Downtown Dayton Partnership

Temporary Exhibit: Ordinary Lives
2026-03-07, 2026-03-06 | The International Peace Museum, 10 N. Ludlow St., Dayton, OH, 45402
“Ordinary Lives imagines Palestinian existence as an unbroken continuum—a lineage of care, memory, and everyday beauty that stretches from ancient ritual to the present moment. Across the gallery, Mona Gazala’s photographic works and George Harb’s intimate family archive come together to affirm that Palestinian life is shaped not solely by survival, but by an enduring inheritance of joy, dignity, and deep interior worlds.

In Gazala’s images, ancestral echoes surface through gestures and objects that bridge archaeology and lived experience. Portraits that invoke ancient forms of veneration and photographs that draw on the quiet symbolism of archaeological fragments work in concert to honor the overlooked, the ordinary, and the deeply rooted. Whether reimagining the visual language of early ancestral practices or elevating humble shards as vessels of story, these works collectively underscore a truth that stretches across millennia: what persists is reverence—reverence for family, land, and the accumulated layers of Palestinian life.

These themes resonate through the collage of George Harb’s archival videos and photographs spanning the diaspora, Ramallah, Jerusalem, and greater Palestine. His extensive family documentation—childhood scenes, celebrations, rites of passage, and landscapes of home—reveals generations living with tenderness, intuition, and grounded connection. It offers a glimpse of Palestinian joy and interiority, sustained independently of external forces and carried forward despite trauma.

Together, Gazala’s contemporary works and Harb’s historical archive form a unified narrative of continuity: a testament to the ancient and ongoing pulse of Palestinian life. Their stories—rooted in ritual, memory, everyday gestures, and deep familial ties—assert that Palestinian presence has never been broken.”

Sandra Aska, Andy Holliday, & Paul Rienzo Exhibits
2026-03-07, 2026-03-06, 2026-03-05, 2026-03-04 | Galleries at Sinclair College, 444 W. Third St., Bldg. 13, Dayton, OH, 45402
The Sinclair Community College Art Department is pleased to present works by Sandra Aska, Andy Holliday, and Paul Rienzo in the Burnell R. Roberts Triangle Gallery and Works on Paper Gallery. Capturing moments of perplexity, quirkiness, thoughtfulness, and beauty, Aska gives clay life through her figurative sculptures. Toolmarks and fingerprints left in the works imbue an expressionistic looseness to the forms. She works intuitively by allowing each form to emerge from the clay and invites the viewer to offer their own interpretation. Holliday’s non-representational prints stem from images that are observed, recorded, and repeatedly reprocessed through systems to alter them. Exploring the idea of attention as a measure of value, he gathers an archive of media to process, builds complexity, and subsequently creates the final work through traditional printmaking techniques. Rienzo’s photorealistic still life paintings explore archetypal themes found across cultures and historical periods. The depicted objects are laden with symbolic power and when combined with others from differing cultures and eras, explore the idea of untold myths and interconnectivity. There will be a virtual artist talk via Zoom on February 20, 2026, at 12pm. Visit www.sinclair.edu/artgalleries for details. The exhibitions will be on display from February 10 – March 13, 2026. Galleries are located on the fourth floor of building 13 (located at West Fifth and Perry Streets). The galleries are free and open to the public from 8am–6pm Monday–Friday and 9am–12pm Saturdays. Free and accessible parking is located in Parking Lot K.

RESILIENCE
2026-03-07, 2026-03-06, 2026-03-05 | Edward A. Dixon Gallery, 222 N. St. Clair St., Dayton, OH, 45402
Resilience opens at the Edward A. Dixon Gallery on February 5th featuring several local artists ranging from a University Student to 30 year career artists. This exhibition is the gallery’s response to Black History month and features images that are powerful, regal and positive. Please, mark your calendars for the Opening Reception on Thursday, February 5th from 5pm-8pm. The exhibition dates are February 5th through March 15th.

