Dayton, Ohio
Upcoming Events in Dayton Ohio
January
| 5 - 6 |
The Original Toughman Contest
- The Original Toughman Contest returns to Hara with local fighters competing for bragging rights, cash prizes and the chance to compete in the national Toughman Contest. Fighters will compete based on weight class and previous fighting experience. The event begins at 8 p.m. on both Friday and Saturday night. Address: Hara Arena, 1001 Shiloh Springs , Dayton, Ohio |
| 26 - 29 |
Miami Valley Home Improvement Show
- Imagining more possibilities for your home? Make them happen at the Miami Valley Home Improvement Show. The award-winning show returns with all the exhibits, seminars and special features that the Miami Valley has come to expect. Patrons can visit with home improvement specialists at over 120 displays, attend free seminars and do-it-yourself demonstrations. Four impressive landscaping feature areas will give a preview of the blossoms and foliage to come. Address: Hara Arena, 1001 Shiloh Springs , Dayton, Ohio |
March
| 17 |
SunWatch Family Day: Bone Tools
- Learn how the villagers at SunWatch used the bones of deer and other animals that they hunted to fashion tools that they could use in many situations. SunWatch Family Days are open to the general public and no advanced registration is required. Family Day event runs from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM; general admission fees apply, free for museum members. Address: SunWatch Indian Village/Archaeological Park,2301 West River Rd , Dayton, Ohio |
| 1 - 16 |
Tavern Dinners at Carillon Historical Park
- Enjoy the region's most unique dining experience as you are served a 19th century hearth cooked meal in Newcom Tavern! Travel back in time to Dayton's most intriguing dining event at the city's oldest establishment, Newcom Tavern. Guests will begin the evening by visiting the William Morris House next door to watch, and participate in, the preparation of the multi-course meal from fresh ingredients over the stone hearth. As the dinner courses are arranged, the hearth cooks will share insight into the historically accurate methods and materials of the 19th century food preparation. Candlelit dining within the walls of Newcom Tavern will be followed by a special dessert. A question and answer session with Dayton History's knowledgeable programming staff will conclude the evening. Dinners start at approximately 6:00 p.m. Cost: $45/members, $50/non-members. Space is limited - prepaid reservations are required. For more information, contact Alex Heckman: (937) 293-2841, ext. 101 or e-mail. Address: Dayton History at Carillon Historical Park, 1000 Carillon Blvd. , Dayton, Ohio |
| 16 | 
SWAN (Support Women Artists Now) Day Dayton
- Building off of the success of last year’s inaugural standing-room only event, SWAN Day Dayton 2013 will be held on Saturday March 30th at 2pm. Join artists and community members in a celebration of Ohio female artists. The showcase is free and includes films, poetry, plays, music, dance, short stories and visual arts. Featured artists include filmmakers Ursula, Gabrielle, Jennifer, Charity, and Maria Burton of Fiver Sisters Productions, R&B singer and songwriter Adriane Caffey, poet Elizabeth Cantonwine Schmidt, actor Daniel Cermak, actor Whitney Davis, filmmaker Rani Deighe Crowe, theatre director and actor Andy Falter, spoken word artist and rapper Kim Gerhold, actor Daniel Grigg, actor Elizabeth Harelik, author Sandra J. Kachurek, the Kilbourne Drama Club, flute trio Knotwork Flutes, playwright Stacey Lane, singer, songwriter and guitarist Talianna LeVangie, sketch comedy filmmaker Alex Mangen, dancer and choreographer Crystal Michelle, filmmaker Eric Risher, poet and author Maranda Russell, poet Claudia Skutar, filmmaker Alex Taylor, actor Greta Wolking and theatre director Jacob Wright. Can’t wait for SWAN Day? You don’t have to. Come to the Dayton Metro Library Main Branch between now and March 30th to see SWAN visual artists’ work displayed throughout the library. This diverse exhibit includes works by Bonnie Adams Brestelli, Laura Ceville, Sarah Fortener, Janyce Denise Glasper, Terri Melia Hamlin, Ellie Lane, Crystal Leisure, Heather Lea Reid, and Karen Webb. SWAN Day Dayton is produced by Dara Cosby and Stacey Lane and is co-sponsored by the Dayton Metro Library and Joy Schwab. This event is part of an international celebration of women artists taking place on the last Saturday of Women’s History Month. There have been over 900 SWAN Day events in 23 countries in the first five years of SWAN Day. Address: Dayton Metro Library Main Branch Auditorium 215 E. Third St. Dayton, Ohio 45402 , Dayton, Ohio |
