Things to do in Dayton | Restaurants, Theatre, Music and More
SEASON’S GREETINGS: A HOLIDAY CABARET is back for its fifth season! Performers Gina Handy and Philip Drennen, along with Deron Bell and his Merry Melody Makers, have created an unforgettable cabaret experience to celebrate the holidays. Relax with friends, laugh with family, grab a seasonal cocktail, and most importantly, “mail” your song requests to Santa! You never know what surprises are in store when the spirit of the holidays takes over!
Tickets
Families in the Miami Valley will step straight into the magic of the North Pole this season as Santa’s Wonderland Nights opens its doors December 12 at 5679 Webster Street in Dayton, Ohio. The brand-new indoor Christmas experience transforms a warehouse into Santa’s Kringleworks— a hidden “North Pole District” where Christmas magic is imagined, built, tested, and shipped around the world.
Designed as a fully themed night out rather than a quick walk-through, Santa’s Wonderland Nights offers guests approximately 2.5 hours of interactive holiday fun. Every ticket includes a seated holiday dinner, access to nine immersive rooms filled with 16 different activities and games, and a meet-and-greet with Santa complete with photo opportunities.
“Parents are always looking for something that feels bigger than a light walk or a quick mall visit,” said the event’s creators at A & L Entertainment Immersive. “Santa’s Wonderland Nights is designed as an evening you sink into — you sit down for dinner together, you explore room by room, you play, build, discover, and actually make memories side by side.”
The Elf Toy Co
Inside Santa’s Kringleworks:
Guests begin their evening in the Celestial Hall, where they enjoy a festive dinner and a round of holiday trivia before being released into the Kringleworks to explore. From there, they move at their own pace through nine handcrafted rooms, each built as a different corner of the North Pole District, including:
The Post Office & Starlight Mailroom
Across these rooms, families can take on 16 different activities, games, and challenges, ranging from logic puzzles and scavenger hunts to sensory guessing games and creative stations. The event is strictly limited to 100 guests per night, keeping lines short and allowing families to linger in each space.
Dinner, Dessert & More Included
Dinner in the Celestial Hall
Unlike many ticketed holiday attractions that charge extra for food or photos, one ticket at Santa’s Wonderland Nights includes the entire evening:
Tickets are available only on select nights from December 12 through January 4.
Peppermint Power Plant
From the Creators of Blackwood Manor Halloween Bash
Santa’s Wonderland Nights is produced by A & L Entertainment Immersive, the same team behind Dayton’s Blackwood Manor Halloween Bash, a sold-out immersive Halloween event that drew strong word-of-mouth and enthusiastic reviews from families earlier this year.
“After Blackwood Manor, so many families asked us if we could do something just as special for Christmas,” the creators added. “Santa’s Wonderland Nights is our answer to that — a holiday world that feels big, detailed, and handcrafted, but still cozy enough that your kids feel like they’re really part of the story.”
Event Details
For more information and to reserve tickets, visit SantasFunNight.com.
The magic returns with this annual three-day event in the Arcade’s event spaces which will feature holiday shopping live entertainment, family-friendly activities and performances, a cash bar, and holiday surprises. Wed, Dec 10 – Fri, Dec 12th 3- 8pm
There are 3 event entrances on different streets – 35 W. Fourth Street, 31 S. Main Street, and 24 W. Third Street.
Local makers and artisans selling handmade gifts, décor, jewelry, ceramics, wearables, treats, and more
Live music and performances that fill the event spaces with cheer
Dining at food trucks:
A food and monetary donation drive for Miami Valley Meals
Visit our neighbors at DENEAU TOWER , 40 W. Fourth St. for an espresso martini bar, letters to Santa, and live music!
As part of LongHorn’s commitment to grilling every steak perfectly, every restaurant has a team of passionate Grill Masters specially trained in the art of grilling. They are experts at grilling fresh, never frozen steak, seasoning with one of the restaurant’s proprietary spice blends and grilling to each guest’s preferred steak temperature. Only the best become LongHorn’s Grill Masters.
Grill Master Legend Eric Morgan serves as an integral part of the team at the Beavercreek location and is known for his leadership, heart and craftsmanship. His team describes him as being reliable, dedicated and respected as Morgan consistently takes pride in ensuring he delivers outstanding food that is expertly grilled, every time. After serving as a Grill Master in the Dayton community for over two decades – Morgan has grilled over one million perfectly cooked steaks throughout his career – making him a true master of his craft.
To celebrate the achievement, Morgan was surprised by his local restaurant team, family and restaurant-wide leaders with a special event officially recognizing him as a Grill Master Legend. He was honored with a special gold chef coat, a $5,000 award and $1,000 annually for as long as he remains employed with LongHorn, and a visit from LongHorn Steakhouse president Laura Williamson.
