Major Events & Festivals in Dayton, Ohio, United States

Dayton, United States, Dayton, Culture & Entertainment, Major Events & Festivals

Major Events & Festivals in Dayton, Ohio, United States

1. Dayton Air Show

A thrilling event showcasing aerial acrobatics and military demonstrations at the Dayton International Airport.
  • Military Demonstrations: Offers unique insight into military aircraft capabilities.
  • Static Display: Provides an up-close view of various aircraft models.
  • Fireworks Display: Ends the event with a spectacular fireworks show.

2. Dayton Celtic Festival

A celebration of Irish heritage featuring music, dance, food, and craft demonstrations.
  • Live Music and Dance Performances: Showcases traditional and contemporary Celtic tunes.
  • Celtic Marketplace: Offers a wide variety of unique, handmade Irish-themed items for purchase.
  • Cultural Workshops: Allows visitors to learn about various Celtic crafts and traditions.

3. Dayton Greek Food Festival

A vibrant celebration of Greek culture through food, dance, music, and art.
  • Traditional Greek Cuisine: Features authentic dishes such as gyro, moussaka, and baklava.
  • Live Dance Performances: Showcases traditional Greek dances in elaborate costumes.
  • Art Exhibits: Displays unique, handcrafted artwork inspired by Greek culture.

4. Wright Brothers Day

Celebrates the achievement of the Wright Brothers and their contribution to aviation history.
  • Aircraft Displays: Showcases a wide variety of historical and modern aircraft.
  • Living History Encampment: Offers insight into life during the time of the Wright Brothers.
  • Air Show: Features aerial demonstrations to commemorate their first flight.

5. Dayton Dragons Baseball Games

Watch a Minor League Baseball game at the family-friendly Fifth Third Field.
  • Affordable Family Fun: Provides an affordable entertainment option for families.
  • Interactive Activities: Offers pre-game activities, including player autograph sessions and on-field competitions.
  • Themed Nights: Provides opportunities to celebrate various themes, such as Star Wars Night or Superhero Night.

6. Dayton Pride Parade & Festival

A celebration of the LGBTQ+ community with a parade, music, food, and vendors.
  • Pride Parade: Features colorful floats, marching bands, and diverse groups representing the LGBTQ+ community.
  • Entertainment Stages: Offers live music performances throughout the day.
  • Vendor Marketplace: Showcases a wide variety of LGBTQ+-friendly products and services.

7. Dayton Art Museum First Sundays

Free admission to the Dayton Art Museum on the first Sunday of each month.
  • Permanent Collection: Features a diverse collection of artworks from various cultures and time periods.
  • Temporary Exhibitions: Displays rotating exhibits focusing on specific themes or artists.
  • Family-Friendly Activities: Offers hands-on art activities for visitors of all ages.

8. Dayton Greek Festival Boat Cruise

Experience a traditional Greek dance performance on a boat cruise during the Dayton Greek Food Festival.
  • Authentic Dance Performance: Features live music and a lively performance by the Zorba Dance Troupe.
  • Cruise Along the Great Miami River: Offers a unique perspective of Dayton's riverfront and skyline.
  • Complimentary Greek Appetizers: Enjoy complimentary Greek appetizers while on the cruise.

9. Dayton International Peace Museum

Explore the history and impact of peace movements and conflicts around the world.
  • Permanent Exhibits: Includes interactive displays, artifacts, and multimedia presentations.
  • Changing Exhibitions: Features rotating exhibits focusing on various aspects of peace and conflict.
  • Peace Education Programs: Offers workshops, lectures, and community events related to peace studies.

10. Dayton Artists' Open Studio Tour (DOST)

Visit the studios of local artists during this annual self-guided tour.
  • Access to Local Artists: Provides an opportunity to meet and interact with local artists.
  • Artwork Sales: Allows visitors to purchase artwork directly from the artists.
  • Demonstrations and Workshops: Offers demonstrations and workshops on various art techniques.

11. Dayton RiverScape Ice Rink

Skate on the downtown Dayton's RiverScape Ice Rink during the winter months.
  • Ice Skating: Offers ice skating for all ages and skill levels.
  • Skate Rentals: Provides skate rentals for those who do not have their own equipment.
  • Holiday Light Show: Features a dazzling light show synchronized with holiday music.

12. Dayton Art in Motion Festival

A celebration of dance and movement, featuring performances, workshops, and collaborations.
  • Live Dance Performances: Showcases a variety of dance styles and genres.
  • Workshops and Masterclasses: Offers opportunities for visitors to learn new dance techniques.
  • Collaborative Performances: Features collaborations between local and international artists.

13. Dayton Celtic Harvest Fair

A celebration of the harvest season with food, music, dance, and crafts.
  • Harvest-themed Foods: Offers traditional dishes made with fresh, locally grown ingredients.
  • Artisan Marketplace: Showcases handmade crafts and products inspired by Celtic culture.
  • Live Music and Dance Performances: Features live music and dance performances throughout the day.

14. Dayton Human Rights Film Festival

A festival showcasing films that address human rights issues from around the world.
  • Film Screenings: Offers a variety of documentaries, narratives, and animated films.
  • Panel Discussions: Features panel discussions with filmmakers, activists, and experts on human rights issues.
  • Human Rights Awards: Recognizes individuals and organizations making a positive impact in human rights.

15. Dayton Greek Food Festival Wine Dinner

Experience a four-course wine dinner with paired wines during the Dayton Greek Food Festival.
  • Gourmet Four-Course Meal: Features delectable dishes made with traditional Greek recipes.
  • Paired Wines: Offers a selection of wines carefully chosen to complement each course.
  • Chef Demonstrations: Provides opportunities to learn from experienced Greek chefs.