Downtown Dayton Partnership

Teens (Learn to) Chill Out!
2026-02-17 16:00 - 17:00 (America/New_York) | Dayton Metro Library – Main Library, 215 E. Third Street, Dayton, OH, 45402
Teens (Learn to) Chill Out!, Tuesday, February 17, 4-5 pm, Main Library, Conference Room 1B: Learn how to handle stress and anxiety, manage time, practice self-care, and boost self-esteem using resources provided by the Teen Librarian. The session will begin with a journaling prompt: “What does self-care really look like?” Registration required.

Ash Wednesday Taizé Service of Prayer and Meditation
2026-02-18 18:00 - 18:40 | Westminster Presbyterian Church, 125 N. Wilkinson St., Dayton, OH, 45402
February 18 – 6:00-6:40 p.m. Ash Wednesday Taizé Service of Prayer and Meditation – Westminster Presbyterian Church, 125 N. Wilkinson St., Downtown Dayton – a light supper follows the service.

Discovery: How To Survive Middle School
2026-02-19 09:30 | Victoria Theatre, 138 N. Main St., Dayton, OH, 45402, United States
This show is part of our Discovery Series, which presents weekday field trips for area schools to experience carefully selected shows designed to enhance curriculum connections throughout various subject areas. If you are not purchasing tickets for a school or homeschool, please click here to explore our Children’s Theatre programming.
Comedian Robert Post barely survived middle school. Struggling because of various learning disabilities, he found that making people laugh saved him. In this brand-new multimedia performance, kids talk to kids in a compelling, funny, and educational show. Dealing with real issues affecting students today including social media, testing, bullying, and peer pressure, these video testimonials by kids and their advocates, (along with a generous dose of Post’s signature humor), is sure to resonate with all students.

Open Studio Session
2026-02-19 17:00 - 20:00 | The Contemporary Dayton, 25 W. Fourth St., Dayton, OH, 45402, United States
Come get creative in a relaxed, welcome space–no experience necessary! We’ll provide materials, or feel free to bring your own. Whether you’re an experienced artist or just looking to unwind and try something new, this night is all about making, experimenting, and connecting with others through art. Admission: $10 at the door / FREE for Co Members

Cult Movie Night – Bride of Chucky
2026-02-19 19:30 | THE NEON, United States
Overview
“Cult Movie Night returns in 2026 with an Anti-Valentines Day edition with a screening of the classic romance BRIDE OF CHUCKY. Jennifer Tilly steals the show as the equally insane wife of Chucky who then gets reincarnated as a doll herself, creating the iconic & beloved Tiffany Valentine character. A late 90’s metal soundtrack, inventive kills, tons of great one liners, and an outlaw love story with even a little doll nudity makes this movie a 90’s time-capsule and very fun on the big screen.
Also having its world premiere will be the short film LOVE, MIKE from Dayton filmmaker Issac Ingle. A night of Chuckies, Tiffanies, & retro trailers for the hater in you this holiday season. Plus a sneak peak at our next Cult Movie Night.
Rated R. Thursday, February 19th at 7:30 PM – Tickets are $13

Community Wellness with the Rehabilitation Institute of Ohio (RIO)
2026-02-20 11:00 - 12:00 | 2nd Street Market, 600 E. Second St., Dayton, OH, 45402, USA
Join Jerry Shields from RIO, an Occupational Therapist Assistant as he chats and talks about spinal cord injuries, back exercises and preventing injuries.

Passadhi Yoga
2026-02-20 12:00 - 13:00 | 2nd Street Market, 600 E. Second St., Dayton, OH, 45402, USA
Yoga with Aleasha will lead you in an all-levels yoga flow. If you’re a beginner, she will guide you through modifications to ensure you are comfortable to help you to become more familiar with poses. If you’re experienced, she will help grow your current practice. This class is truly for everyone!

