Downtown Dayton Partnership

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 | 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 | 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.

Community Fitness: SWERK
2026-05-06 18:00 - 19:00 | RiverScape MetroPark, 237 E Monument Ave, Dayton, OH, 45402, United States
SWERK combines current hip hop style dance moves with lower body toning and cardiovascular exercises to bring you one Booty-licious bod. A true “lift your booty, love your body” experience, this dance cardio format will push you to “Sweat, Work, Twerk” your way to your favorite version of you. No previous dance experience necessary, just come MOVE and have FUN. We can’t wait to SWERK with you!

Music Bingo
2026-05-07 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.

An Evening with Henhouse Prowlers
2026-05-07 19:30 - 21:30 | The Brightside, 905 E. Third St., Dayton, OH, 45402
Henhouse Prowlers at The Brightside Wednesday, May 7, 2026 | Doors 7PM / Show 7:30PM All Ages | $20 General Admission | Reserved Tables Available Chicago’s Henhouse Prowlers have spent 20 years crisscrossing the globe, including 34 countries on 5 continents, and every mile of it shows up in their music. Rooted in bluegrass and classic country but impossible to pin down, Ben Wright (banjo), Chris Dollar (guitar), Jon Goldfine (bass), and Jake Howard (mandolin) bring a four-part harmony and a world-worn perspective to everything they play. Their latest record, Unravel, produced by Stephen Mougin (Sam Bush Band), is their most expansive yet — road-worn storytelling, flashes of modern Americana, and picking as ferocious as ever. But the real magic happens live, where their extensive songbook gets woven together with tales from the road, and bluegrassy takes on international tunes that might just be in a language you’ve never heard before. As founding members of Bluegrass Ambassadors and partners of the U.S. State Department, the Prowlers are more than a band — they’re proof that music builds the bridges words can’t. Come hear what 20 years of chasing something beautiful sounds like. HOW TO GO? Thursday, May 7th / Doors 7PM / Show 7:30PM The Brightside — 905 E. 3rd St., Dayton, OH $20 General Admission (advance) | $25 Day of Show All Ages | Reserved Tables Available
https://eventvesta.com/events/142226/t/tickets

The Future of Female
2026-05-08 | Dayton Society of Artists, 48 High Street, Dayton, OH, 45402, United States
The Dayton Society of Artists (DSA) is proud to present The Future of Female, a juried exhibition highlighting the perspectives, experiences, and voices of women-identifying artists. This exhibition brings together a diverse range of work across mediums, styles, and approaches—offering a thoughtful exploration of identity, presence, and creative expression in contemporary practice.

Montgomery County Law Enforcement Memorial
2026-05-08 10:45 - 12:45 | RiverScape MetroPark, 237 E Monument Ave, Dayton, OH, 45402, United States
Montgomery County Law Enforcement Memorial
10:45am – 12:45pm
AGE: All ages | FREE
The Montgomery County Law Enforcement Memorial is an annual event to honor officers who were tragically killed or seriously injured in the line of duty, and provide support for their family and coworkers. The event starts with a procession which features a combined agency Motorcycle Unit, a combined agency Color Guard, Honor Guards, a massed Pipe & Drum Corps, uniformed and retired Officers, and the family and coworker survivors. Once it reaches the pavilion, the memorial continues with many observances of sacred military and law enforcement traditions, guest speakers, and more. The public is welcome to attend as we honor the fallen and injured officers of our community. The procession is weather dependent. Weather Dependent.

Downtown Dayton Historic Walking Tours
2026-05-08 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

An Evening of Shoegaze & Dreampop with DJ Eric Heilman
2026-05-08 19:00 | The Barrel House, 417 E. Third St., Dayton, OH, 45402, United States
DJ Eric Heilman is back to serve up a heady set of shoegaze and dreampop dripping in guitars and reverb.
Dayton Street Snacks are here 11am – 11pm, and our never-not-awesome taplist will be in full force.
No cover. Just vibes.

DLCA Performance: Olympus – The Greek Rock Musical
2026-05-08 19:00 | PNC Arts Annex, 46 N. Ludlow St., Dayton, OH, 45402
DLCA PERFORMANCE: OLYMPUS – THE GREEK ROCK MUSICAL is a laugh-out-loud rock musical where ancient myths meet modern mischief! The Greek gods, tired of their immortal routines, spark a competition to meddle with mortals and prove who’s the greatest Greek god of all time. When a group of modern-day cousins set off on a hike to “Olympus Overlook,” they have no idea they’re about to be tested by ancient deities. With catchy songs, heartfelt moments, and plenty of laughs, OLYMPUS is a mythic adventure about family, connection, and discovering that the real view from the top is the one you share together.
There are three performances for this show: Friday evening, Saturday matinee, and Saturday evening.

