Downtown Dayton Partnership

Dayton Dragons vs. Quad Cities River Bandits
2026-08-23 13:05, 2026-08-22 19:05, 2026-08-21 19:05, 2026-08-20 19:05 (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.

Exploring Feminism
2026-08-23, 2026-08-22, 2026-08-21 | The Dayton Art Institute, 456 Belmonte Park N, Dayton, OH, 45405, United States
February 7, 2026–January 31, 2027, Gallery 118
Feminism feels like a loaded term that, when presented to people, often triggers a gut reaction that it is positive or negative. But what actually is feminism? Presenting feminist artwork from the newly acquired Sara M. and Michelle Vance Waddell Collection, this three-part, rotating exhibition will demystify the origins, history and commitments of the feminist movement.
Often discussed in terms of waves, feminism has signified struggles for a range of causes at varying moments in time. Through Exploring Feminism, guests may become better acquainted with cycles of protest, self-expression and community-building for a movement that has continued to change and adapt to include more and different constituents within its umbrella of “feminists.”
No bras will be burned (and, in fact, never were) for this new exhibition featuring regional, national and international artists working in all manner of media.

Captivating Clay: Contemporary Japanese Ceramics from the Horvitz Collection
2026-08-23, 2026-08-22, 2026-08-21 | The Dayton Art Institute, 456 Belmonte Park N, Dayton, OH, 45405, United States
April 13, 2024–January 3, 2027, Gallery 106
Today, Japanese ceramic artists are building on centuries of tradition and taking the art in dynamic and new directions. They are exploring the potential of clay to create both functional and abstract sculptural forms with an incredible range of surface textures and decoration. The aesthetic sensibilities are varied, from rough and imperfect to detailed and refined, but all show a mastery of the craft.
Drawn from the renowned collection of Carol and Jeffrey Horvitz—including recent gifts from them to the museum—this exhibition presents more than thirty artworks spanning eight decades. Traditionally a craft restricted to men, in recent years women have become some of the leading voices in the field and several examples are included.
Artists range from innovative pioneers in the twentieth century, several designated as Living National Treasures in Japan, to emerging, younger artists. Interspersed are examples from the DAI’s collection of historic Japanese ceramics. Across 2,000 years, these speak to the long history of the art in the island nation and their continued inspiration for artists today.

Fighters for Freedom: William H. Johnson Picturing Justice
2026-08-23, 2026-08-22, 2026-08-21 | 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.”

Vinyl Vinyl Sundays
2026-08-23 | The Barrel House, 417 E. Third St., Dayton, OH, 45402, United States
Sunday – Vinyl Vinyl Sunday – bring your records, we’ll play ’em

Birthday Candles
2026-08-22 20:00, 2026-08-21 20:00 | Dayton Theatre Guild, 430 Wayne Avenue, Dayton, OH, 45410, USA
Birthday Candles

by Noah Haidle
Ernestine Ashworth spends her 17th birthday agonizing over her insignificance in the universe. Soon enough, it’s her 18th birthday. Even sooner, her 41st. Her 70th. Her 101st. Five generations, an infinity of dreams, and one cake baked over a century. This sweet, poignant, and funny play takes you through the extraordinary moments that make up one woman’s ordinary life.
Birthday Candles is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals on behalf of Samuel French, Inc. www.concordtheatricals.com

The Original Slave Ft. Thomas Lockett and Floyd Miller
2026-08-22 19:00 | Levitt Pavilion Dayton, 134 S. Main St., Dayton, OH, 45402
August 22 @ 7:00 PM

Free Admission

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Series:

Montgomery County Funk/R&B Series

Genre:

