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"From Plants & Beer to Pop-Ups: Your Guide to Dayton This Week"

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"From Plants & Beer to Pop-Ups: Your Guide to Dayton This Week"

"From Plants & Beer to Pop-Ups: Your Guide to Dayton This Week"
Don't miss out on Dayton events, learn about the featured event and park, plus get a delicious recipe and home tips in this newsletter sponsored by The Renaissance Men!

Alan Vandergrift

Jan 30, 2026

Trivia Question❓

What Dayton-based company pioneered the electric automobile starter and later became a key division of General Motors?

Answer at the bottom of the newsletter

Dayton Events

Dayton, Ohio (and nearby) — Events by Date

📅 January 30 – February 6, 2026
⏰ All times shown in Eastern Time

 

Friday, January 30

7:00 - 10 PM
Join Lucky Star Brewery Cantina for an intimate evening of original music and storytelling as four talented regional singer-songwriters share the stage, taking turns performing songs and revealing the stories behind them. This “in the round” format creates a warm, conversational atmosphere that brings audiences closer to both the music and the artists.
 
7:30 PM
Dayton Philharmonic Orchestra — Winter Concert Orchestra
Schuster Center • Ticketed • Symphonic winter program (confirm exact program on the official listing).
 
8:00–11:00 PM
Jazz Night Live Music
Oregon Express • Free or low cover • Local jazz musicians in an intimate setting.

 

Saturday, January 31

 
9:00 AM–3:00 PM
Arcade Commons (Pop-Ups, Wellness, Art Activations) Market / Wellness / Art
Dayton Arcade (North Arcade) • Free to attend • Local retail pop-ups and artisan goods (9–3), plus activations: Free Yoga in the Rotunda (10–11, limited; register: ArcadeDayton.com), “Message on a Bottle” at Pink Moon Goods (10–3), and interactive installations at The Contemporary Dayton (11 AM–6 PM). Brunch options highlighted on-site (Table 33, Lucho, 6888 Kitchen, The Garden Grille & Bar).
 
11:00 AM–4:00 PM
Plants & Beer (Series Day) Plant Market
Loose Ends Brewing (890 S Main St, Centerville, OH 45458) • No ticket needed • Plant Market (11:00–2:30), Plant Bingo (3:00–4:00, free to play), plus rare plant raffle and full food/beer/cocktail menu.
 
10:00 AM–4:00 PM
Second Street Market (Winter Hours) Market
Downtown Dayton • Free • Indoor market with food vendors, local products, and artisans.
 
11:30 AM–12:30 PM
Saturday Community Tour Museum Tour
Dayton Art Institute • Free with admission • Guided tour of the permanent collection.
 
7:00–10:00 PM
Live Concert Night Live Music
The Brightside • Ticketed • Touring or regional bands (check lineup for details).

 

Sunday, February 1

8:00 AM
 Mojo Running Club Run — Germantown MetroPark (hills & views) Outdoors / Fitness
Germantown MetroPark • Distances: ~7–9 miles available, with shorter loops starting at 1.9 miles. Meet/park at the Welcome Center lot (6910 Boomershine Rd., Germantown, OH 45327). Park map: Germantown Park Map (PDF) .
 
12:00–3:00 PM
Shop Small Sunday: Local Makers Pop-Up Makers Market
Eudora Brewing Company (3022 Wilmington Pike, Kettering, OH 45429) • Free to attend • Local makers + handmade goods with “cozy brewery vibes.” First 10 shoppers get a swag bag; giveaway entries available for attendees.
 
12:00–4:00 PM
Dayton Art Institute Open Galleries Museum
Dayton Art Institute • Free for members; admission for non-members.
 
2:00 PM
Skinner Pipe Organ Concert Concert
Dayton Art Institute • Included with admission • Sunday concert (confirm details on the event listing).

 

Monday, February 2

 
9:00 AM
 
Registration for the University of Dayton Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (UDOLLI) is open to adults age 50+ and offers short, non-credit courses with no exams or homework. Membership is required, and early registration is recommended as classes often fill quickly.
 
6:30–8:00 PM
Community Book Club or Author Talk Literary
Dayton Metro Library (various branches) • Free • Evening discussion or author program (check branch calendar for specifics).
 
7:30 PM
Groundhog Day (Special Screening) Film
THE NEON (130 E 5th St, Dayton, OH 45402) • $10 • Celebrate Groundhog Day on Groundhog Day with a 7:30 PM screening.

 

Tuesday, February 3

 
7:00–9:00 PM
Broadway or Touring Performance Theatre
Dayton Live venues • Ticketed • Touring Broadway or national production (see official calendar for the specific show).

Wednesday, February 4

 
7:00–8:30 PM
Story Slam Dayton Spoken Word
The Brightside • Low-cost entry • Theme-based live storytelling (confirm theme on the event page).

 

Thursday, February 5

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

Friday, February 6

7:00–10:00 PM
Weekend Concert Kickoff Live Music
The Brightside • Ticketed • Start the weekend with live music or a themed dance night.
8:00–11:00 PM
Jazz & Blues Night Jazz
Oregon Express • Free or low cover • Rotating jazz and blues performers.

 

 

Featured Event

🎭 Les Misérables at the Schuster Center

A Broadway classic returns to downtown Dayton

Les Misérables, one of the most celebrated musicals of all time, is coming to the Schuster Center for a limited engagement. Based on Victor Hugo’s epic novel, this powerful production tells a sweeping story of hope, love, sacrifice, and redemption set against the backdrop of 19th-century France.