Oscar Shorts 2026 Animation
2026-02-20 12:50 | THE NEON, United States
We’re delighted to once again bring all the Oscar nominees for “Best Animated Short Film” (plus one additional film that was shortlisted) starting Feb. 20.
Here are this year’s films:
THE THREE SISTERS – Dir. Konstantin Bronzit | Israel, Cyprus | 14min
FOREVERGREEN – Dir. Nathan Engelhardt and Jeremy Spears | United States | 13min
THE GIRL WHO CRIED PEARLS – Dir. Chris Lavis and Maciek Szczerbowski | Canada | 17min
BUTTERFLY – Dir. Florence Miailhe | France | 15min
RETIREMENT PLAN – Dir. John Kelly | Ireland | 7min
ÉIRU **Shortlisted- Dir. Giovanna Ferrari | Ireland | 13min
Some films in this program include some disturbing and mature content and may not be suitable for young children.

Midwinter Break
2026-02-20 13:00 | THE NEON, United States
Longtime retired couple Stella and Gerry realize that their relationship has reached a crossroads while on holiday in Amsterdam. After so much time and so many memories, long-held promises and deeply concealed wounds threaten to come to light and force them to confront their future.
A stirring meditation on faith, commitment, and the enduring power of love.
Director
Polly Findlay
Producer
Guy Heeley, Floor Onrust
Cast
Lesley Manville, Julie Lamberton, Ciarán Hinds

Oscar Shorts 2026 Live Action
2026-02-20 14:50 | THE NEON, United States
Overview
All five Oscar nominees for “Best Live Action Short Film” will head to THE NEON starting Feb. 20.
Here are this year’s contenders:
THE SINGERS – Dir. Sam A. Davis | United States | 18min
BUTCHER’S STAIN – Dir. Meyer Levinson-Blount | Israel | 26min
A FRIEND OF DOROTHY – Dir. Lee Knight | United Kingdom | 21min
TWO PEOPLE EXCHANGING SALIVA – Dir. Alexandre Singh and Natalie Musteata | France, United States | 36min
JANE AUSTEN’S PERIOD DRAMA – Dir. Julia Aks and Steve Pinder | United States | 12min
Some films in this program contain adult language, adult themes, and sensual images. Recommended for persons 17 and up.

Swiftie Skate
2026-02-20 18:00 - 22:00 | RiverScape MetroPark, 237 E Monument Ave, Dayton, OH, 45402, United States
Part of MetroParks Ice Rink Theme Nights series
Swiftie Skate
6:00pm – 10:00pm
AGE: All ages | $10.00 | Financial Assistance

Swifties? We never go out of style! Grab your friends, hit the ice and sing along to all your favorite Taylor Swift songs at the MetroParks Ice Rink. Tell everyone you know, by the way, I’m going out tonight! Weather Dependent.
Skaters are welcome to relax in one of several warming areas, including a heated comfort tent containing games and seating. The RiverScape Cafe will also be open, offering a variety of food and drinks (including our delicious hot cocoa!) for purchase. For those 21 and over, a variety of alcoholic beverages will be available for purchase as part of the Downtown Dayton DORA. Admission is $7, Skate Rental is $3, and there are a limited number of skate helpers available for free. Visitors receive a 75% discount – $1.75 admission and $0.75 skate rental – on admission and skate rental by presenting either a SNAP/EBT or Access to Nature card at the Rental Office. This discount is made possible by Five Rivers MetroParks’ Access to Nature financial assistance program, supported by the Five Rivers MetroParks Foundation.

Tchaikovsky’s The Sleeping Beauty
2026-02-20 19:30 | The Benjamin & Marian Schuster Performing Arts Center, 1 West Second Street, Dayton, OH, 45402
An unforgettable experience for audiences of all ages, THE SLEEPING BEAUTY unfolds like a beautiful dream – where good triumphs over evil, love breaks a curse, and music and dancing transport you to a world of fantasy. You’ve seen the movie, but the ballet is an immersive experience for the senses boasting lush scenery, gorgeous recognizable music, and dazzling dancing.

