"Dayton's Hottest Events & Festivals: Delicious Recipes ,Featured Park & Home Tips!"

Trivia Question❓

Which Dayton-based inventor created the cash register in 1879?

Answer at the bottom of the newsletter

Dayton Events

Dayton, Ohio • Events

Sept 26 – Oct 2, 2025 • All times local (America/New_York)

Friday, Sept 26, 2025

9:00 AM

Mayor Mims’ Teen Youth Summit

Free

Family/YouthCivic

Sinclair Community College Conference Center (Downtown)

Youth leadership & civic-engagement summit with speakers and workshops for teens.

10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

“Beyond Guilt” Exhibit

Museum admission

Arts & Culture

International Peace Museum (10 N. Ludlow St.)

Visual storytelling on over-sentencing and justice reform; rotating panels and media.

11:00 AM – 1:30 PM

Oktoberfest Lederhosen Lunch

Dayton Art Institute (DAI)

Festive kickoff lunch with German fare & beer ahead of DAI’s weekend Oktoberfest.

11:00 AM – 6:00 PM

The Contemporary Dayton: Juried Members’ Exhibition

Free

Visual Art

The Co (25 W. Fourth St.)

Annual juried show featuring regional artists across media.

12:00 PM – 5:00 PM

School of the DAI Retrospective

Free

Exhibit

Dayton Society of Artists (48 High St.)

Historic look at artists and works tied to the Dayton Art Institute’s legacy.

5:00 PM

Talk: Dr. Crystal Uchino

Museum admission

International Peace Museum

A critical look at conflict and memory spanning Hiroshima, Vietnam, Gaza and more.

5:30 PM – 7:00 PM

Guided Downtown Historic Walking Tour

Meet at Dayton Arcade

Docent-led stroll covering landmark architecture and local stories.

8:00 PM – 11:00 PM

Live Music: The Ginger Tonics

Cover/$$

Live Music

Whisperz Speakeasy (West Carrollton)

High-energy set from local favorites in an intimate speakeasy setting.

8:00 PM

Magic Mike Night (Queen City Hunks)

Ticketed • 21+

Performance

Yellow Cab Tavern

Touring dance revue for adults; limited seating.

Saturday, Sept 27, 2025

All Day

DAI Oktoberfest

Ticketed

FestivalFood & DrinkFamily

Dayton Art Institute (Museum grounds)

Signature Dayton festival with German beer, food, artisan market, and live music on multiple stages.

7:00 PM

Revisiting Creedence (Tribute)

Ticketed

Concert

Arbogast Performing Arts Center (Troy)

A faithful tribute to Creedence Clearwater Revival’s classic hits.

8:00 PM – 11:00 PM

Mike Wade & The Mighty Groovers

Cover/$$

Live MusicJazz/Funk

Whisperz Speakeasy

Cincinnati trumpeter Mike Wade brings groove-heavy jazz to the South Dayton stage.

Sunday, Sept 28, 2025

All Day

DAI Oktoberfest (Final Day)

Ticketed

FestivalFamily

Dayton Art Institute

Wrap-up day with vendor market, kids’ activities, and afternoon music; happy-hour specials 4–6 PM.

Afternoon

Backyard Jamboree: Joe Mullins & the Radio Ramblers

Free

BluegrassOutdoors

Caesar Ford Park (Xenia)

Grammy-nominated bluegrass band in a park setting—bring chairs/blankets.

5:30 PM – 9:30 PM

Sunday Funday Open Mic

Free

Open Mic

Moe Harrigan’s Tavern (Kettering)

Weekly open mic welcoming local singers, players, and listeners.

Monday, Sept 29, 2025

7:00 PM

Open Jam with Nathan Jenkins

Free

Open Jam

The Barrel (Springboro)

Bring your instrument or sit back with a pint—community music night.

Tuesday, Sept 30, 2025

8:00 PM – 11:00 PM

Open Mic Night

Free

Open Mic

Peach’s Grill (Yellow Springs)

Long-running open mic in the heart of Yellow Springs’ music scene.

