“The Faces of Pride” photos by Rick Flynn presented by The Dayton Society of Artist
2026-07-03 | The North Arcade Gallery, 24 W. Third St., Dayton, OH, 45402
Faces of Pride Join us for a special reception for Faces of Pride, a powerful and evolving exhibition celebrating the diversity of the LGBTQ+ community in the Dayton and Miami Valley region. Artist Trading Cards Community Project Led by Joy Johnson, this interactive project invites attendees to create and exchange artist trading cards, offering a creative way to share identity, expression, and connection. Reception: Friday, June 5, 2026 5:00–7:00 PM Location: North Arcade Gallery Exhibition Dates: May 22 – July 4, 2026 Free and open to the public. Light refreshments will be provided. Exhibition Statement Faces of Pride was designed to showcase the diversity within the LGBTQ+ community in the Dayton/Miami Valley area of Ohio. This project is a living, breathing reflection of community and will continue to grow as long as individuals choose to participate and share their stories. Presented in partnership with the Greater Dayton LGBT Center and Dayton Metro Library, with support from the Montgomery County Arts and Cultural District. Exhibition runs May 22-July 3, 2026 Hours W-F 10-6PM and Saturday 9-3PM.

Fighters for Freedom: William H. Johnson Picturing Justice
2026-07-03, 2026-07-04, 2026-07-05 | The Dayton Art Institute, 456 Belmonte Park N, Dayton, OH, 45405, United States
June 27–September 13, 2026, Gallery 120
William 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.
Of 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.”

Niki Johnson: Pillars of Democracy
2026-07-03, 2026-07-04 | The Contemporary Dayton, 25 W. Fourth St., Dayton, OH, 45402, United States
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.
Constructed 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.
Built 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.
Presented 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.
Johnson 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.

OPENING NIGHT / Wednesday, July 1
Member & Sponsor Preview: 5-6 pm
Public Reception: 6-8 pm
Artist Talk: 6:30 pm

Exhibit: Our Fire Is Stronger Than Your Bombs
2026-07-03, 2026-07-04 | The International Peace Museum, 10 N. Ludlow St., Dayton, OH, 45402
On February 24, 2022, Russia launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine. The war continues until now, ruining the lives of millions of people and uprooting the principles of civilized life as we know it. The goal of the exhibition is to raise awareness of the war still raging in the heart of Europe. Our exhibit showcases some of the brilliant artworks of contemporary Ukrainian illustrators living and working in Ukraine, sometimes, with no power, water, cell signal, or Internet connection. Many of them have long collaborated with global media, in particular The New Yorker, The Atlantic, Zeit, Adweek, and other outlets. The 25 posters on display have been created by 9 emerging and well-established illustrators since the start of the full-scale invasion. A poster, as a form of fine art blending imagery and text, is a convenient and iconic statement, a means of rapid, shareable response to the urgent events and personal emotions they trigger. In the context of the massive information war, illustrators have become the voices of the art community, and their activism adds tangible strength to the ‘cultural troops’ who fight propaganda every day, broadcasting facts through artistic images and defending the truth as eyewitnesses.

Lights in Flight
2026-07-03 11:30 - 22:30 (America/New_York) | RiverScape MetroPark, 237 E Monument Ave, Dayton, OH, 45402, United States
The City of Dayton invites residents and visitors to join in the America 250 celebration on Friday, July 3, with a day of family-friendly activities: a downtown Dayton parade and afternoon street fair, followed by the annual Lights in Flight fireworks display.

Timeline for the day:

11:30 a.m. – 4 p.m. – Street Fair at and around RiverScape MetroPark featuring food vendors, games, kids zone, and more
12 p.m. – Dayton’s America 250 parade (starts at St. Clair Street/East Second Street, ends at Patterson Boulevard/North Jefferson Street)
10 p.m. – Lights in Flight fireworks launched from Kettering Field

Kettering Field is currently undergoing construction of new and improved outdoor sports facilities and will be closed to the public and vehicle parking, but the fireworks will be visible from surrounding areas. Fireworks viewers are encouraged to plan parking and viewing locations in advance.

