Downtown Dayton Partnership

Exhibits: Merry Grinchmas: Art of Dr. Seuss’ Holiday Classic & (B)ART! America’s Funniest Animated Family
2025-01-15, 2025-01-16, 2025-01-17, 2025-01-18 | The Dayton Art Institute, 456 Belmonte Park N, Dayton, OH, 45405, United States
The Dayton Art Institute (DAI) will close its 2024 Special Exhibition season with an exciting presentation of two combined traveling exhibitions, Merry Grinchmas: Art of Dr. Seuss’ Holiday Classic & (B)ART! America’s Funniest Animated Family, on view now through January 19, 2025. Just in time for the holidays, enjoy these nostalgic exhibitions highlighting two beloved classics that continue to influence the art of animation. View original drawings of Theodor Seuss Geisel (Dr. Seuss) and Chuck Jones, who brought Dr. Seuss’ beloved holiday tale to life in the 1966 animated special How the Grinch Stole Christmas!, then laugh alongside Homer, Marge, Lisa, Maggie and Bart as you experience the original handmade animation cels of the acclaimed series.

“The art displayed in our newest exhibitions explores the significant influence animation has had in pop culture and the worlds of art, entertainment and business,” said DAI Head Curator & Curatorial Affairs Director Jerry N. Smith. “Animation art is beloved worldwide, and for many of us, this medium is our introduction to art. This work showcases how in each animated classic, thousands of individual artworks come together to tell a story and create a larger singular work.”

In 1966, the animation of Chuck Jones brought to life Dr. Seuss’ treasured 1957 children’s book How the Grinch Stole Christmas! The animated story is a true television classic, with generations tuning in annually to watch the story of redemption with the despicable Grinch, the sweet Cindy Lou Who and the innocent dog Max. The exhibition Merry Grinchmas: Art of Dr. Seuss’ Holiday Classic features original cel art used in the cartoon’s production, along with concept drawings by Jones (famous for Looney Tunes) and those by Dr. Seuss.

(B)ART! America’s Funniest Animated Family showcases the often-irreverent antics of Homer, Marge, Lisa, Maggie and Bart—alongside many other unforgettable figures from the longest-running animated series on American television. Since its debut in 1989, there have been more than 770 episodes. Initially crafted through traditional ink-and-paint techniques on transparent acetate cels, the first 13 seasons (1989–2002) were produced by hand before transitioning to cost-effective digital animation. These hand-drawn cels are featured in the exhibition. In the early seasons elements, now vital to the series, were created, including the famous sofa and living room set used to open each episode, which is replicated at the DAI, allowing guests the chance to truly enter the fictional world of Springfield.

Fun and colorful, these two exhibitions showcase the art of illustration. A family-friendly and nostalgic outing, guests will enjoy more than 400 works of original art, as well as interactive sensory stations, educational resources and photo opportunities.

“In addition to learning about the art of animation and illustration, those attending our newest special exhibitions can expect a joyful, playful, and nostalgic experience,” said DAI Director & President Michael R. Roediger. “This artwork was created to bring a smile to your face and brighten your day. We’re excited to offer each guest the chance to slip away from any of life’s stresses and spend time reconnecting with characters they know and love. These two exhibitions are fun, colorful and truly memorable.”

Several related programs will be offered in conjunction with the Merry Grinchmas: Art of Dr. Seuss’ Holiday Classic & (B)ART! America’s Funniest Animated Family. These include:

Community Tour: November 2, 1–2 p.m.; November 23, 1–2 p.m.; December 7, 1–2 p.m.; December 19, 6–7 p.m.; January 18, 1–2 p.m.
Cost: Members: Free, Non-members: Included with the Price of Admission

Family Studio Special: December 7, 12:30–3:30 p.m.
Cost: Members: $20, Non-members: $25, Member Family 4-pack: $70, Non-member Family 4-pack: $90
Adult Studio Special: November 16, 12:30–3:30 p.m.
Cost: Members: $35, Non-members: $45
Ask Me Anything: November 7, 6–7 p.m., December 12, 6–7 p.m. and January 9, 6–7 p.m.
Cost: FREE