April
| 31 |
Bike-With-A-Ranger: Looking to the Sky - Pinnacle?s of Achievement
- Celebrate Earth Day and National Park Week with this mid-day, casually paced bicycle tour exploring select locations connected to the story of the Wright brothers. By visiting one of the places they observed bird flight, the ride program focuses on the Wright?s application of bird observations in the development of flight theory and practice. Bring your own safe and functional bicycles and personal gear; helmets required. Start time is for registration and orientation. Please arrive early. Estimated duration includes ride time and educational stops at historic sites but does not include pre-ride registration and orientation. Bicycles are subject to a safety inspection. Distance: 15-20 miles; Time: 4 hrs; Difficulty: Easy to Difficult; Route: Streets and bikeway; Advance registration encouraged Address: Wright-Dunbar Interpretive Center |
| 20 |
Junior Ranger Earth Day Activities
- Children ages 6-12 are invited to build and fly paper airplanes as part of the activities to become a Junior Ranger. Stop at the Wright-Dunbar Interpretive Center or the Huffman Prairie Flying Field Interpretive Center any time between 10:00am until 4:00pm. Each participant will receive a Junior Ranger handbook and participate in activities with a park ranger. Successful participants receive a special certificate and badge on completing the Junior Ranger activities. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Address: Wright-Dunbar Interpretive Center, 16 South Williams , Dayton, Ohio |
May
| 18 |
SunWatch Family Day: Archaeology
- Learn the tools and techniques used in archaeology that help us learn about the past while helping us excavate. SunWatch Family Days are open to the general public and no advanced registration is required. Address: SunWatch Indian Village/Archaeological Park, 2301 West River Rd , Dayton, Ohio |
June
| 19 - 21 |
Bike-with-a-Ranger Cycle Tours
- Explore the Dayton's exceptional history by bicycle, a mode of transportation rooted in the time of the Wright brothers. The tours emphasize the life and times of Paul Laurence Dunbar, Wilbur and Orville Wright and the many pinnacles of accomplishment made in Dayton. Each ride is casually paced to the slowest rider to enjoy and learn. Routes and stops vary in length. Riders are required to have safe & functional bicycles and personal gear, including helmets. Start times are for registration and orientation. Please arrive early. Ride generally starts ? hour later. Estimated ride times include riding and educational stops, but do not include pre-ride registration and orientation. Bicycles are subject to a safety inspection. Contact the park for starting pointes and other up to date details, or check the website for the latest information. Address: Wright-Dunbar Interpretive Center, 16 South Williams , Dayton, Ohio |
| 25 |
SunWatch Family Day: Gardening
- Did you know that the Fort Ancient were Ohio's first farmers? Learn about their prehistoric gardening techniques. Help us plant our reconstructed American Indian garden. Special talk and hands-on activity, fun for all ages! Address: SunWatch Indian Village/Archaeological Park, 2301 West River Rd. , Dayton, Ohio |
| 26 | 
Jim & Dan Comic and Toy Show
- Jim & Dan Comic and Toy Show is a quarterly show that is held at the Wright State University Student Center, (corner of Colonel Glenn Highway and University Blvd). Over 100 tables of Toys, Comics, Collectibles, Creators and gaming. Dealer tables (6') are $60. Family friendly event fun for one and all. Other 2018 dates are August 5, December 2 .Address: Wright State University Student Center, 3640 Colonel Glenn Highway , Dayton, Ohio |
| 15 - 16 |
Keeping the Tradition Pow Wow
- Join in the celebration of The Miami Valley Council for Native Americans' Annual Keeping the Tradition Pow Wow. Explore a tradition exemplifying generosity and giving while enjoying traditional dancing, arts and crafts, food, and singing. Be sure to wear light weight clothing and bring a camera, water, sun protection and a lawn chair or blanket. Address: SunWatch Indian Village/Archaeological Park, 2301 West River Road , Dayton, Ohio |