For information and updates visit daytonohio.gov/lightsinflight.

First Friday
2026-07-03 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
2026-07-03 17:00 - 21:00, 2026-07-04 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.

Kayak Rentals with Taiters Kayak
2026-07-03 17:00 - 21:00 (America/New_York)
Part of RiverScape Kayak Rentals series
Kayak Rentals with Taiters Kayak
5:00pm – 9:00pm
AGE: 10 and up | $15.00, $25.00, $60.00

Paddle 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.
Get out and paddle on the Great Miami River with Taiters Kayak at RiverScape MetroPark!

Urban Laffs
2026-07-03 19:00 - 22:00 (America/New_York) | The LightHaus, 510 E. Fifth St., Dayton, OH, 45402, United States
Urban Laffs Comedy Show is bringing high-caliber stand-up comedy, live entertainment before and after the show, and an unforgettable night of laughs. Whether it’s date night or a night out with the crew, this is the comedy experience everyone will be talking about. Seats are limited and expected to go fast – secure your tickets today before they’re gone! https://bit.ly/urbanlaffs9

Dayton Dragons vs. Lansing Lugnuts
2026-07-03 19:05, 2026-07-04 19:05, 2026-07-05 13:05 (America/New_York) | Day Air Ballpark, 220 North Patterson Blvd., Dayton, OH, 45402
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.

HYRYDER – A Grateful Dead Tribute
2026-07-03 20:00 - 23:30 (America/New_York) | The Brightside, 905 E. Third St., Dayton, OH, 45402
The night before the nation turns 250, step into the timeless world of the Grateful Dead with Hyryder, a tribute band devoted to the improvisation, exploration, and freewheeling joy that defined a generation. There’s no more fitting soundtrack for America’s birthday eve than the Dead’s own brand of red-white-and-blue Americana—so come wave that flag, raise a glass, and let the good times roll. With passion and authenticity, Hyryder brings the legendary Dead catalog roaring back to life—every jam a journey, every song an invitation to let go. This is where the spirit of Jerry Garcia and the Grateful Dead lives on. Take the ride and ring in the semiquincentennial the only way that makes sense: together, on our feet, lost in the music. HOW TO GO? The Brightside (905 E 3rd St, Dayton) Friday, July 3, 2026 Doors 7PM · Show 8PM *$15 GA advance · $20 day of show Reserved tables available — limited! All ages

Friday Night Karaoke at Two Social
2026-07-03 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

Threads of History: Quilts by Carolyn Mazloomi
2026-07-04 | The Contemporary Dayton, 25 W. Fourth St., Dayton, OH, 45402, United States
June 12-September 12, 2026
Threads of History: Quilts by Carolyn Mazloomi is a landmark solo exhibition by award-winning artist, historian, and curator Dr. Carolyn Mazloomi. Now an octogenarian, Mazloomi remains one of the most visionary leaders in contemporary quilting, widely recognized for her lifelong efforts to elevate African American quilt traditions. Her striking black-and-white quilts memorialize the lives and legacies of African American freedom fighters, capturing resilience, resistance, and remembrance through bold imagery and layered narrative. Originally trained as an aerospace engineer, Mazloomi shifted her focus in the 1980s to advocate for African American quilt artists whose contributions had long been marginalized. Through her scholarship, mentorship, and the founding of the Women of Color Quilters Network, she has transformed the cultural landscape, bringing international recognition to quilting as both fine art and historical record. Her extraordinary impact has been recognized with numerous honors, including the Bess Lomax Hawes NEA National Heritage Fellowship, a United States Artists Fellowship, and an American Craft Council Honorary Fellowship. Her work is held in major collections, including the Smithsonian Institution and the American Folk Art Museum. Opening Reception: June 12, 2026, 6-8 p.m.