Tony Foster, Exploring Time: A Painter’s Perspective
2026-02-21 | The Dayton Art Institute, 456 Belmonte Park N, Dayton, OH, 45405, United States
Tony Foster, Exploring Time: A Painter’s Perspective
February 21–May 17, 2026, Gallery 120
Between 2007 and 2025, Tony Foster embarked on his 19th Journey, building it around a profound and layered theme: time. Across this body of work, he investigates how time shapes the land—from the quick shifts of light and weather, to the slow rhythms of seasons, to the immense scales of biological and geological transformation. As Foster explains, his aim is “to draw attention to the unseen forces that create place.”
Exploring Time brings together a remarkable series of watercolor diaries that capture nature in motion. His paintings reveal signs of change on multiple fronts: geological upheavals, biological cycles and the marks left by human activity. With a discerning eye, Foster records not only nature’s strength and resilience but also its vulnerability, even in landscapes once dominated by industry and later reclaimed.
In a world where environmental change is often conveyed through striking images of global warming, Foster offers a different perspective, one that considers Earth’s continual evolution and the visible traces of time’s passage. Organized into four themes: geological, biological, human and the fleeting, this exhibition invites viewers to engage with time at every scale, from the span of a moment to the stretch of millennia, while reflecting on the enduring impact of human presence.

Celebrate Black History Month
2026-02-21 09:00 - 15:00 | 2nd Street Market, 600 E. Second St., Dayton, OH, 45402, USA
Celebrate Black History Month. Visit with the National Park Service (NPS) and learn about Charles Young, a Buffalo Solider who graduated from West Point in 1889. The NPS maintains the Charles Young National Museum in Wilberforce, Ohio.

Space Three Glow Up
2026-02-21 11:00 - 12:00 | Space Three, 39 S. St. Clair St., Dayton, OH, 45402
Celebrate self-love this Valentine’s season with a nourishing Self-Care & Glow experience designed to help you slow down, reconnect, and treat yourself—because you deserve it. This special event blends mindful movement with mini facials courtesy of Kate Edmondson (Tend & Flourish) to support both body and skin wellness. We’ll begin with gentle, grounding movement to release tension, improve circulation, and help you arrive fully in the moment. From there, you’ll transition into a relaxing mini facial experience using a curated facial product kit you get to use during the event. You’ll be guided step-by-step with hands-on instruction, along with expert advice and personalized recommendations for caring for your skin beyond the event. Learn simple, effective techniques, understand what your skin needs, and discover how to build a routine that supports healthy, glowing skin at home. Whether you come solo or with a friend, this Valentine’s-inspired self-care gathering is all about warmth, softness, and intentional time for yourself. Space is limited, so be sure to register in advance and give yourself (or someone you love) the gift of rest, glow, and self-appreciation. $35.00 https://momence.com/Space-Three-Dayton/Space-Three-Glow-Up-/128670634

Jellyfish Terrarium Workshop
2026-02-21 12:00 - 15:00 | Now and Zen DIY Studio, 121 E. Third St., Dayton, OH, 45402
Join us for a splash of creativity as you craft your very own whimsical floating jellyfish terrarium! Pick from a treasure trove of vessels and delightful urchin/air plant ‘jellyfish’ to make your artistic vision come alive. Let the creativity flow! https://www.shopnowandzen.com/open-workshop

Buckeye Wedding Expo
2026-02-21 13:00 - 17:00 | Dayton Arcade, 35 W. Fourth St., Dayton, OH, 45402
Engagement season is in full bloom, and the Buckeye Wedding Expo is set to fill the historic Dayton Arcade with all of the area’s best wedding vendors. On Saturday, February 21, and Sunday, February 22, 2026 from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM engaged couples and their guests are invited to experience this high-energy, interactive planning environment. Breaking away from the traditional “pipe-and-drape” trade show model, the Buckeye Wedding Expo offers an experience-driven approach. Attendees will have the opportunity to meet industry experts face to face while sampling food, drink and entertainment from talented artists Event Highlights Include: Sample Food and Drink: Sample gourmet catering, signature cocktails, and artisan cakes from Dayton’s finest culinary experts. Bridal Fashion Show: Take a seat at the main stage for a captivating display of the latest wedding fashions from one of our local boutiques, Bahar & Reza Bridal. Wedding Showcase: A visually stunning example of what a wedding reception can look like with vision and the right vendor team. Networking Opportunities: Ample time for attendees to connect with potential vendors, such as, venues, caterers, DJ’s, photographers, florist, and more. Event Décor Re-Sale: Gently used items are given another life at our re-sale area. Local couples and wedding vendors come together to offer wedding treasures from decor to accessories. “Buckeye Wedding Expo was created out of a desire to revitalize and redefine the wedding show industry.” Says Shawn Huey, Owner at Buckeye Wedding Expo and Legacy Event Group. “We offer a fresh and innovative approach that focuses on personalization, creativity, and the celebration of love all while inspiring couples to envision their perfect day in a new and meaningful way. This isn’t just about collecting business cards—it’s about seeing, tasting, and feeling your wedding vision come to life.” Tickets & Attendance Tickets are $10.00 with buy one get one free online. Children 12 and under are free. Early registration is encouraged to ensure personalized lanyards for engaged attendees, which help vendors provide tailored information based on the wedding date. For more information, to purchase tickets, or to inquire about vendor booth space, please visit www.buckeyeweddingexpo.com.