| 15 - 16 |
Dayton Air Show
- Founded in 1974, the Vectren Dayton Air Show is one of the country's premier air shows. The event showcases world-class aerobatic champions, military jet demonstrations and entertainment for the whole family including educational outreach programs, such as Aerospace Adventures and SOAR. Address: Dayton Air Show, 3800 Wright Drive , Dayton, Ohio |
July
| 29 |
SunWatch Family Day: House Building
- Have you ever helped build a prehistoric Fort Ancient house? Here's your chance! Learn how we reconstructed our 800 year old Native American village using experimental archaeological techniques. Special talk and hands-on activities. Fun for all ages. SunWatch Family Days are open to the general public and no advance registration is required. Address: SunWatch Indian Village/Archaeological Park, 2301 West River Road , Dayton, Ohio |
| 19 - 21 |
Dayton Celtic Festival
- Please join us and saturate your senses in the sights, sounds, and tastes of our Celtic heritage. Shop with our merchandise vendors for everything from Celtic souvenirs to the finest products imported from Ireland, Scotland, and Great Britain. Eat, drink, and be merry in our authentic Celtic food court. Enjoy crafts and activities in the area built especially for children, "Rainbow's End Children's Area". Discover the magic that keeps people returning to Dayton's Celtic Festival year after year. Activities include: 5K Run/Walk and Cornhole Tournament on Saturday (go to website for registration/sign-up forms), Celtic workshops at the Dayton Art Institute and UD, Children's Parade, Clan Desdin (Highland Scots re-enactment camp with demonstrations), artisan's demonstrations, trace your roots, Gaelic Mass on Sunday, local dance schools will perform, a music workshop on-stage, and lots of entertainment including the band, Gaelic Storm, and many others. Address: Riverscape, 111 E. Monument Avenue , Dayton, Ohio |
August
| 20 |
SunWatch Family Day: Native Prairie
- Explore the SunWatch prairie and learn about how we are working to restore our prairie to its native state and how important the prairie resources were to the Fort Ancient Native Americans that lived at SunWatch almost 800 years ago. SunWatch Family Days are open to the general public and no advanced registration is required. Family Day events run from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM; general admission fees apply, free for museum members. Address: SunWatch Indian Village/Archaeological Park, 2301 West River Rd , Dayton, Ohio |
| 20 |
American Legion Inaugural Car & Bike Show
- American Legion Inaugural Car & Bike Show. Gates open at 10:00 a.m. for registration Event time is 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. $10.00 entry fee for show vehicles $5.00 general admission and children 10 and under admitted FREE w/paying adult. Awards, games, raffles, door prizes, trivia, Great Oldies Music and food. This event is open to all vehicles. Address: 1510 Webster Street , Dayton, Ohio |
| 28 | 
Jim & Dan Comic and Toy Show
- Jim & Dan Comic and Toy Show is a quarterly show that is held at the Wright State University Student Center, (corner of Colonel Glenn Highway and University Blvd), Dayton Ohio 45435 . Over 100 tables of Toys , Comics, Collectibles, Creators and gaming. Dealer tables (6') are $60. Family friendly event fun for one and all. Other 2018 dates are December 2 . Show hours are 10-4.Address: Wright State University Student Center, 3640 Colonel Glenn Highway , Dayton, Ohio |
September
| 17 |
SunWatch Family Day: Harvest
- Learn about the crops that Ohio's first farmers grew and how they stored them through a special talk and activity. SunWatch Family Days are open to the general public and no advanced registration is required. Address: SunWatch Indian Village/Archaeological Park, 2301 West River Road , Dayton, Ohio |
| 25 |
Grandparents Day Tea Party