Scythian – Celtic Rock
2026-03-06 19:00 - 22:30 (America/New_York) | The Brightside, 905 E. Third St., Dayton, OH, 45402
Get ready for an amazing live experience with SCYTHIAN at The Brightside in Dayton! SCYTHIAN returns to The Brightside to shamrock the house and get Dayton cranked for St. Patrick’s Day. Don’t miss out on a night filled with great tunes, good company, and unforgettable memories. Make sure to swing by and enjoy the show in person—it’s gonna be epic! UPGRADE to VIP experience with MEET n’ GREET HAPPY HOUR with the band and get GUARANTEED PREMIUM SEATING. Tickets $20/advance, $27 day of show, ALL AGES (chaperone under 16). HOW TO GO? Friday, March 6, 2026 5pm – VIP Doors 6pm – General Admission Doors General Admission $20 in advance General Admission $27 at the door VIP $60 Get advance tickets here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/scythian-at-the-brightside-in-dayton-tickets-1977307467864 ALL AGES SHOW!

Friday Night Paint-In
2026-03-06 18:00 - 20:00, 2026-03-06 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

Open House at the Front Street Studios
2026-03-06 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.

First Friday
2026-03-06 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.

Living Legacy: The Permanent Collection of The Dayton Society of Artists
2026-03-06 12:00 - 17:00 (America/New_York) | Dayton Society of Artists, 48 High Street, Dayton, OH, 45402, United States
Founded in 1938, the Dayton Society of Artists (DSA) has been a vital part of the Miami Valley’s cultural landscape for more than eight decades, dedicated to connecting, supporting, and educating artists and the community. The DSA Permanent Collection reflects this enduring legacy, preserving works by past and present members whose practices span generations, media, and artistic approaches. Featuring artists such as Edward Burroughs, Rosalie Lowery, Jane Reese, Gerald Jerry Page, Siegfried Weng, and Robert Koepnick, this exhibition offers a glimpse into the creative voices that have shaped the organization over time. Together, these works function not only as individual expressions, but as a living record of the Dayton Society of Artists’ ongoing commitment to artistic excellence, experimentation, and community engagement.

Music Bingo Thursdays
2026-03-05 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
2026-03-05 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.

Oscar’s
2026-03-05 19:30 (America/New_York) | THE NEON, United States
Overview
Joshua Matthieu of Alpha Marshall Productions is premiering his latest film at THE NEON on March 5. “At a neighborhood bar, a lonely mechanic, named Steven (JM Ward), and an overworked PR professional, named Audra (Lizzie Salata), meet by chance and form an unexpected bond. As their connection deepens, love collides with ambition, forcing them to confront what truly matters. OSCAR’S is a tender, grounded story about timing, vulnerability, and the courage it takes to choose love in a world that never slows down.”
Director
Joshua Matthieu
Producer
Joshua Matthieu
Cast
Lizzie Salata, JM Ward, Timmion Lichtenburg, Melany Burk, Malarie Williamson

Community Workshop – Flourish and Flow: An Oil Painting Journey
2026-03-05 17:30 - 19:30 (America/New_York) | The Dayton Art Institute, 456 Belmonte Park N, Dayton, OH, 45405, United States
Our artist-led workshops are designed to make community connections between our guests, local artists, and The Dayton Art Institute through conversation and artmaking. Flourish and Flow: An Oil Painting Journey Date: Thursdays, April 10, 17 and 24, and May 1 and 8 – 5:30–7:30 p.m Cost: $100 for museum members; $125 for non-members Ages: 18+ In this multi-session workshop series, local artist Jamaal Durr leads participants through an exploration of the fundamentals of oil painting. Sessions will focus on layering, blending, and texture while developing skills through the creation of personalized artwork featuring birth flowers. Jamaal Durr, a Contemporary Artist, is recognized for his figurative works that intimately blend reality and the surreal. Using materials like oil paint, charcoal, and graphite, he explores themes of identity and self-reflection through his timely narratives. Jamaal has expanded his capacity within the realm of Art, having also gained experience as a Curator, Teacher, and Muralist. Jamaal is primarily self-taught, having only received a couple of years of formal training at Stivers School for the Arts in Dayton, OH and a brief stint studying architecture at Pratt Institute in Brooklyn, NY.

