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"Dayton Events: Don’t Make Weekend Plans Until You Read This”

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"Dayton Events: Don’t Make Weekend Plans Until You Read This”

"Dayton Events: Don’t Make Weekend Plans Until You Read This”
Don't miss out on the latest Dayton events, discover a hidden gem of a park and a delicious recipe of the week. And don't forget to check out our home tips for some useful advice!

Alan Vandergrift

Jan 16, 2026

Trivia Question❓

What Dayton site is known as one of the world’s earliest airfields used by the Wright brothers?

Answer at the bottom of the newsletter

Dayton Events

Dayton, Ohio (and nearby) — Events by Date

📅 January 17–24, 2026
⏰ All times shown in Eastern Time

 

Saturday, January 17

 
8:15–11:15 AM
Row Cycle Fitness Anniversary Sample Classes Fitness / Wellness
Row Cycle Fitness (124 Westpark Rd., Centerville, OH 45459) • Free • Free 30-minute sample classes including Bootcamp (8:15), Cycling (9:00 & 10:30), Rowing & Strength (9:45), and Deep Stretch Yoga (11:15).
 
10:00 AM–4:00 PM
Greater Dayton Home Show Home & Garden
Montgomery County Fairgrounds • Free admission & parking • Home remodeling, kitchens and baths, lawn and garden ideas, and local professionals.
 
10:00 AM–4:00 PM
Ohio Red Barn Pop-Up Market Market / Local Goods
Ohio Red Barn (50 S. First St., Miamisburg, OH 45342) • Free entry • Shop honey, syrups, soaps, and other local favorites.
 
11:00 AM–2:00 PM
Nyminal Glass Open House & Live Demo Art / Demonstration
Nyminal Glass Studio (1900 E. 2nd St., Dayton, OH 45403) • Free • Open house with a live glassmaking demonstration beginning at noon.
 
12:00–3:00 PM
New Year, New Best Friend Adoption Event Family / Pets
Dayton Humane & Co – A Resale Boutique (Centerville) • Free • Meet adoptable dogs and support the Humane Society of Greater Dayton. Applications: hsdayton.org/adopt/adoption-application .
 
10:00 AM & 12:30 PM
Hawthorn Hill Tours — Orville Wright’s Historic Home History / Tour
Carillon Historical Park (1000 Carillon Blvd., Dayton, OH 45409) • Ticketed • Advance prepaid admission required; shuttle access from Carillon Park.
 
7:00–10:00 PM
Live Music Night Live Music
Oregon Express • Free or low cover • Local and regional musicians.

 

Sunday, January 18

 
12:00–4:00 PM
Greater Dayton Home Show Home & Garden
Montgomery County Fairgrounds • Free admission & parking • Second day of the winter home improvement showcase.
 
1:00 PM
Frozen Extravaganza with Paulette’s Princess Parties Family / Kids
The Mall at Fairfield Commons (Beavercreek) • Free • Frozen-themed sing-alongs and interactive fun for kids and families.
2:00 PM
Skinner Pipe Organ Concert Concert
Dayton Art Institute • Included with admission • One-hour classical program.

 

Tuesday, January 20

11:00 AM–12:00 PM
Wellness Workshop: Tackling the Winter Blues Health & Wellness
Springboro Performing Arts Center (115 Wright Station Way) • Free • Practical strategies to boost mood, stay connected, and build resilience. Presented by Premier Health. Info: 937-748-5774.

 

Wednesday, January 21

10:00 AM & 12:30 PM
Hawthorn Hill Tours — Orville Wright’s Historic Home History / Tour
Carillon Historical Park • Ticketed • Advance prepaid admission required.
 
7:00–8:30 PM
Story Slam Dayton Spoken Word
The Brightside • Low-cost entry • Theme-based live storytelling.

 

Thursday, January 22

6:00–9:00 PM
DJ Night & Craft Cocktails Nightlife
Tender Mercy • 21+ • DJs, cocktails, and winter-night vibes.

 

Friday, January 23

7:00–10:00 PM
Live Concert Night Live Music
The Brightside • Ticketed • Touring and regional artists.
 
8:00–11:00 PM
Jazz Night Jazz
Oregon Express • Often free entry • Live jazz.

 

Featured Event

🚐 Dayton & Cincinnati RV Show — This Weekend in Wilmington

Roberts Centre • Jan. 16–18, 2026 • RVs, trailers, motorhomes & more!

This weekend marks the return of the Dayton & Cincinnati RV Show at the Roberts Centre in Wilmington — one of the largest RV showcases in the region featuring hundreds of models, accessories, and outdoor-lifestyle gear. Whether you’re curious about RV life, planning future travels, or looking for great deals on motorhomes and trailers, this indoor event has something for the whole family. 

📅 Event Details

  • Where: Roberts Centre, 123 Gano Rd, Wilmington, OH 45177 
  • When: Friday, Jan. 16 — 12 pm–8 pm; Saturday, Jan. 17 — 10 am–6 pm; Sunday, Jan. 18 — 10 am–4 pm 
  • Admission: About $15 per adult (kids under 16 free). Cash only at the gate; free parking included
  • Extras: Families, dogs, and veterans welcome (with some discounts) 

🏕 What You’ll Find

  • Travel trailers, motorhomes, toy haulers, and Class A, B & C RVs from top brands
  • Dealers and manufacturers showcasing new 2026 models along with bargains on older inventory 
  • Financing options and on-site loan approval for buyers 
  • Family-friendly atmosphere with food offerings and space to explore 

🔥 Why Go

This show is considered one of the *first big RV events of the year* for the Dayton, Cincinnati, and Columbus areas — perfect for anyone interested in RV travel, full-time mobile living, or simply dreaming about future road trips. With a massive indoor space and *hundreds of RVs under one roof*, it’s a comfortable winter outing with plenty to see and explore.