- Join us in a 19th century afternoon tea party celebrating Grandparents Day at the historic Patterson Homestead, Sunday September 9, from 2 p.m. - 4 p.m. Enjoy hot tea, iced tea, lemonade, a variety of pastries, tea sandwiches and desserts on the front lawn while being served by servers in 19th-century costume. Learn about John's and Frank's (co-founders of NCR) grandparents who first settled in Dayton in 1804. Tour the homestead's five 19th-century rooms and one Patterson exhibit room. Discover a unique tea set in each period room. Don't miss your chance to celebrate grandparents at the Patterson Homestead afternoon tea. Tickets are $20 per Dayton History member and $25 per non-member. Tickets may also be purchased for $20 each for two or more people. Space is limited. For more information, or to make reservations, please call (937) 222-9724. Period dress is welcome. Address: Dayton History at Patterson Homestead, 1815 Brown Street , Dayton, Ohio |
| 6 - 8 |
Oktoberfest at the Dayton Art Institute
- A Dayton tradition for more than 35 years, this annual festival features international foods, fine arts and crafts, kids' activities, family entertainment, non-stop music, and of course, German beer! Address: The Dayton Art Institute, 456 Belmonte Park North , Dayton, Ohio |
| 14 - 15 |
Apple Fest
- September is here and that means the food, entertainment and fun of Aullwood Apple Fest! What could be more enjoyable than spending a beautiful autumn day at Aullwood Farm enjoying the sights and sounds of Apple Fest? The whistle of Ken Ullery's antique Gaar-Scott steam engine and the delicious aroma of simmering apple butter beckon one and all to the festivities. Apple Fest means delicious food! Sample apple pie baked in a Dutch oven, freshly pressed cider, caramel apples and home-made ice cream. Corn-on-the-cob, roasted almonds, apple dumplings, kettle corn, lamb chili and apple fritters taste great on an autumn afternoon and Aullwood's food booth features a variety of sandwiches made with our organic meats. Exciting children's activities will keep the little ones entertained with crafts and games. Everyone enjoys a visit with farm animal friends and a tractor or draft horse pulled wagon ride. Address: Aullwood Audubon Farm, 9101 Frederick Pike , Dayton, Ohio |
October
| 20 - 5 |
Tavern Dinners at Carillon Historical Park
- Enjoy the region's most unique dining experience as you are served a 19th century hearth cooked meal in Newcom Tavern! Travel back in time to Dayton's most intriguing dining event at the city's oldest establishment, Newcom Tavern. Guests will begin the evening by visiting the William Morris House next door to watch, and participate in, the preparation of the multi-course meal from fresh ingredients over the stone hearth. As the dinner courses are arranged, the hearth cooks will share insight into the historically accurate methods and materials of the 19th century food preparation. Candlelit dining within the walls of Newcom Tavern will be followed by a special dessert. A question and answer session with Dayton History's knowledgeable programming staff will conclude the evening. Dinners start at approximately 6:00 p.m. Cost: $45/members, $50/non-members. Space is limited - prepaid reservations are required. For more information, contact Alex Heckman: (937) 293-2841, ext. 101 or e-mail. Address: Dayton History at Carillon Historical Park, 1000 Carillon Blvd. , Dayton, Ohio |
| 21 |
Artifact Identification Day
- Pull those shoeboxes full of artifacts out from under the bed or the back of the closet and bring them to SunWatch to see what you have and learn how old they are. Dayton Society of Natural History archaeologists will help you identify those archaeological materials that have been gathering dust- arrowheads and spear points, axes, celts, bone tools, and whatever else you have. Artifact Identification Day is open to the general public and no advanced registration is required. Event runs from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM; general admission fees apply, free for museum members. Address: SunWatch Indian Village/Archaeological Park, 2301 West River Rd , Dayton, Ohio |
| 27 - 28 |
Enchanted Forest
- Journey into the Enchanted Forest to meet amazing animal characters that share their dramatic stories in a fun way! Enjoy stories around a bonfire, a guided tour of the Enchanted Forest and refreshments. This non-scary, fun event is best suited for children ages 2-10. Cost is $5.00 per person for one trail, $8.00 for both trails. Children 2 and under are free. Address: Aullwood Audubon Farm, 9101 Frederick Pike , Dayton, Ohio |
| 28 |
SunWatch Family Day: Astronomy