Vinyl Vinyl Sundays
2026-07-05 | The Barrel House, 417 E. Third St., Dayton, OH, 45402, United States
Sunday – Vinyl Vinyl Sunday – bring your records, we’ll play ’em

4th of July Weekend: The Foundry’s Rooftop Summer BBQ Buffet
2026-07-05 11:00 - 18:00 (America/New_York) | The Foundry, 124 Madison St., Dayton, OH, 45402, United States
Join The Foundry above the city this 4th of July weekend for a rooftop BBQ on Sunday, July 5 featuring your BBQ favorites: slow-smoked baby back ribs, marinated flank steak, backyard classics, and all the homestyle sides you can handle (yes, there is warm cornbread with honey butter). Pair your plate with spectacular skyline views and one of their signature beverage experiences, like a Bottomless Mimosa, Rooftop Spritz package, or their Old Forester Old Fashioned Duo. Buy your tickets now on OpenTable! https://www.thefoundryrooftop.com/event/the-foundry-rooftop-summer-bbq-buffet/

Liz Quay, Jayne Struble, and Kathy McGhee Art Exhibits
2026-07-06, 2026-07-07 | Galleries at Sinclair College, 444 W. Third St., Bldg. 13, Dayton, OH, 45402
The Sinclair Community College Art Department is pleased to present “Marks & Stitches” by Liz Quay & Jayne Struble in the Burnell R. Roberts Triangle Gallery along with “Printed Landscapes” by Kathy McGhee in the Works on Paper Gallery. Through the collaborative lens of “Marks & Stitches” Struble and Quay delve into the connections found in nature and the human body. Their collaboration is an exploration of the invisible ties that bind humanity together and highlight the beauty of interconnectedness. Struble’s graphite drawings of the landscape investigate the way visual artifacts, such as images, are a tangible yet fragile representation of one’s memories, while Quay explores the tension and stagnation that is generated through managing emotional balance through fiber art and experimental sculpture. McGhee’s “Printed Landscapes” utilizes a variety of printmaking techniques to capture intimate moments of beauty in the landscape and explore the relationships between plants and the places they exist. She is inspired not only by the experience of being in nature but also by the visual patterns created through line, texture, and color as organisms naturally coexist. There will be a virtual artist talk via Zoom on Friday, July 10, 2026, at 12pm. Visit www.sinclair.edu/artgalleries for details. The exhibitions will be on display from July 6–August 14, 2026. Galleries are located on the fourth floor of building 13 (located at West Fifth and South 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.

Camp DNA – The Human Race Theatre Company
2026-07-06 08:30 - 16:00 (America/New_York) | The Human Race Theatre Company, 126 N. Main St., Dayton, OH, 45402
We are proud to introduce Camp DNA (Developing New Artists) — a three-week, full-day summer theatre experience where high school students don’t just learn theatre, they live it. Offered by The Human Race Theatre Company, Camp DNA will run: July 6–24, 2026 Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM–4:00 PM open to rising 9th–12th grade scholars Participants will train alongside professional resident artists and theatre staff, and choose a specialty in one of the following: Acting Playwrighting & Directing Stage Management & Producing Tech Theatre (lighting, sound, backstage basics) Camp DNA is hands-on, immersive, and collaborative. From movement and voice work to story development, and production fundamentals, scholars build real skills and real confidence. The experience culminates in a student-led showcase of a play, bringing ideas from concept to curtain call. Total Cost: $525 (only $175 per week!) Location: The Human Race Theatre Company. Scholarships, sibling discounts, and payment plans are available. Two paid internships are available for college aged students. For more info, contact: Tiffany Countryman, Engagement & Learning Coordinator tiffany@humanracetheatre.org 937-461-3823 x3114

Artist in Training (AIT) Program
2026-07-06 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.

Community Fitness: BootyMix
2026-07-06 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 Gardening at Cooper Park
2026-07-06 18:00 - 19:00 (America/New_York) | Cooper Park
Hang with your neighbors at the Cooper Park Community Garden (behind the downtown library) as we weed, admire the native flowers, pick vegetables, water, and do other gardening tasks as needed throughout the season. All skill and ability levels are welcome! Contribute what you can and take what you need.

Community Fitness: Bootcamp
2026-07-06 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
2026-07-06 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.