Wednesday, Oct 1, 2025

6:00 PM – 9:00 PM

Danny Voris (Classical Guitar)

Cover/$$

Live Music

Whisperz Speakeasy

Fingerstyle and classical selections in a relaxed midweek set.

6:00 PM – 10:00 PM

Open Mic Night

Free

Open Mic

Lucky Star Brewery (Miamisburg)

Rotating local hosts; all styles welcome. House brews on tap.

9:00 PM

Open Mic Night

Free

Open Mic

Leaf & Vine (Troy)

Late-night open mic in Troy’s downtown cigar & wine lounge.

Thursday, Oct 2, 2025

6:30 PM – 10:00 PM

Open Mic Night

Free

Open Mic

The Common Beer Company (Mason)

Singer-songwriters and bands rotate through a friendly suburban taproom stage.

Featured Event

Community Event

❤️ Stepping Forward: Dayton Heart Walk Returns This Weekend

Saturday, September 27, 2025 • Day Air Ballpark, 220 N Patterson Blvd, Dayton, OH

Dayton’s annual Heart Walk is back this Saturday — and the community is lacing up to make a difference. Organized by the American Heart Association, the event raises awareness for heart disease and stroke, honors survivors, and gives everyone the tools to help save a life.

Schedule: Check-in & activities start 8:00 a.m.; the walk begins 10:00 a.m.
Cost: Free to attend; fundraising and donations encouraged.
Highlights: Hands-Only CPR demos, survivor celebrations, family-friendly activities and music.
Goal: Community fundraising toward life-saving research and local heart-health programs.

Last year’s walk drew hundreds of participants, and organizers expect even more this weekend. Corporate teams, families, and friends will take the field together — many walking in honor of loved ones or celebrating their own recovery.

Pro Tip: Parking is easiest in nearby downtown garages; arrive early for check-in and photo ops on the field.

Bring: Comfortable shoes, a water bottle, and a sign or ribbon if you’re walking in honor of someone.

Featured Festival

🎨🍺 Oktoberfest Returns to the Dayton Art Institute

September 26–28, 2025 • 456 Belmonte Park North, Dayton, OH • Rain or shine

One of Dayton’s most beloved fall traditions is back. The Dayton Art Institute’s Oktoberfest fills the museum grounds with food, music, and community spirit over three festive days. Friday kicks off with the Lederhosen Lunch (11:00 a.m.–1:30 p.m.) and an evening Preview Party (7:00–11:00 p.m.). The main festival runs Saturday 12:00–11:00 p.m. and Sunday 12:00–7:00 p.m.

A Feast for All Senses

Expect German favorites—brats, pretzels, schnitzel—alongside local and international beers, wine, and cocktails. Nearly 50 artisans showcase handcrafted goods, and multiple stages keep the vibes lively with bands and traditional tunes.

Family & Fun

FamilyFest (Sat & Sun, 12:00–5:00 p.m.) offers free art activities for kids. Feeling competitive? This year features a U.S. Steinholding Association qualifying competition—hold a liter stein at arm’s length, last one standing wins.

Tickets & Admission

Advance (Sat/Sun): $12 adults • $8 seniors (60+) & youth (7–18)
Gate: $15 adults • $10 seniors & youth • Ages 6 & under free
Weekend Pass: $20 advance • $25 gate

21+ must show ID. No large bags; service animals only. Event runs rain or shine.

Why It Matters

Oktoberfest is the museum’s largest annual fundraiser, supporting exhibitions, education, and outreach all year long. Your ticket helps keep the arts thriving in Dayton.

Insider Tips

Use free shuttles from the UD U1 lot or downtown RTA hubs.
Arrive early—evenings get busy.
Check the forecast and dress for the weather.

Event Details

Buy Tickets Parking & Shuttles

Details may change—check the official site before you go.

Featured Park

Island MetroPark: Gayle B. Price Jr. Bridge

Dayton, Ohio Five Rivers MetroParks Parks & Outdoors

Island MetroPark: A Riverside Gem in Dayton

A beloved river-island park offering history, trails, paddling access, family amenities, and scenic views just minutes from downtown.