- Did you know that the Fort Ancient Indians who lived at SunWatch constructed their village as a giant solar calendar? Learn about ancient and modern astronomy. Special guest astronomer, talks, hands-on activities, and more. Fun for all ages! SunWatch Family Days are open to the general public and no advance registration is required. Family Day events run from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM; general admission fees apply, free for museum members. Address: SunWatch Indian Village/Archaeological Park, 2301 West River Rd. , Dayton, Ohio |
| 30 - 3 |
Annual Scarecrow Convention
- Visit the gardens at Wegerzyn Gardens MetroPark between mid October and mid November to see scarecrows created by Dayton area children and families. They are colorful, creative and often comical. Both children and adults will enjoy strolling the gardens to discover scarecrows placed throughout. Address: Wegerzyn Gardens MetroPark, 1301 E. Siebenthaler Ave. , Dayton, Ohio |
| 5 |
Halloween Scavenger Hunt at the Wright-Dunbar Interpretive Center
- Children 6 years old or older are invited to the visit the Wright-Dunbar Interpretive Center during program hours to look for pumpkins, black cats, ghosts and spiders (pictures only). Successful scavengers receive a prize for completed forms. Address: Wright-Dunbar Interpretive Center, 16 South Williams , Dayton, Ohio |
| 5 |
Halloween Scavenger Hunt
- Children 6 years old or older are invited to the visit the Wright-Dunbar Interpretive Center during program hours to look for pumpkins, black cats, ghosts and spiders (pictures only). Prizes will be awarded for completed forms. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Address: Wright-Dunbar Interpretive Center |
November
| 19 |
SunWatch Family Day: Hunting & Tools
- Bow & arrows... Atlatls... Could you catch your dinner with these? Learn about American Indian tools & hunting techniques. Special talk and activity. Fun for all ages. SunWatch Family Days are open to the public and no advance registration is required. Family Day event runs from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Address: SunWatch Indian Village/Archaeological Park, 2301 W. River Rd. , Dayton, Ohio |
| 26 - 27 |
National Model Railroad Association Dayton Train Show
- The Annual Dayton Train Show is one of the biggest and best in the state of Ohio with thousands of square feet featuring the largest exhibition of operating train layouts in the area, vendor tables and trains for the kids to ride. The show, presented by National Model Railroad Association, features over 300 tables that will showcase all the new, antique and collectible trains and accessories needed to start or expand a model train hobby. Continuous "how-to" clinics, door prizes and a layout raffle round out the show. Kids can look for the "Thomas the Tank Engine" display and enter to win a "Thomas" train set. Address: Hara Arena, 1001 Shiloh Springs , Dayton, Ohio |
| 27 |
Annual Ringing in the Holidays
- Kick off a holly jolly season as Dayton History hosts the Annual Ringing in the Holidays, on Sunday from 5 - 8 p.m. The event is presented by the Dayton History Bell Board. Attendees will once again taste the sweet flavor of "Dayton's Most Delightful Dessert" contest, featuring desserts from several of Dayton's area restaurants. Attendees will also enjoy musical entertainment and a silent and live auction. All proceeds from Ringing in the Holidays benefit Dayton History's educational programs and artifact preservation. Individual tickets are sold in advance for $45 per person for members and $50 for non-members. Interested parties should call (937) 293-2841, ext. 105 for more information. Address: Dayton History at Carillon Historical Park, 1000 Carillon Blvd. , Dayton, Ohio |
| 27 |
Antique & Collectible Toy and Hobby Show
- Hara welcomes the return of the Antique & Collectible Toy and Hobby Show! It features a wide variety of old, new and vintage toys. Address: Hara Arena, 1001 Shiloh Springs , Dayton, Ohio |
| 8 |
Dayton Children's Parade
- A special holiday parade for the entire family! The Dayton Children's Parade is a highlight of the Dayton Holiday Festival and always an exciting event for both the young and old. Come and experience a fun holiday parade that takes place in Downtown Dayton. Address: Downtown Dayton, Second & Main Streets , Dayton, Ohio |
| 8 |
Grande Illumination