Screening of “Trail Markers”
2026-02-21 14:00 | The International Peace Museum, 10 N. Ludlow St., Dayton, OH, 45402
Join us on February 21 at 2 pm for a screening of Mona Gazala’s documentary film, “Trail Markers.” Part artist autobiography and part historical documentary, this film follows Mona’s move to rural Darke County, Ohio, and her discovery of the unlikely existence of a significant artifact related to Palestine’s history, housed in the county museum just a few miles from her new home. What is the artifact, and how did it wind up there? This film follows a winding road to the answers, and along the way, connects the dots between empire and diaspora.

Jazz and Funk Legacies in the Gem City
2026-02-21 14:30 - 16:30 | Dayton Metro Library – Main Library, 215 E. Third Street, Dayton, OH, 45402
Electric Soul: Jazz & Funk — Legacies in the Gem City Join us for an unforgettable afternoon of music, culture, and community as the Dayton Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. presents: Date: Saturday, February 21, 2026 Time: 2:30 PM – 4:30 PM Location: Dayton Metro Library – Main Branch, 215 E. Third St., Dayton, OH 45402 Admission: FREE! (Donations of non-perishable food items are welcome) Featuring performances by: The Five Elements Yvette “Diva” Williams A special tribute to Dayton’s Jazz & Funk Legends This event celebrates the rich musical heritage of the Gem City and showcases the next generation of talent. Come groove with us and honor the legacy of Dayton’s iconic sound! Register today via the QR code or email us at: daytonartsandletters@gmail.com Presented in partnership with Dayton Metro Library and supported by the Music Performance Trust Fund (MPTF).

Rock Night with George Balog
2026-02-21 19:00 - 23:00 | The Barrel House, 417 E. Third St., Dayton, OH, 45402, United States
George Balog is back with an all-vinyl set of rock jams on Saturday, February 21st! The party kicks off at 7pm. Each guest will receive a complimentary air guitar with the purchase of their first pint.
No cover, just rock.

Classic Albums Live Performs Eagles: Hotel California
2026-02-21 19:30 | Victoria Theatre, 138 N. Main St., Dayton, OH, 45402, United States
We all have our personal image of what the Hotel California looks like. We can see ourselves in the lobby and we know what the staff looks like. We feel the vibe. That’s the secret ingredient in making a classic album – being able to insert yourself into the album. Classic Albums Live invites you to immerse yourself in Eagle’s Hotel California, from the Grammy-winning “New Kid In Town,” to the deep cuts like “Wasted Time” and “Pretty Maids All In A Row.”
Note for note. Cut for cut. That’s what you’ll experience live at the Victoria Theatre with Classic Albums Live concerts. This unique series recreates classic rock albums in their entirety. Not a cover band, not an impersonation, these world-class musicians go to great lengths to faithfully create every sound on the original album in a concert setting.

Joseph And The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat
2026-02-21 20:00 | PNC Arts Annex, 46 N. Ludlow St., Dayton, OH, 45402
JOSEPH AND THE AMAZING TECHNICOLOR DREAMCOAT bursts to life with a vibrant, song-filled retelling of Joseph, his dazzling coat, and his unforgettable journey. Guided by the spirited Narrators, we follow Joseph — the favorite son — whose jealous brothers sell him into slavery. In Egypt, he rises and falls in Potiphar’s household, only to discover his incredible gift for interpreting dreams behind prison walls. His talent brings him before an Elvis-style Pharaoh, where Joseph’s brilliance saves Egypt from famine, earns him a place at Pharaoh’s side, and ultimately reunites him with his family in a joyful, triumphant finale.