These exhibitions are from the collection of Bill Heeter and Kristi Correa. Admission to Merry Grinchmas: Art of Dr. Seuss’ Holiday Classic & (B)ART! America’s Funniest Animated Family is included in the museum’s general admission, which includes access to all Special and Focus Exhibitions currently on view, as well as the museum collection galleries. General admission is $15 adults; $10 seniors (60+), active military and groups (10 or more); $5 students (18+ w/ID) and youth (ages 7–17); and free for children (ages 6 & younger). Admission is free for museum members. Membership information can be found online at www.daytonartinstitute.org/membership.

Other current and upcoming Exhibitions at the museum include Captivating Clay: Contemporary Japanese Ceramics from the Horvitz Collection (on view until September 2025), Devil’s Promenade (on view until January 5, 2025), Making Faces: 18 Essential Kabuki Plays (on view until March 30, 2025) and The Need for Beauty (on view from November 30, 2024–May 18, 2025).

For more information about planning a visit, including current museum hours and updates, go to www.daytonartinstitute.org/visit or call 937-223-4ART (4278). Connect with the Dayton Art Institute on Facebook, X, Instagram, YouTube and Pinterest for additional information, behind-the-scenes photos and videos, and exclusive offers.

Polar Bear Express
2025-01-15, 2025-01-16, 2025-01-17, 2025-01-18 | Downtown Dayton
Thru Feb. 28 • Polar Bear Express
Routes throughout downtown; call for dates, times, and cost.
Book a ride aboard the abominably decorated Pedal Wagon for a 2-hour pedaling adventure through the festive streets of Dayton and to the best bars and restaurants. Reservations required. pedalwagon.com/dayton. 388-3006.

Ice Skating
2025-01-15, 2025-01-16, 2025-01-17, 2025-01-18 | RiverScape MetroPark, 237 E Monument Ave, Dayton, OH, 45402, United States
Sheltered under the covered pavilion, the MetroParks Ice Rink sets the scene as a perfect winter wonderland in downtown Dayton. While the rink is open, you can enjoy delicious treats from the concession area, including a cup of hot chocolate. Take advantage of fun skating activities, such as lessons, themed skating nights and more. Visit metroparks.org/ice-rink to learn more, find daily open hours, and see a schedule of events. Admission: $7 daily, ice skate rental: $3 daily. Season passes available. Ages 3 and under are free with a paying adult. 278-2607.

Erica Keener and Emily Moores Exhibit Artwork at Sinclair Community College
2025-01-15, 2025-01-16, 2025-01-17, 2025-01-18 | Galleries at Sinclair College, 444 W. Third St., Bldg. 13, Dayton, OH, 45402
The Sinclair Community College Art Department is pleased to present works by Erica Keener in the Works on Paper Gallery and Emily Moores in the Burnell R. Roberts Triangle Gallery. Erica Keener is exhibiting a collection of paintings made from pastels. Looking to the ordinary and her everyday surroundings, Keener focuses on observing the extraordinary. Her works often feature the sky, landscapes, and other natural beauty, which she hopes the viewer will find a connection to something larger than themselves. Emily Moores’s large scale collage-style installation features everyday materials like paper, fabric, and plastic. Her bright colors and varied textures create a whimsical space for viewers to experience feelings of joy and play as well as centering them in their physical space. There will be a virtual artist talk via Zoom on Friday, January 17, 2025, at 12pm. Visit www.sinclair.edu/artgalleries for details. The exhibitions will be on display from January 6–February 5, 2025. Galleries are located on the fourth floor of building 13 (located at West Fifth and Perry Streets). The galleries are free and open to the public from 8am–6pm Monday–Friday and 9am–12pm Saturdays.

