Downtown Dayton Events Calendar
Events in Downtown Dayton, including Theater, Festivals, Art Exhibits, Live Music, Concerts and more.
Downtown Dayton in Dayton
2nd Street Market
Sunday, November 08 2026
Reminiscent of European markets, 2nd Street Market is alive with local growers, bakers, culinary specialists, artisans, people, and activity during market hours. OUTDOOR MARKET NOW OPEN!
96th Annual Waffle Shop
Wednesday, November 11 2026
Waffle Shop is a 96 year tradition at Christ Church. We raise funds through the sale of our beloved waffle lunches, and then grant the proceeds to small local non-profits benefiting the poor and marginalized. A week early!
Ella Kraimer: Appearances
Wednesday, November 11 2026
Photographic staged self-portraits exploring fictional identities shaped through irony, humor, and cultural critique.
Member's Spotlight Exhibition: Michael Hicks: Fragments for Memory
Wednesday, November 11 2026
The Contemporary Dayton's Member's Spotlight Exhibition for November is Michael Hicks. Opening Reception: November 4, 6-8 pm
Stacy Kranitz: Ain't No Grave Gonna Hold My Body Down
Wednesday, November 11 2026
A complex portrait of Appalachia shaped by myth, exploitation, and resilience in over 75 photographs.
Wild Kratts LIVE Stage Show Coming to the Schuster Center
Wednesday, November 11 2026
Come see the Kratt brothers LIVE at the Schuster Center Wednesday, November 11, 2026.
Artist Talk: Ella Kraimer
Thursday, November 12 2026
Join us for an in-person conversation with the artist Ella Kraimer. Led by Interim Director and Chief Curator, Heather Jones.
Social Vintage Dance Lessons Friday Nights
Friday, November 13 2026
We socially dance many types of historical and modern dances. Our emphasis is typically on having fun with partnered social dances, but we also do set dances, circle dances, line dances, and solo dance as well.
23rd Annual Oregon District Barstool
Saturday, November 14 2026
Join United Rehabilitation Services for the Oregon District Barstool Open on November 14! Teams of four enjoy bar-hopping mini-golf, food, fun, and prizes while supporting children and adults with disabilities. $160 per team!
America's Packard Museum's Annual Blackjack Ball
Saturday, November 14 2026
Blackjack Ball returns for an unforgettable evening of casino-style entertainment, live jazz, specialty bourbons & cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, and many legendary Packards with stories of their own.
Front Street Saturdays
Saturday, November 14 2026
Front Street is OPEN EVERY SATURDAY!!! Boutiques, workshops, & studios are open across campus EVERY SATURDAY 11A-4P!
Gem City Luxe Market - November Sip & Shop
Saturday, November 14 2026
Whether you're getting a head start on holiday shopping or planning a fun night out with friends, Sip & Shop is the perfect opportunity to shop local, discover something new, and enjoy an evening downtown.
Guided Tours
Saturday, November 14 2026
Join us for a closer look at the exhibition, with fresh insights into the artists currently on view and their work. FREE and open to all.
Pet Afflaire Gala
Saturday, November 14 2026
Humane Society of Greater Dayton: Join us for the 35th Annual Pet Afflaire Gala as we transport you to the rolling hills, vineyards, and timeless charm during “Tails in Tuscany.”
STAND BY ME: The Film and Its Stars 40 Years Later
Saturday, November 14 2026
A Night of Reflection, Connection, and the Friendships That Shape Us with Corey Feldman, Jerry O'Connell and Wil Wheaton
Collage Night
Thursday, November 19 2026
Come get creative in a relaxed gallery setting. No experience necessary. Free for Members of The Contemporary Dayton, $10 at the door for non-Members.
Art21 Screening: Human Nature
Friday, November 20 2026
A screening of the Art21 episode “Human Nature.” Hosted by The Contemporary Dayton & Art21 Screening Society. Attendance is limited. Free and open to all with registration. This event is presented in collaboration with Art2
Nurse Blake But Did You Die? Comedy Tour
Friday, November 20 2026
Nurse Blake is back with his hilarious new comedy tour with all-new content, diving into the wildest things patients and their families say and do.
Artist Feedback Forum
Saturday, November 21 2026
To build community and foster the sharing of ideas, The Contemporary Dayton offers an Artist's Feedback Forum for Artist Members. Bring a finished work or a work of art in progress to receive constructive feedback.
Barber Cello Concerto & Haydn’s Wartime Mass
Saturday, November 21 2026
Joining forces with the brilliant cellist Miriam K. Smith and guest conductor Joel Smirnoff, the Philharmonic explores themes of resilience and hope.
Christmas With Cantus
Saturday, November 21 2026
CHRISTMAS WITH CANTUS: bringing the holiday spirit to Dayton, Ohio! 🎶 Enjoy Holiday Classics on Saturday, November 21, 2026 at the historic Victoria Theatre🎄
Photos with Santa
Saturday, November 21 2026
This year Figment will be offering one day of private photos with Santa, hosted by Knack Video + Photo. Each session includes 10 minutes with Santa and 3-5 final, edited digital files. Plus, enjoy hot cocoa and cookies!
Clue
Tuesday, November 24 2026
Broadway in Dayton ✨ Murder and blackmail are on the menu when six mysterious guests assemble at Boddy Manor for a night they’ll never forget! CLUE is at The Schuster Nov 24 - Nov 29, 2026
Feast of Giving - Thanksgiving in Dayton
Thursday, November 26 2026
FREE Thanksgiving meal and celebration! Join us for our annual🦃 "Feast of Giving", a traditional Thanksgiving meal with fellowship, live music and engaging activities for kids all day long.
Christkindl Market at Front Street
Saturday, November 28 2026
Shop small and local this holiday season! On Small Business Saturday, bring your friends and family to Front Street’s 7th Annual Christkindl Market! Dress up for FREE selfies with Santa!
Love Actually In Concert
Saturday, November 28 2026
Fall in love with the holidays all over again at LOVE ACTUALLY IN CONCERT coming to the Victoria Theatre November 28, 2026!
Dayton PechaKucha Night
Thursday, December 03 2026
Another unpredictable mix of speakers with thoughts that will carbonate your brains.
2026 Dayton Holiday Festival Grande Illumination
Friday, December 04 2026
The Grande Illumination Dayton Holiday Festival traditional tree lighting and Dayton Children's Parade Spectacular in Lights - December 4