A Park with History

Island MetroPark’s story stretches back more than a century. Recommended in early plans for Dayton’s park system, the park was rebuilt after the 1913 flood and today sits where the Great Miami and Stillwater Rivers meet. A standout feature is the WPA-era, Art Deco band shell (Leslie L. Diehl Band Shell), which has hosted generations of concerts and community gatherings. The park is also home to local rowing and a favorite spot for birdwatchers along the riverbanks.

Natural Setting & Design

True to its name, the park occupies a scenic island with panoramic water views. Depending on the source, it spans roughly 33–43 acres—ample space to explore while remaining easy to navigate. The striking red Gayle B. Price Jr. Pedestrian Bridge links Island MetroPark to Triangle Park and connects visitors to Dayton’s broader paved trail network along the Great Miami Riverway.

Features & Amenities

Paved Trails: Ideal for walking, running, or biking with riverfront scenery.
River Access: Launch points for kayaking and canoeing on the Great Miami and Stillwater Rivers.
Playground & Water Play: Family-friendly areas for kids to climb, slide, and cool off in warm weather.
Picnic Shelters: Tables, grills, and shaded spots perfect for small gatherings.
Historic Band Shell: A centerpiece for concerts, festivals, and cultural events.
Accessibility: Wheelchair-friendly routes throughout much of the park.
Dog-Friendly: Leashed pets are welcome.
Facilities: Restrooms, drinking water, and convenient parking.

Tips for Visitors

As a riverside park, sections can occasionally be affected by high water—check local conditions after heavy rain.
Arrive early for major events; parking can fill quickly during concerts and festivals.
In warmer months, bring insect repellent for dusk walks along the water.
Consider combining your visit with a bike ride across the pedestrian bridge into the regional trail system.

Why Visit?

Whether you’re after a peaceful stroll, a family picnic, an afternoon paddle, or a community concert, Island MetroPark blends Dayton’s history with modern outdoor recreation in a uniquely scenic setting. It’s a go-to gathering place for locals and an easy way for visitors to experience Dayton’s riverfront charm—right on an island in the heart of the city.

Recipe of the Week

🍂 Recipe of the Week: Pumpkin Spice Muffins

Celebrate the cozy flavors of fall with these moist and spiced pumpkin muffins—perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a warm Dayton evening treat.

Ingredients

1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
1 cup canned pumpkin puree
¾ cup sugar (white or brown, or a mix)
½ cup vegetable oil (or melted butter)
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tsp baking soda
½ tsp baking powder
½ tsp salt
1 ½ tsp ground cinnamon
½ tsp ground nutmeg
¼ tsp ground cloves
¼ tsp ground ginger
Optional: ½ cup chopped pecans or chocolate chips

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease.
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and spices.
In another bowl, mix pumpkin puree, sugar, oil, eggs, and vanilla until smooth.
Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry mixture until just combined. Do not overmix.
Stir in pecans or chocolate chips if using.
Divide batter evenly into muffin cups, filling each about ¾ full.
Bake for 20–22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.

Serving Tip: Top with a simple cream cheese frosting or a dusting of powdered sugar for extra indulgence.

🍺 Local Breweries with Oktoberfest Specials

Warped Wing Brewing Co.

Seasonal pick: Flyer Red Lager with malty fall notes.

Eudora Brewing Co.

Classic Oktoberfest Märzen, on tap and to-go.

Toxic Brew Company

Cozy fall stout with subtle cinnamon & nutmeg.

Home Tips

Home & Yard- Preparing for Fall

Check Your Gutters & Downspouts: Clear leaves now to prevent water damage when autumn rains hit.

Seal Windows & Doors: A little weatherstripping goes a long way toward lowering your heating bill. Furnace Tune-Up: Dayton’s cool nights will be here soon. Schedule a checkup before the first cold snap.

Rake Smart: Rake leaves into compost piles or bag them per waste pickup schedule.

💡 Answer to Trivia Question:

James Ritty - a Dayton saloon owner, invented the first mechanical cash register in 1879 to stop employee theft, earning him the nickname “Father of the Cash Register.”