Family Program: Winter Birds
2025-01-15 16:00 - 17:00 (America/Detroit) | Dayton Metro Library – Main Library, 215 E. Third Street, Dayton, OH, 45402
Family Program: Winter Birds, Wednesday, January 15, 4-5 pm, Main Library, Children’s Creativity Space: Learn all about the birds that call Ohio home, and make a bird feeder out of recycled materials. (Families)

Six
2025-01-15 19:30, 2025-01-16 19:30, 2025-01-17 20:00 | The Benjamin & Marian Schuster Performing Arts Center, 1 West Second Street, Dayton, OH, 45402
Divorced, beheaded, died, divorced, beheaded, survived.
From Tudor Queens to Pop Icons, the SIX wives of Henry VIII take the microphone to remix 500 years of historical heartbreak into a euphoric celebration of 21st century girl power! This new original musical is the global sensation that everyone is losing their head over!
SIX won 23 awards in the 2021/2022 Broadway season, including the Tony Award® for Best Original Score (Music and Lyrics) and the Outer Critics Circle Award for Best Musical.
The New York Times says SIX “TOTALLY RULES!” (Critic’s Pick) and The Washington Post hails SIX as “Exactly the kind of energizing, inspirational illumination this town aches for!”
The SIX: LIVE ON OPENING NIGHT Broadway album debuted at Number 1 on the Billboard cast album charts and surpassed 6 million streams in its first month.

Stage & Sip: Six
2025-01-16 16:30 | PNC Arts Annex, 46 N. Ludlow St., Dayton, OH, 45402
STAGE & SIP redefines the traditional theatre experience for adults ages 21 and up. On January 16 at 4:30 p.m., join us for an evening of Broadway magic and sophisticated entertainment prior to the performance of SIX. Delight in an exclusive workshop, indulge in a curated cocktail, and collect unique tour merchandise. Light hors d’oeuvres will be served and you can segue to BACKGROUND ON BROADWAY at 6:30 p.m. or grab a drink or snack at Starbucks or at the Performance Bars.
If you already have your tickets for the January 16 performance, you can add the STAGE & SIP to your evening by purchasing a STAGE & SIP Event Only ticket. Don’t have a ticket to the January 16 performance? No problem! Just purchase the STAGE & SIP + Show ticket! Each STAGE & SIP includes preshow cocktails, an exclusive workshop, and special tour merchandise.
Each person in your party must have a STAGE & SIP ticket to participate.

Adult Craft Club: Ice Painting
2025-01-16 18:30 - 20:00 | Dayton Metro Library – Main Library, 215 E. Third Street, Dayton, OH, 45402
Adult Craft Club: Ice Painting, Thursday, January 16, 6:30-8 pm, Main Library, Conference Room 1A: Use frozen ice and food dye to paint on watercolor paper. Registration required. (Adults)

Muse Machine Presents Cats
2025-01-16 19:00, 2025-01-17 19:30 | Victoria Theatre, 138 N. Main St., Dayton, OH, 45402, United States
Once a year, beneath the Jellicle moon, a tribe of cats comes together to tell their stories, to brag, to entertain and astonish… for the chance to be reborn to a brilliant new life! Winner of seven Tony Awards, including best musical — CATS is called “spectacular yet sophisticated” (The New York Times). Praised as “a performing arts all-star effort” (Dayton Daily News), Muse Machine brings an enormous cast of young people from across the Miami Valley to create a fast and funny reimagining of CATS to celebrate the 40th Muse musical!

Levitt UpClose: Secret Concert
2025-01-16 19:00 - 21:15 | Downtown Dayton
Join us on Thursday, January 16, for the next show in the Levitt UpClose concert series presented by CareSource! We’ll give you a little information before you buy, but here’s the fun part: we’ll let you know the exact location the day before the concert, and you’ll find out the bands as you hear them at the show! Sponsored by Faruki+ Location: 45402 zipcode Accessible building with elevator. Seats will be provided. Beverages will be available for purchase at this event. No outside coolers, beverages, or snacks are permitted. Limited tickets available. Tickets – $45
https://buytickets.at/levittpaviliondayton/1471114