LongHorn Steakhouse’s culture is rooted in the incredible people that work in its restaurants, and this award is part of ongoing efforts to recognize extraordinary individuals for hard work and dedication to steak. For more information on LongHorn Steakhouse, visitwww.LongHornSteakhouse.com.
Goo Goo Dolls will take their lauded live show back on the road in 2026 with an extensive run of U.S. tour dates with Neon Trees. The summer tour includes a performance in Huber Heights, OH atRose Music Center on August 12, 2026.
Last week, the band released the full performance audio from their transcendent live set at California’s Stagecoach Music Festival. LISTEN TO THEIR LIVE AT STAGECOACH (CALIFORNIA’S COUNTRY MUSIC FESTIVAL) PERFORMANCE HERE.
Additionally, their striking Tiny Desk performance with NPR Music is out now. The four song set features performances of their global hit “Iris,” 3x Platinum track “Slide,“ “Feel The Silence” and “Not Goodbye (Close My Eyes),” which appears on their new Summer Anthem EP. In conjunction, “Iris” hit #9 on Spotify’s U.S. Daily Top Songs Chart and peaked at #9 on Spotify’s Global Daily Chart, marking yet another chart position peak for the iconic track nearly 30 years after release. WATCH/SHARE THE TINY DESK PERFORMANCE HERE.
Tickets will go on sale to the public beginning at 10AM on Friday, December 12 at Ticketmaster.com and the Rose Music Center Box Office.
On the heels of going viral on TikTok, “Iris” is now Certified Diamond and accumulated over 5 billion streams to date worldwide, amassing over a billion streams in 2025 alone. The 4x GRAMMY-nominated track continues to reach new audiences around the world and has been covered by the likes of Taylor Swift, Machine Gun Kelly, Phoebe Bridgers and Maggie Rogers, yet again proving the timelessness and staying power of Goo Goo Dolls’ illustrious catalog.
Formed by John Rzeznik and Robby Takac in Buffalo, NY during 1986, Goo Goo Dolls have quietly broken records, contributed a string of staples to the American songbook, connected to millions of fans and indelibly impacted popular music for three-plus decades. Beyond selling 15 million records worldwide, the group has garnered 4x GRAMMY-nominations and nearly a dozen platinum and gold singles combined and seized a page in the history books by achieving 15 #1 and Top 10 hits. As a result, they hold the all-time radio record for “Most Top 10 Singles.”
Thus far, A Boy Named Goo (1995) has gone 2x Certified Platinum, Dizzy Up The Girl (1998) 5x Certified Platinum and Gutterflower (2002) and Let Love In(2006) are both Certified Gold. In addition, Something for the Rest of Us(2010) and Magnetic (2013) bowed in the Top 10 of the Billboard Top 200. In addition, the band’s Summer Anthem EP is out now via Warner Records. Consisting of 7 tracks, Summer Anthem is a precise, hard-hitting project, featuring the type of vivid lyricism that’s led the band to becoming one of the most influential alternative rock groups of all time.
Calling all Swifties! Get ready to dance through the Eras as The Taylor Party brings a Taylor Swift-inspired dance celebration to The Brightside Music & Event Venue on Friday, December 19th.
This enchanting evening promises a journey through all of Taylor Swift’s iconic Eras, from her country beginnings to her latest chart-topping hits. Whether you’re Team “Fearless,” “1989,” “folklore,” or riding the “Eras Tour” wave, this party is designed for fans to celebrate the music that’s become the soundtrack to their lives.
The Taylor Party isn’t just a concert—it’s an immersive experience where attendees are encouraged to dress up in their favorite Era-inspired outfits. Channel your inner “Reputation” era with sequins and attitude, go full “Lover” with pastels and butterflies, or embrace the cottagecore vibes of “folklore” and “evermore.” The fashion possibilities are as endless as Taylor’s catalog.
Doors open at 8 PM, with the dance party kicking off at 9 PM and running until midnight. DJs will be spinning Swift’s biggest hits all night long, giving fans plenty of time to sing along to every word and create unforgettable moments with fellow Swifties.
Event DetailsWhen: Friday, December 19, 2025
Doors: 8 PM
Show: 9 PM – 12 AM
Where: The Brightside Music & Event Venue, 905 E 3rd St, Dayton
Tickets: $20 in advance / $25 day of show
Age: 18+
Advance tickets are available now for $20, with day-of-show tickets priced at $25. Given the massive popularity of all things Taylor Swift right now, early ticket purchase is recommended to secure your spot at what’s sure to be one of the hottest dance parties of the holiday season.