- Known as the official kickoff to the holiday season, the Grande Illumination is the perfect event for all ages. It all takes place in Downtown Dayton from 4-9 p.m. Come and enjoy live entertainment, enjoy childrens games and crafts in the Holiday Village, carnival rides, shop in The Tike's Shop in the Schuster Center, enjoy a horse-drawn carriage ride and more! The giant holiday tree will come to life at 7:55 p.m., so plan to be downtown for all the fun! Address: Downtown Dayton, Courthouse Square , Dayton, Ohio |
| 15 - 17 |
The National Holiday Gift Show
- The National Holiday Gift Show is one of Ohio’s largest indoor gifts & crafts show. Vendors from all over the country will be participating in this show in its time-honored Thanksgiving weekend tradition in the Miami Valley. Over 10,000 shoppers will be browsing through over 340 booths featuring arts, crafts, collectibles, ceramics, personalized items, toys, holiday and home decor, floral wreaths, arrangements and much more! Show hours are Friday and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and on Sunday from noon to 4 p.m. Limited vendor spaces still available. For more information about the show, or to receive a vendor application, please call Brooke Jett at (937) 278-4776 x215 or visit the website. Address: Hara Arena, 1001 Shiloh Springs , Dayton, Ohio |
December
| 16 |
SunWatch Family Day: Toys & Games
- Learn about the toys and games played by American Indians. Try some, then make and take one home! Just in time for some holiday fun. Special talk and hands-on activities. SunWatch Family Days are open to the public, no advance registration is required. Address: SunWatch Indian Village/Archaeological Park, 2301 W. River Rd. , Dayton, Ohio |
| 24 | 
Jim & Dan Comic and Toy Show
- Jim & Dan Comic and Toy Show is a quarterly show that is held at the Wright State University Student Center, (corner of Colonel Glenn Highway and University Blvd), Dayton Ohio 45435 . Over 100 tables of Toys , Comics, Collectibles, Creators and gaming. Dealer tables (6') are $60. Family friendly event fun for one and all. Show hours are 10-4.Address: Wright State University Student Center, 3640 Colonel Glenn Highway , Dayton, Ohio |
| 29 - 30 |
SunWatch Winter Solstice Sleepover
- Spend the night in our reconstructed American Indian village to celebrate the Winter Solstice. Enjoy an evening tour of the museum and village, make crafts and settle down for a night in one of the reconstructed 800-year-old houses. Address: SunWatch Indian Village/Archaeological Park, 2301 W. River Rd. , Dayton, Ohio |
| 29 - 30 |
Tavern Dinners at Carillon Historical Park
- Enjoy the region's most unique dining experience as you are served a 19th century hearth cooked meal in Newcom Tavern! Travel back in time to Dayton's most intriguing dining event at the city's oldest establishment, Newcom Tavern. Guests will begin the evening by visiting the William Morris House next door to watch, and participate in, the preparation of the multi-course meal from fresh ingredients over the stone hearth. As the dinner courses are arranged, the hearth cooks will share insight into the historically accurate methods and materials of the 19th century food preparation. Candlelit dining within the walls of Newcom Tavern will be followed by a special dessert. A question and answer session with Dayton History's knowledgeable programming staff will conclude the evening. Friday and Saturday. Dinners start at approximately 6:00 p.m. Cost: $45/members, $50/non-members. Space is limited - prepaid reservations are required. For more information, contact Alex Heckman: (937) 293-2841, ext. 101 or e-mail. Address: Dayton History at Carillon Historical Park, 1000 Carillon Blvd. , Dayton, Ohio |
| 23 |
Kid's New Year's Eve
- Lets Celebrate the New Year! Bring the whole family - from Grandma Betty and Uncle Joe to Teenager Will and Baby Emma - for a night filled with tons of activities, including karaoke, Laser Light shows, crafts, special animal presentations and games. Dance to the sounds of Z-93 and win great prizes for all the right moves. The night is a fun way to spice up the holidays and includes a light dinner. Get up-close and personal with the Z-93 and WROU radio personalities. End the night in true New Year's Eve style with an official Ball Drop, just for kids. Tickets go on sale December 1. Address: Boonshoft Museum of Discovery, 2600 DeWeese Parkway , Dayton, Ohio |