Susan B. Byrnes: Lightness and Weight
2025-01-17 | The Contemporary Dayton, 25 W. Fourth St., Dayton, OH, 45402, United States
A groundbreaking exploration of the paradoxes inherent in the human experience drawing from themes in Milan Kundera’s novel, “The Unbearable Lightness of Being,” Lightness & Weight will feature three new sound and sculptural installations that explore the complexities and dualities of the human condition. The exhibition will include a variety of non-traditional materials including cast iron, tulle, artificial hair, glass, smoke, video, and sound. Byrnes, a sculptor and audio producer who most often uses her work to challenge and reflect on the burdens of sexism and the resilience of the female body, will launch a companion podcast series featuring interviews with women artists across various media and backgrounds. Created through a new partnership between The Co and WYSO 91.3 FM, the flagship National Public Radio (NPR) member station for the region, the podcast will provide an important platform for female voices in the arts, fostering dialogue and community engagement. Byrnes is a Cincinnati-based visual artist whose diverse body of work spans sculpture, multimedia installation, radio broadcasts, writing, and curatorial projects. Her work has been exhibited in galleries and museums across the Midwest, including the Korean Cultural Center of Chicago, the Dayton Art Institute, and the Weston Gallery, Cincinnati. OPENING NIGHT / JAN 17, 2025 Members Preview with the Artist 5-6 pm / Public Reception 6-8 pm

A Zachary Armstrong Curatorial Project
2025-01-17 | The Contemporary Dayton, 25 W. Fourth St., Dayton, OH, 45402, United States
Intricate. Intimate. From the heart. The Co presents the reveal of a new project by Zachary Armstrong—an enigmatic force whose work features the ritualistic repetition of symbols and motifs rooted in recollections of his childhood and family, of people and places, of rural Midwest Americana. While the details remain under wraps, we promise a love letter to technical innovation, imagination and memory as a means of connecting. Armstrong lives and works in Dayton, Ohio. Recent solo exhibitions include GNYP Gallery, Antwerp, Belgium (2023); Tilton Gallery, New York, NY (2022, 2018, 2016); Faurschou Foundation, New York, NY/Beijing, China (2022, 2021); and The Contemporary, Dayton, OH (2021); among others. FRIENDS & FAMILY RECEPTION / Jan 3, 2025 / 6-8 pm OPENING NIGHT / Jan 17, 2025 / 6-8 pm

Wellness Fridays at the Market
2025-01-17 11:30 - 12:30 | 2nd Street Market, 600 E. Second St., Dayton, OH, 45402, USA
During January on Fridays visit the Market for Wellness Fridays 1/3/25 Join the Market book club as they read “How Not to Die” by Michael Greger M.D. 1/10/25 Benefits of Elderberry Syrup: Make your Own Kit 1/17/25 Herbal Teals: How herbs support your overall health 1/24/25 Take a Tai Chi & Qigong class taught by Monica Shultz 1/31/25 Enjoy Passaddhi Yoga with Aleasha Smith

Exhibit: The Future of Female
2025-01-17 12:00 - 17:00 | Dayton Society of Artists, 48 High Street, Dayton, OH, 45402, United States
January 10th – FEBRUARY 22nd
The Dayton Society of Artists (DSA) is pleased to present The Future of Female, an exhibition focused on the ideals, hopes, and experiences of women identifying artists. The call for art was open to any women identifying artists who are 18 years or older and who live, work, or attend school in the state of Ohio. All art in any medium, style, and technique were considered. $600 in prizes will be awarded; the juror is McLean Emenegger.
Opening Reception: Friday, January 10th, 5 – 8 PM. Awards announced at 6:30 PM

Ohio Wedding Shows
2025-01-18 | Dayton Convention Center, 22 East 5th Street, Dayton, OH, 45402, United States
The preferred choice for engaged couples throughout Ohio. With over 35 years of expertise, we’ve consistently elevated the wedding planning experience in Cincinnati, Dayton, and Columbus. Your All-in-One Wedding Planning Hub Bid farewell to exhaustive internet searches and embrace our comprehensive wedding expos. Our events offer a priceless chance to connect with a diverse array of local and national wedding vendors, from Ohio’s top wedding photographers to exquisite florists, experienced DJs, and delectable caterers.
