
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.