EMO Night with Flicker // Fade
2026-02-21 20:00 - 23:00 | The Brightside, 905 E. Third St., Dayton, OH, 45402
Get ready to scream your favorite lyrics and relive your Warped Tour days—EMO NIGHT is coming to Dayton! Featuring a full live performance by Flicker//Fade, this high-energy night will bring you the best of Emo, Pop-Punk, and nostalgic anthems from the golden era of angst. Whether you’re a former scene kid or just discovering the genre, this is your night to sing, jump, and feel everything. Black eyeliner optional—but encouraged. EMO NIGHT ft Flicker//Fade Live Emo Band Night! The ultimate emo night is here on Saturday, February 21st Featuring a live band playing the best of Emo* Pop-Punk* Warped Tour Era Music, and more! HOW TO GO? Saturday, February 21st The Brightside, 905 E 3rd St, Dayton Doors open 7pm $15 advance tickets here: https://tickets.venuepilot.com/e/emo-nght-with-flicker-fade-2026-02-21-the-brightside-music-event-venue-dayton-c02d45 $20 at the door All ages welcome (under 18 needs supervision) There is NO re-entry, so please plan appropriately!

LUNAR – presented by KimL
2026-02-21 21:00 | The Brightside, 905 E. Third St., Dayton, OH, 45402
KimL presents LUNAR – EDM show celebrating another trip around the sun 02.21.26 | sidedoor – brightside | dyt, oh DJ RON PERRY BREAKS & BLENDS KIML B2B DAVID MICHAEL MULTI-GENRE DRAGONFLY TECH HOUSE THE LOST ORDER TRAP/DUBSTEP HOW TO GO? Saturday, February 21, 2026 SideDoor entrance (3rd St – follow signs) 21+ | 9pm thebrightsidedayton.com

Pencil and Prompts: Drawing Basics
2026-02-22 12:45 - 14:00 | Dayton Society of Artists, 48 High Street, Dayton, OH, 45402, United States
Sharpen up your sketching skills with a local artist providing you insights and inspirations into the world of drawing. Basic drawing materials provided. Guests are welcome to bring their own graphite drawing materials if desired. No drawing experience necessary. Each session provides insights on a different theme or drawing technique. Experimentation is strongly encouraged.
Cost:
Non-Members – $35
Members – $25
Pre-registration required
Location:
Dayton Society of Artists, 48 High Street, Dayton 45403
Class Prompt:
Portrait drawing
Date & Time:
Sun. February 22, 12:45 – 2 PM
About your Instructor:
Matthew Burgy is a multidisciplinary artist specializing in sculpture and painting, with years of experience organizing and leading art workshops. An active member of the local artist community, Matthew’s work explores movement, form, and expression through kinetic sculptures, jewelry, and paintings. Matthew continuously collaborates with organizations such as Culture Works to engage the community through his artistic process. He is a proud member of the Front Street artist community, where he creates, exhibits, and sells his work from his studio (#3345) on the third floor of Building 100’s BC entrance.

Penguin Palooza
2026-02-22 13:00 - 17:00 | RiverScape MetroPark, 237 E Monument Ave, Dayton, OH, 45402, United States
Part of MetroParks Ice Rink Family Skate Days series
Penguin Palooza
1:00pm – 5:00pm
AGE: All ages | $10.00 | Financial Assistance