Funk

Second-generation Dayton funk stars The Original Slave formed in Ohio in 1976 around a nucleus of guitarist Mark Hicks, singer and brass man Floyd Miller, bassist Mark Adams, guitarist and singer Danny Webster, and trumpeter Steve Washington, the nephew of pioneering Ohio Players trumpeter Ralph “Pee Wee” Middlebrooks.
Early on, Floyd came to a band meeting wearing a t-shirt with the word “Slave” on one side and “Master” on the other. Washington, whose family had direct ties to Frederick Douglass and the abolitionist movement, embraced a concept that transformed the term into a message of responsibility and purpose: that everyone carries a responsibility to help make the world a better place. The band’s contribution would be to uplift people through music with healing, meaning, and connection. They called their higher-plane sound not simply funk, but “Fungk” with a “g,” alluding to a spiritual, God-inspired element.
The Original Slave exploded onto the scene with its 1977 debut single, “Slide,” making overnight sensations of guitarist Mark “Drac” Hicks, who earned his nickname through vocal improvisations on the track, and bassist “Mr. Mark” Adams. Both were still teenagers, yet already demonstrating extraordinary musical talent.
By the group’s third album, the ever-evolving collective had added two powerful new voices: vocalist Starleana Young, just 16 years old at the time, and Steve Arrington. Arrington began as a percussionist but quickly emerged as one of the defining voices of Slave, bringing an organic vocal style influenced as much by jazz saxophonist John Coltrane and blues-rock guitarist Jimi Hendrix as by traditional singers.
Today, The Original Slave Ft. Thomas Lockett and Floyd Miller continues to celebrate and perform the timeless music that made Slave one of the most influential funk bands to emerge from Dayton’s rich musical legacy. Audiences can expect the classic grooves, infectious energy, and enduring hits that helped define an era of funk music while honoring the band’s lasting impact on generations of fans.

Fitness in the Park: Yoga with Speakeasy
2026-08-22 10:00 - 11:00 | RiverScape MetroPark, 237 E Monument Ave, Dayton, OH, 45402, United States
Harness your strength, enhance your mobility, and create a deeper connection with yourself. Join Tori for a dynamic physical yoga practice that will guide you through a breath focused flow that is both empowering and meditative. New to yoga? Not to worry. This class has something for all levels, and a variety of variations are offered throughout so you can find the most benefit for your time on the mat, and in turn feel your best off of it, too! Remember to bring your own mat, water bottle, and towels. Weather Dependent. All ages. Free.

Summer Band Series
2026-08-22 08:00 - 17:00 | The Dayton Beer Company, 41 Madison St., Dayton, OH, 45402
Join us for some summer fun with bands in the Biergarten every other Saturday all summer long!
Bi Weekly Saturdays from May – September 7-10pm
5/16: Different and the Same
6/13: The Wayward J
6/27: Ethan Timm
7/11: The Bowl Cuts
7/25: Ollie’s Acoustic Jam
8/8: Different and the Same
8/22: Ben & Pete
9/12: The Bowl Cuts
9/19: No Refunds
9/26: Chris Yakopcic

Exhibit: Our Fire Is Stronger Than Your Bombs
2026-08-22 | 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.

Threads of History: Quilts by Carolyn Mazloomi
2026-08-22 | 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.

Friday Night Karaoke at Two Social
2026-08-21 22:00 | 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

Summer Music Series: Kenny Chesney Tribute with The Poets & Pirates
2026-08-21 19:00 - 21:00 | RiverScape MetroPark, 237 E Monument Ave, Dayton, OH, 45402, United States
Join us under the pavilion as the RiverScape Summer Music Series features a Kenny Chesney Tribute with The Poets & Pirates! It’s time to grab your flip-flops, because we’re welcoming the “No Shoes Nation” to RiverScape MetroPark. From the heart-pounding energy of a sold-out stadium to the laid-back storytelling of the Pirate-Poet himself, this band delivers the authentic Kenny Chesney experience with hit after hit of incredible music that keeps the party going all night long.
Bring your lawn chairs and enjoy this FREE live concert, while taking in a spectacular sunset over the Great Miami River. The RiverScape Café will be open selling food and drinks along with alcoholic beverages, including beer, wine, and cocktails, for those 21 and over. The Summer Music Series is presented by AES Ohio, and supported by Jack W. & Sally D. Eichelberger Foundation and Enterprise Roofing.