With unforgettable songs like “I Dreamed a Dream,” “On My Own,” “Bring Him Home,” and “One Day More,” Les Misérables has captivated audiences around the world for decades. Whether you’re a longtime fan or seeing it for the first time, this production delivers an emotional and visually stunning theatrical experience.

📅 Performance Schedule

  • Multiple evening performances during the week
  • Saturday matinee and evening shows
  • Sunday matinee and evening performances

With a variety of showtimes available, theatergoers have several chances to experience this iconic musical during its Dayton run.

🎟️ Tickets & Planning

Tickets are available through the official box office and authorized ticket sellers. Seating options range from orchestra to balcony, making it easy to find a great view for any budget. Early booking is recommended, as performances are expected to sell quickly.

📍 About the Venue

The Schuster Center is Dayton’s premier performing arts venue, known for hosting Broadway tours, concerts, and special events. Located in the heart of downtown, it offers excellent acoustics, comfortable seating, and a beautiful setting for an evening out.

Les Misérables is a must-see cultural event for theater lovers across the Miami Valley.

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: Bill Yeck Park

A peaceful mix of woods, water, and winding trails

Bill Yeck Park is one of Centerville’s most loved natural spaces, offering a quiet escape with wooded hillsides, open meadows, and a scenic pond. It’s a great park for reflective walks, light hiking, and enjoying nature without the crowds found at some larger parks.

🥾 Trails for Every Pace

The park features a network of trails ranging from easy, flat paths to more rugged woodland routes. In winter, the quieter atmosphere and snow-dusted scenery make it especially peaceful.

  • Gentle walking paths for casual strolls
  • Wooded trails with mild elevation changes
  • Connections to nearby neighborhoods
  • Great spot for birdwatching

🌿 Nature & Wildlife

Bill Yeck Park is home to a variety of birds and wildlife throughout the year. The pond area is a favorite stopping point, and winter months offer clearer views through the trees.

❄️ Winter Visit Tips

  • Wear waterproof shoes for snowy or muddy sections.
  • Stick to well-traveled paths after heavy snowfall.
  • Bring binoculars for winter birdwatching.
  • Perfect for shorter, relaxing outdoor breaks.
Local Favorite: Many locals consider Bill Yeck one of the most peaceful parks in the area.
Best For: Quiet walks, nature watching, and unwinding close to home.

If you’re looking for a calm, scenic park to enjoy even in colder weather, Bill Yeck Park is a wonderful choice this week.

Recipe of the Week

🥣 Recipe of the Week: Creamy White Chicken Chili

Warm, comforting, and perfect for a snowy Dayton weekend

This creamy white chicken chili is rich, cozy, and packed with flavor without being overly spicy. It’s an easy, comforting dinner that’s perfect when winter weather keeps everyone indoors.

Ingredients

  • 1 Tbsp olive oil
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/2 tsp chili powder
  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano
  • 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded
  • 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans, drained and rinsed
  • 3 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup corn (frozen or canned)
  • 4 oz cream cheese, cubed
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
  2. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3–4 minutes.
  3. Add garlic, cumin, chili powder, and oregano; cook 30 seconds.
  4. Stir in chicken, beans, broth, and corn.
  5. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 15–20 minutes.
  6. Reduce heat to low and stir in cream cheese until melted.
  7. Add heavy cream, season with salt and pepper, and simmer 5 minutes.
  8. Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
Dayton Tip: Rotisserie chicken makes this recipe fast and easy.
Make It Spicy: Add diced green chilies or a pinch of cayenne.
Serve With: Cornbread, tortilla strips, or a simple side salad.

Creamy, hearty, and comforting — this white chicken chili is perfect for snow days and cold nights.

Home Tips

🏠 Home Tips of the Week: What to Do After Heavy Snow

Simple steps to protect your home once the storm passes

After a major snowfall, a few quick checks around your home can help prevent damage, improve safety, and make cleanup easier as temperatures fluctuate.

❄️ 1. Clear Snow Away from the Foundation

Piled-up snow can melt and seep into basements or crawl spaces. Shovel snow at least a foot away from your home’s foundation when possible.

🧊 2. Watch for Ice on Walkways

Snow that melts during the day often refreezes overnight. Reapply ice melt in the evenings and check shaded areas where ice lingers longer.

🏡 3. Check Roof Edges & Gutters

Look for icicles or ice buildup along rooflines. These can signal ice dams, which may lead to leaks as snow melts.

🚪 4. Open Doors & Windows Carefully

Heavy snow and ice can cause doors to swell or freeze shut. Avoid forcing them open, which can damage frames or seals.

🚗 5. Check Outdoor Items

Snow can hide fallen branches or damage to outdoor furniture, mailboxes, and vehicles. A quick walk-around helps catch issues early.

Dayton Tip: Freeze-thaw cycles cause more damage than snow itself — stay alert as temperatures rise.
Safety Reminder: Take breaks while shoveling and lift with your legs, not your back.

A little attention after the storm can help avoid winter headaches later.

💡 Answer to Trivia Question:

The Dayton Engineering Laboratories Company (DELCO), founded in 1909 by Charles F. Kettering and Edward Deeds, revolutionized the automobile industry by inventing the electric starter, an innovation that helped make cars safer and easier to use and later became a cornerstone of General Motors.

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