First Bloom Community Cleanup
2026-05-09 08:00 - 12:00 | Downtown Dayton
The Downtown Dayton Partnership is excited to host the second annual First Bloom: a neighborhood clean-up and beautification event.
On Saturday, May 9, 2026, we’ll come together as a community for a day of spring cleaning – litter pick-up, mulching, window washing, etc. – to help make our city look its best.
Please fill out and submit the registration form at https://downtowndayton.org/cleanup/ to RSVP!

Civic Saturday
2026-05-09 10:00 - 12:00 | Dayton Metro Library – Main Library, 215 E. Third Street, Dayton, OH, 45402
Dayton Metro Library’s Civic Saturday series continues on Saturday, May 9, from 10 am-12 pm, in the Main Library’s Eichelberger Forum, with guest speaker Dr. Nicolyn Woodcock, associate director of the Asian and Native American Center at Wright State University. Dr. Woodcock is co-leader of the Dayton caucus of OPAWL – Building AAPI Feminist Leadership, serves on the Minority Health Advisory Council for Public Health Dayton and Montgomery County, and was awarded Empowered Ally of the Year by REACH Indigenous Advocacy in 2025. Civic Saturday is rooted in ritual and seeks to foster civic pride and a commitment to strengthening communities. The goals of the series are to celebrate community, build civic power, practice rituals of civic belonging, and create joyful neighborhood gatherings. Civic Saturday is sponsored by DML’s The Center for Community Impact & Innovation, the League of Women Voters Greater Dayton Area, and Dayton United for Human Rights for Civic Saturdays. This series is also part of DML’s America 250 programming and is intended for adults. For more information, visit DaytonMetroLibrary.org or call the Library’s Ask Me Line at 937.463.2665.

Living Wall Art Workshop
2026-05-09 12:00 - 13:00 | Now and Zen DIY Studio, 121 E. Third St., Dayton, OH, 45402
Unleash Your Creativity with Living Wall Art! Discover the magic of designing your very own living masterpiece in our most popular workshop at Now and Zen DIY Studio! In this signature class, you’ll craft stunning wall art using live air plants, vibrant preserved moss, and a variety of unique embellishments. The result? A one-of-a-kind creation, designed by you, that will captivate and transform any space into a conversation-worthy showcase. Join Us for a Relaxing and Creative Experience! Here’s what’s included: Hands-On Fun, step-by-step guidance Learn & Care: Gain knowledge on how to care for your living art All-Inclusive: Supplies, plants, moss, stones, and embellishments provided Your Creation: Leave with a completed 8” x 10” living wall art piece ‘SIP & CREATE’ We’ve partnered with our business neighbor, Joui Wine and you can now purchase a glass of wine (at a $1.00 discount) to enjoy while you are creating your terrarium. https://www.shopnowandzen.com/open-workshop

YMCA Healthy Kids Day
2026-05-09 12:00 - 16:00 | RiverScape MetroPark, 237 E Monument Ave, Dayton, OH, 45402, United States
YMCA Healthy Kids Day
12:00pm – 4:00pm
AGE: All ages | FREE
Come celebrate YMCA Healthy Kids Day at RiverScape, part of the nationwide initiative aiming to enhance the health and wellness of children. The Y will be hosting kidsâ fitness classes, sport skills clinics, interactive games, arts and crafts, YMCA Camp Kern activities and more. The event is free and open to everyone, providing an excellent opportunity for children to engage in outdoor play. Weather Dependent.

Meet the Artist: Elisha Frontz
2026-05-09 12:00 - 16:00 | Dayton Society of Artists, 48 High Street, Dayton, OH, 45402, United States
The Dayton Society of Artists invites you to spend time with Elisha Frontz during a series of open studio-style sessions held in conjunction with her solo exhibition in the Project Space (for Members), on view alongside Future of Female. Visitors are encouraged to engage with the artist, ask questions, and observe her process as she works. These informal sessions offer a unique opportunity to gain insight into Frontz’s material approach and conceptual framework, including her transformation of everyday materials into intricate, quilt-like works that reflect on memory, loss, and generational legacy.