LaunchPad
2026-03-05 09:00 - 17:00 (America/New_York) | The Hub powered by PNC Bank, 31 S. Main St., Dayton, OH, 45402
LaunchPad brings together the Dayton entrepreneurial community to learn, connect, and grow. It’s where business takes off!

This free, community-focused event series is designed for entrepreneurs, small business owners, and creatives who want practical tools and meaningful connections. From January to July, each gathering offers expert-led sessions, panel discussions, and networking opportunities that deliver actionable insights you can put to work right away. Together, these events build momentum leading up to Launch Dayton Startup Week, taking place from September 1–3, 2026.
Event Schedule

9:00 am – Doors Open
9:30–11:00 am – Speed Networking Sessions
11:00–11:45 am – Ashley Bethard: Becoming Newsworthy
12:00–1:00 pm – Panel Discussion: How People Find You
1:15–2:00 pm – Bryan Suddith: Own Your Story
2:30–4:00 pm – Happy Hour & Networking (Drinks provided)
5:00 pm – Doors Close

Breakfast, lunch, and happy hour drinks provided!
Guest Speakers

Ashley Bethard, Editor of Dayton Daily News and Chief Content Officer of Cox First Media (presenter, panalist)
Bryan Suddith, Mayor, City of Kettering and Deputy Director of Montgomery County Veteran Services Commission (presenter, panalist)
Jon Powell, Managing Partner at Christopher & Mae Design Company (panalist)
Panel moderator: TBD

Presentation Topics

Become Newsworthy: Who to pitch, how to pitch, and what makes your story journalist-ready.
How People Find You: Different channels working together to help the right audience discover your brand.
Own Your Story: Craft a compelling and authentic story about yourself and your business.

Title Sponsor: Fifth Third Bank
We extend our sincere gratitude to Fifth Third Bank, our title sponsor, for their continued commitment to supporting innovation and entrepreneurship across the Launch Dayton community. Their partnership helps us keep these events free and accessible for all.
Learn more at https://launchdayton.com/events/launchpad

Wu-Tang Wednesdays
2026-03-04 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
2026-03-04 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!

Adult Weekday Classes
2026-03-04 18:00 - 20:00, 2026-03-04 14:00 - 16:00, 2026-03-04 13:00 - 15:00, 2026-03-03 15:30 - 17:30 (America/New_York) | K12 Gallery & TEJAS, 341 S. Jefferson St., Dayton, OH, 45402
Tuesday and Wednesday weekday classes: Tuesdays (September-May) Stained Glass Classes: 1:00pm-3:00pm Ceramics/Clay Classes: 3:00pm-5:00pm Glassblowing Classes: 3:30pm-5:30pm Wednesdays (September-May) Still Life Oil Painting Classes: 1:00pm-3:00pm Glassblowing Classes: 2:00pm-4:00pm or 6:00pm-8:00pm. Call for Costs.

Lent Taizé Services of Prayer and Meditation
2026-03-04 18:00 - 18:40 (America/New_York) | Westminster Presbyterian Church, 125 N. Wilkinson St., Dayton, OH, 45402
February 25; March 4, 11, 18, 25 (Wednesdays) – 6:00-6:40 p.m. Taizé Service of Prayer and Meditation – Westminster Presbyterian Church, 125 N. Wilkinson St., Downtown Dayton – a light supper follows each service.

Artist in Training (AIT) Program
2026-03-04 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.

Karaoke with Zane
2026-03-03 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
2026-03-03 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.