Ready to celebrate the last family skate of the season in true penguin fashion? Waddle on over to the MetroParks Ice Rink for a day of penguin palooza! Skate to your favorite family-friendly hits, grab some hot chocolate, get creative with a FREE penguin craft, and visit with Parker the Penguin. Weather Dependent.
Guests are encouraged to participate in family activities including a featured theme table, coloring pages, scavenger hunt, and Penguin Toss. The Penguin Toss is free to all skaters and takes place at approximately 3pm. Participants will receive a penguin to toss onto the ice, and whoever lands their penguin closest to the target will receive one of three prizes.
Skaters are welcome to relax in one of several warming areas, including a heated comfort tent containing games and seating. The RiverScape Cafe will also be open, offering a variety of food and drinks (including our delicious hot cocoa!) for purchase. Admission is $7, Skate Rental is $3, and there are a limited number of skate helpers available for free. Visitors receive a 75% discount – $1.75 admission and $0.75 skate rental – on admission and skate rental by presenting either a SNAP/EBT or Access to Nature card at the Rental Office. This discount is made possible by Five Rivers MetroParks’ Access to Nature financial assistance program, supported by the Five Rivers MetroParks Foundation.

Sketcher Social Session: Advanced Drawing
2026-02-22 14:30 - 16:30 | Dayton Society of Artists, 48 High Street, Dayton, OH, 45402, United States
Join in the fun with fellow sketching enthusiasts for an in-depth experience with drawing. Each session provides basic graphite materials and bringing your own advanced dry mediums (charcoal, chalk, colored pencil, etc.) is encouraged. Each session also includes a time for friendly drawing critique and discussion moderated by a local artist of any work made during the session or of a recent drawing that you would like feedback on. Experimentation and imaginative exploration of topics discussed is strongly encouraged! Each month has a different theme and guests are encouraged to collaborate on future themes as desired.
Cost:
Non-Members – $40
Members – $30
Pre-registration Required
Location:
Dayton Society of Artists, 48 High Street, Dayton 45403
Date & Time:
Sun. February 22, 2:30 – 4:30 PM
About your Instructor:
Matthew Burgy is a multidisciplinary artist specializing in sculpture and painting, with years of experience organizing and leading art workshops. An active member of the local artist community, Matthew’s work explores movement, form, and expression through kinetic sculptures, jewelry, and paintings. Matthew continuously collaborates with organizations such as Culture Works to engage the community through his artistic process. He is a proud member of the Front Street artist community, where he creates, exhibits, and sells his work from his studio (#3345) on the third floor of Building 100’s BC entrance.

Organ Concert
2026-02-22 16:00 | First Baptist Church, 111 Monument Ave, Dayton, OH, 45402
An organ concert by Dr. Roy Belfield, Jr. is slated for Sunday, February 22, 2026 at 4 p.m at the church. Dr. Belfield holds degrees in music from Morehouse College, Florida State University, and a Doctor of Musical Arts in organ performance from the University of Missouri-Kansas City Conservatory. Currently, Dr. Belfield is the Director of Choirs and Orchestra at Goucher College in Maryland and serves as accompanist for several choirs.

Magic Carpet Concerts: Hansel & Gretel
2026-02-24 11:30 | Dayton Masonic Center, 525 W. Riverview Ave., Dayton, OH, 45405-4702, United States
Join Hansel and Gretel as they navigate a magical forest, encountering a delectable gingerbread house and triumphantly defeating a wicked witch in this engaging adaptation of the classic fairy tale. This performance, created specifically for young audiences, blends the orchestral music of the Dayton Philharmonic Orchestra and the artistry of the Dayton Opera Artists-in-Residence with narration and dialogue.

Wil Haygood – The War Within a War
2026-02-25 17:30 - 18:45 | Roger Glass Center for the Performing Arts, 29 E. Creative Way, Dayton, OH, 45469
We are happy to host a DLPP favorite — Wil Haygood, DLPP’s 2022 Ambassador Richard C. Holbrooke Lifetime Achievement Award Winner, as he discusses his new book The War Within a War: The Black Struggle in Vietnam and at Home.Moderating the evening’s discussion will be Retired USAF Lt. Gen. Richard V. Reynolds, who was the Vice Commander of Air Force Materiel Command at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio. During their talk, Wil will explore how the Vietnam War became a mirror for the struggle of Black Americans — fighting for freedom abroad while demanding equality at home — and a powerful lens through which to understand the racial and political divides that continue to shape American life. Hosted by the Dayton Literary Peace Prize Foundation in partnership with The Dayton Metro Library and The University of Dayton. Complimentary Tickets/RSVP: https://www.daytonliterarypeaceprize.org/get-involved/#events