A Conversation with Mike Giant & Jason REVOK
2026-05-09 14:00 - 15:00 | The Contemporary Dayton, 25 W. Fourth St., Dayton, OH, 45402, United States
An artist talk with artist Jason REVOK led by Dayton-based artist Mike Giant. FREE and open to all.

Rock Night with George Balog 3 Year Anniversary
2026-05-09 19:00 - 23:00 | The Barrel House, 417 E. Third St., Dayton, OH, 45402, United States
George is back behind the decks spinning four hours of rock vinyl to celebrate THREE YEARS of Rock Night! As always, each pint purchased comes with a free air guitar.
Dayton Street Snacks will on-site celebrating their One Year Anniversary in the back DORA lot!
No cover. Just rock.

Mother’s Day Brunch
2026-05-10 | Bistecca, 137 N. Main St., Dayton, OH, 45402
Treat the mother figure in your life to a celebration as unforgettable as she is this Mother’s Day with a carefully curated Mother’s Day Brunch experience at award-winning fine dining eatery Bistecca. The Downtown Dayton staple is excited to offer an Italian-inspired brunch blending warm hospitality, indulgent flavors, and thoughtful perfect touches to celebrate the maternal influences we know and love who move mountains day in and day out.
Entrées

Caprese Eggs Benedict featuring an English muffin, heirloom tomato, mozzarella, pesto hollandaise and basil
Eggs in Purgatory featuring farm-fresh eggs, spicy pomodoro, white wine, Spanish onion, pesto Genovese, pecorino and grilled table bread
Breakfast Sammy featuring a butter croissant, farm-fresh eggs, arugula, your choice of bacon or ham, pesto rosa and roasted fingerling hash
Bistecca Breakfast featuring farm-fresh eggs, roasted fingerling hash, pecan bacon or local sausage and your choice of toast
Italian Omelet featuring Italian sausage, kale, provolone, pecorino, chives and roasted fingerling hash

Sweet & Brunch Classics

Dutch Baby Pancake with raspberries, sweet cream and Nutella drizzle
Warm Peach & Amaretto Oatmeal featuring peach, cream, honey, butter, amaretto and cardamom
Seasonal Fruit Skewers featuring kiwi, grape, strawberry, pineapple, watermelon and mascarpone honey dip
Crustless Quiche featuring grilled asparagus, leek, sundried tomato, provolone and pecorino

Savory Plates & Salads

Grilled Melon & Prosciutto featuring cantaloupe, honeydew, whipped lemon ricotta, basil white balsamic glaze and candied walnuts
Strawberry & Baby Spinach featuring baby spinach, gorgonzola, strawberry, orange supreme, walnuts and apple cider-poppy seed dressing
Salmon Croquette featuring baked salmon, whole grain Dijon, herbs, Tuscan spice, cucumber slaw and dill cream sauce
Italian Breaded Chicken featuring chicken cutlet, provolone, pecorino, arugula, pesto and roasted red pepper aioli

A variety of à la carte and beverages will also be offered. To book a reservation, visit Open Table or call (937) 637-0465.

Mother’s Day DIY at the Market
2026-05-10 11:00 - 15:00 | 2nd Street Market, 600 E. Second St., Dayton, OH, 45402, USA
Celebrate Mom with creativity at our DIY Mother’s Day event. Enjoy a hand on experience creating a personalized gift for Mom. Several Market vendors will be able to help you create a gift for Mom; cost will range from $5 to $10.

Mother’s Day Terrarium Event
2026-05-10 12:00 - 14:00 | Now and Zen DIY Studio, 121 E. Third St., Dayton, OH, 45402
Mother’s Day: Sip, Create & Celebrate Celebrate Mom with a relaxed, creative experience she’ll truly enjoy Join us for a special open create where you can design whatever speaks to you with glass terrarium vessels, plants, and beautiful natural elements—all while spending meaningful time together. It’s the perfect way to slow down, connect, and make lasting memories. Enjoy complimentary light refreshments and a special gift for Mom (one per party) as our way of celebrating her ‘SIP & CREATE’ We’ve partnered with our business neighbor “Joui Wine” to offer a pre-paid glass(s) of wine for a $1.00 discount. Select A $20 deposit per party is required to reserve your spot (Deposits are credited toward your purchase that day. Your deposit is forfeited for no-shows or cancellation. https://www.shopnowandzen.com/open-workshop

Community Gardening at Cooper Park
2026-05-11 18:00 - 19:00 | 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.