Fun for RV fans, prospective buyers, and curious explorers alike, the Dayton & Cincinnati RV Show is one of the biggest RV gatherings of the year — and it’s happening *this weekend* in Wilmington.

This newsletter sponsored by The Renaissance Men

Veteran-owned Construction Co. focused on rebuilding homes, restoring hope, and reviving community!

The Renaissance Men

813-500-9788

 

Featured Park

🌾 Featured Park: Huffman MetroPark

A unique mix of aviation history, open prairie, and outdoor adventure

Huffman MetroPark is one of the most historically significant and diverse parks in the Dayton area. Known as the birthplace of practical aviation, this park blends wide-open prairie landscapes with wooded trails, river access, and a peaceful, reflective atmosphere that feels far removed from the city.

✈️ Birthplace of Aviation

Huffman MetroPark is home to Huffman Prairie Flying Field, where Wilbur and Orville Wright perfected controlled, powered flight. Today, visitors can walk the same ground where aviation history was made and explore interpretive signs that explain why this site changed the world.

🥾 Trails, Biking & Open Space

  • Multi-use trails: Ideal for walking, jogging, and biking.
  • Mountain biking trails: Popular with local riders looking for varied terrain.
  • Prairie paths: Flat, open walks with big-sky views.
  • Great Miami River access: Scenic spots along the water.

Because of its size and layout, Huffman is great for both short strolls and longer outdoor workouts — without the crowds found at some smaller parks.

🌿 Nature & Wildlife

The park’s restored prairie and wetlands attract birds, butterflies, and native wildlife throughout the year. It’s a favorite for birdwatchers and anyone who enjoys quiet nature observation, especially in the early morning or near sunset.

🧭 Visitor Tips

  • Bring layers — open prairie areas can be windy, especially in cooler months.
  • Mountain bike trails are directional; check signage before riding.
  • Great spot for history lovers, fitness walkers, and cyclists.
  • Pair your visit with nearby aviation sites for a full Dayton experience.
Did You Know? Huffman Prairie is designated a National Historic Landmark for its role in aviation history.
Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall offer mild temperatures and great prairie views, but the park is open year-round.

From aviation history to wide-open trails, Huffman MetroPark is a reminder of why Dayton is known as the Birthplace of Aviation.

Recipe of the Week

🥧 Recipe of the Week: Chicken Pot Pie Skillet

All the comfort • No crust required • Ready in 30 minutes

This chicken pot pie skillet has everything people love about the classic dish — creamy filling, tender chicken, and vegetables — without the time or fuss of making a pie crust. It’s warm, hearty, and perfect for a cold Dayton evening.

Ingredients

  • 2 Tbsp butter
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 Tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup milk (or half-and-half)
  • 2 cups cooked chicken, diced or shredded
  • 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
  • 1/2 tsp dried thyme
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • Optional: 1/4 tsp poultry seasoning

Instructions

  1. Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add onion and cook 3–4 minutes until softened; add garlic and cook 30 seconds.
  3. Stir in flour and cook 1 minute to form a roux.
  4. Slowly whisk in chicken broth and milk until smooth.
  5. Simmer 5–6 minutes, stirring often, until thickened.
  6. Add chicken, vegetables, thyme, salt, pepper, and poultry seasoning.
  7. Simmer another 5 minutes until vegetables are heated through.
  8. Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve hot.
Dayton Tip: Rotisserie chicken makes this recipe extra fast.
Make It Extra Cozy: Serve over biscuits, toast, or mashed potatoes.
Leftovers: Store in the fridge up to 3 days — great for lunch.

Comforting, creamy, and easy — this skillet dinner brings classic pot pie flavor to a busy weeknight.

Home Tips

🏡 Home Tips of the Week: Getting Ready for the Next Season

Smart, overlooked tasks that make spring easier

Winter isn’t quite done yet, but now is the perfect time to start preparing your home for the warmer months ahead. A little attention this week can prevent last-minute stress when spring finally arrives.

🧰 1. Make a “Spring Fix” List Now

Notice a sticky door, cracked caulk, or loose handrail? Write it down now. Small issues are easy to forget by the time spring projects start piling up.

🌬️ 2. Clean Bathroom & Kitchen Exhaust Fans

Dusty exhaust fans don’t move air well, which can lead to moisture and odors. A quick vacuum or wipe improves airflow and indoor air quality.

🪟 3. Inspect Window Screens

Before warm days arrive, check screens for holes or bent frames. Repairs are cheaper and easier now — and you’ll be glad you did once windows start opening.

🚪 4. Lubricate Hinges & Sliding Doors

Cold weather dries things out. A small amount of lubricant on squeaky hinges or sliding door tracks can prevent wear and make daily life smoother.

🌱 5. Check Outdoor Storage & Tools

Peek into sheds, garages, and outdoor storage bins. Make sure tools are dry, batteries are removed from seasonal gear, and nothing has been damaged by moisture.

Dayton Tip: Late winter is a great time to book spring services before schedules fill up.
Time Saver: Most of these tasks take 10–15 minutes each.

A little preparation now makes the shift from winter to spring smoother and less stressful.

💡 Answer to Trivia Question:

 

Huffman Prairie Flying Field is where the Wright brothers perfected practical flight between 1904 and 1905, testing the world’s first fully controllable airplane and laying the foundation for modern aviation just outside Dayton.

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