Bywater Call
2026-08-21 19:00 | Levitt Pavilion Dayton, 134 S. Main St., Dayton, OH, 45402
August 21 @ 7:00 PM

Free Admission

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Series:

AES Rock/Pop Series

Genre:

Rock/Roots/Southern Soul

Often transcending genres, Bywater Call is known for their dynamic, emotional live shows, featuring powerful vocals and exciting interplay between all band members. A powerhouse seven-piece Southern soul, roots rock outfit from Toronto, Canada; the band is comprised of Meghan Parnell (vocals), Dave Barnes (guitar), Bruce McCarthy (drums), Mike Meusel (bass), newest member, Andrew Moljgun (keys), Stephen Dyte (trumpet) and Julian Nalli (tenor sax).
Bywater Call is steadily building a reputation as one of best up-and-coming bands in the market today. Their live performances paired with an ever-growing catalog of recorded music, is establishing their fanbase globally. With praises from other artists, media, and music fans alike, Bywater Call is quickly becoming a fan favorite.
Recently, Bywater Call played their second Joe Bonamassa “Keeping the Blues Alive” (KTBA) cruise, featuring headliners Big Head Todd and the Monsters and Larkin Poe. In 2025, they played the Netherland’s BOSPOP festival alongside the likes of the Black Keys, Warren Haynes Band, Marcus King and Blackberry Smoke, and others.
Bywater Call’s music is an exploration of life’s highs and lows. From intimate ballads that lay bare the complexities of human emotion to electrifying anthems that demand to be played at full volume, their catalogue is a journey through human experience, featuring influences from the likes of The Band, The Wood Brothers, Tedeschi Trucks Band, Otis Redding, Little Feat, Sly and the Family Stone, and many more.

Downtown Dayton Historic Walking Tours
2026-08-21 17:30 | 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

Kayak Rentals with Taiters Kayak
2026-08-21 16:00 - 20:00 | RiverScape MetroPark, 237 E Monument Ave, Dayton, OH, 45402, United States
Part of RiverScape Kayak Rentals series
Kayak Rentals with Taiters Kayak
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!

Music Bingo Thursdays
2026-08-20 20:00 | 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
2026-08-20 19:30 - 22:30 | 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
2026-08-20 19:00 - 21:00 | 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.

The Levert Experience
2026-08-20 19:00 | Levitt Pavilion Dayton, 134 S. Main St., Dayton, OH, 45402
August 20 @ 7:00 PM

Free Admission

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Series:

Montgomery County Funk/R&B Series

Genre:

R&B

We are thrilled to present Levert Experience, an electrifying R&B ensemble ready to dazzle audiences with their soulful performances and undeniable talent. Comprising Marc Gordon, the original founding member of Levert, along with Joe Little, lead singer of The Rude Boys, and Dave Tolliver from the R&B duo Men At Large, this group brings a wealth of experience and passion to every stage they grace.
Levert Experience promises an unforgettable musical journey through the timeless hits of Levert, delivering dynamic and engaging performances each time they step into the spotlight. With each member infusing their own unique flair and energy into every performance, audiences are guaranteed an evening filled with excitement and nostalgia.
Each member brings excitement to the stage as they take you through a journey musical journey of the song book of the classic Levert hits such as “Baby I’m Ready “ which reach number 1# on the R&B charts in 1991. Who could forget the number one hit ABC-123
Levert had hits songs throughout the late 80’s and early 90’s. You can’t forget the top five Billboard pop smash “ Casanova . Not only will they will be performing hits from Levert, but also hit songs that came out of Trevel Productions from the group the Rude Boys such as “Written All Over Your Face” Which became 1990 Billboard song of the year. Also from the 1# song from “Men At Large catalogue “So Alone”
They will be performing some of most popular songs by Levert including their first number one Pop Pop Goes My Mind We are confident that Levert Experience is the perfect addition to your lineup, offering a fresh take on classic R&B hits that will leave audiences craving more.