Nurses Making History – Greater Dayton Edititon
2026-05-11 18:00 - 20:00 | The Dayton Woman’s Club, 225 N Ludlow St, Dayton, OH, 45402, United States
As part of National Nurses Week and the America 250 commemoration, Nurses Making History: Greater Dayton Edition invites the community to recognize the people who care for us in our most vulnerable moments—and to reflect on the long history of caregiving in our region. This two-hour evening gathering brings together nurses, community members, and local partners in a historic setting to celebrate the evolution of nursing from early frontier caregiving to today’s highly skilled, technology-driven practice. The evening will include food, drinks, music, recognition of local nurses nominated by their peers and families, and a storytelling panel. The event is designed first and foremost as a welcoming space for nurses—especially those currently working in hospitals and community settings—to connect, reflect, and be recognized. At the same time, it is open to anyone who wants to celebrate nurses: family members, colleagues, patients, and community supporters. Tickets are $10 and include food and drinks. Space is limited.

Sunset Sessions with Edde Osborne
2026-05-12 19:00 - 21:00 | RiverScape MetroPark, 237 E Monument Ave, Dayton, OH, 45402, United States
Part of RiverScape Sunset Sessions series
Sunset Sessions with Edde Osborne
7:00pm – 9:00pm
AGE: All ages | FREE

Join us as we welcome Edde Osborne back to RiverScape MetroPark! This local favorite will get you dancing with his jazzy saxophone as he covers a wide variety of R&B classics and even modern hits like Step in the Name of Love and Wobble. Weather Dependent.
Settle in by the RiverScape Cafe with some food and drinks, while listening to the sounds of some of the best local musicians that Dayton has to offer. Watch the sun go down over the river and challenge your friends to oversized lawn games. The RiverScape Cafe 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.

Culture Kitchen: France
2026-05-14 17:00 - 20:00 | 2nd Street Market, 600 E. Second St., Dayton, OH, 45402, USA
Join Sabine Grande, owner of Crepe Boheme, as she teaches you how to make your own savory and sweet crepe for dinner this evening. Sabine was born outside of Lyons France, and travels back several times a year. She will share with you many stories about growing up in France, how she ended up in Dayton, Oh and talk about how she started out making crepes.

Collage Night
2026-05-14 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. Free .

Teen Comic Book Club
2026-05-14 18:00 - 19:00 | Dayton Metro Library – Main Library, 215 E. Third Street, Dayton, OH, 45402
Teen Comic Book Club, Thursday, May 14, 6-7 pm, Main Library, TeenEdge: Discuss comics, manga, and graphic novels, and get recommendations from other teen readers.

2026 LGBTQIA+ Elders’ Awards
2026-05-14 18:00 - 19:30 | Dayton Metro Library – Main Library, 215 E. Third Street, Dayton, OH, 45402
Dayton Metro Library will host the 2026 LGBTQIA+ Elders’ Awards on Thursday, May 14, 6-7:30 pm, in the Main Library’s Eichelberger Forum. Community members are invited to celebrate LGBTQIA+ Elders’ Day with awards that are presented to elders from the Dayton area. Hors d’oeuvres and nonalcoholic beverages will be provided. This year’s DML honorees are Richelle Frabotta, the LGBTQ+ Health Initiatives Project Manager with Public Health – Dayton & Montgomery County, and Kara Brown, a faculty member and coordinator of the Secure Systems program in the CIT Department at Sinclair Community College. This event is presented in partnership with DML’s The Center for Community Impact & Innovation and PFLAG Dayton and honors the sesquicentennial of Natalie Clifford Barney. For more information, visit DaytonMetroLibrary.org or call the Library’s Ask Me Line at 937.463.2665.

Mix and Mingle at The Foundry
2026-05-14 18:00 - 21:00 | The Foundry, 124 Madison St., Dayton, OH, 45402, United States
Join us on the rooftop for an exclusive Mix & Mingle May 14 from 6-9 pm, featuring premium scotch from Glenfiddich and Balvenie. Guests can opt for General Admission at $40, which includes a welcome drink and an expert-led tasting session. For a more elevated experience, the $75 General Reserve Admission adds access to a full food buffet featuring Foundry shareables and artisanal pizzas. Whether you are a scotch aficionado or just looking for a vibrant night out, this event offers the perfect blend of fine spirits and great company.
