. DOUBTFIRE offers families a distinctive opportunity to immerse themselves in the world of Broadway. In addition to enjoying the Dayton Live Broadway Series presentation of MRS. DOUBTFIRE, families will participate in an exclusive workshop (led by a touring cast member when available), savor a complimentary preshow dinner, and collect special tour merchandise. This experience is designed to create lasting memories for families, making each visit a unique and cherished adventure into the heart of Broadway.