The event is open to ages 18 and up, making it the perfect pre-holiday celebration for college students home for winter break and young professionals looking to end 2025 on a high note.
Located at 905 E 3rd St in downtown Dayton, The Brightside Music & Event Venue has become a go-to destination for unique entertainment experiences in the Miami Valley. The venue’s intimate atmosphere makes it ideal for themed dance parties where everyone can feel part of the celebration.
So grab your besties, pick your Era, and get ready to make some magic. As Taylor herself would say, “Long live all the magic we made!”
For tickets and more information, visit The Brightside’s website or social media channels. Don’t miss your chance to be part of The Taylor Party—after all, it’s been a long time coming, and we’re ready for it.
Are you attending The Taylor Party? Tag us in your Era-inspired outfit photos and use #TaylorPartyDayton to connect with other local Swifties!
Just because it is cold outside, does not mean you have to stay indoors. Join the MetroParks Recreation Team this winter for a guided hiking experience on the beautiful trails. This is a great opportunity to learn about winter trails, meet other hikers, stay active and get outside. Please be prepared with multiple layers and water. Weather Dependent.
Learn about winter hiking, meet other hikers, stay active and start the new year by getting outside.
Registration required
The Foundry’s rooftop igloos are back, complete with glowing firelight, chef-driven dishes, and smoked whiskeys, classic cocktails, and local brews delivered to melt the chill. Looking out at Day Air Park’s Deck the Diamonds adds a bright view to the rooftop dining.
Gather up to 6 of your favorite people and settle in with blankets, heaters, and all the warm vibes (plus our full food & beverage menu, of course). Perfect for everything from date nights to squad hangs to family celebrations, it’s your own private snow globe, minus the snow. $100 deposit is credited to your final bill at the end of your experience. (Monday-Thursday) $125 deposit is credited to your final bill at the end of your experience. (Friday & Saturday) Reservations require a $300 spending minimum Monday–Thursday (before tax and 22% gratuity) for a 2-hour time frame. Reservations require $300 spending minimum Friday-Saturday (before tax and 22% gratuity) for a 2-hour time frame.
Reservations – If you are a party of two, there is a minimum of $75/person to reserve the igloos. In case of inclement weather, we’ll move your reservation indoors if available or help you reschedule.
PLEASE NOTE: Cancellation requests must go through [email protected] If you cancel more than two days in advance, your deposit will be refunded; cancellations within two days will forfeit the deposit. All Reservations for the igloos- please visit open table – Foundry Dining Experience The Following will be black out dates for the igloos: December 7th, December 11th, December 31st, February 13th & February 14th
The Foundry
On Saturday, December 6, and Sunday, December 7, 2025, the Dayton Art Institute (DAI) will welcome art lovers of all backgrounds to the museum, free of charge, for a special Art For All weekend.
Art for All reinforces the Dayton Art Institute’s commitment to accessibility by offering free general admission to all visitors. Guests can explore the collection galleries, as well as the current Special and Focus Exhibitions. This initiative is made possible with the generosity and vision of our dedicated sponsors: Presenting Sponsors Kate and Steve Hone; Sustaining Sponsors Ramona and Todd Vikan; and Director Level Sponsors Karen and Eric Spina.
The museum is open from 11 AM to 5 PM on Saturdays and noon to 5 PM on Sundays. Art for All weekend features two full days of festive programming for visitors of all ages. Guests can enjoy performances, hands-on artmaking, tours and family-friendly activities during their visit. Saturday highlights include a Holiday Concert by the Dayton Bach Society (12–12:30 PM), an artist talk with Sarah Richard (12:45 PM), rotating gallery tours and all-day experiences such as an Art Nouveau artmaking activity, a winter photo booth and a family scavenger hunt. Sunday continues the fun with additional gallery tours and all-day creative activities. 
In the spirit of the season, the DAI encourages all attendees who are able to bring a dry-good donation to support the Dayton Food Bank as we come together to celebrate art, community and generosity.
The Art for All dates were carefully selected to coincide with the major highlights in the DAI’s exhibition schedule, giving guests a chance to see all three of the DAI’s Special Exhibitions, including the current exhibition, The Triumph of Nature: Art Nouveau from the Chrysler Museum of Art (on view October 18, 2025–January 11, 2026).
Additional Exhibitions at the museum include Strange Worlds: Photographs by Jay Hoops (October 4, 2025–January 4, 2026), Captivating Clay: Contemporary Japanese Ceramics from the Horvitz Collection (April 13, 2024–January 3, 2027),Themes in Yoshitoshi’s 100 Aspects of the Moon: Love & Longing (October 25–January 25, 2026) and Engaged: Rings from around the World (November 8, 2025–April 19, 2026).
For more information about planning a visit, including current museum hours and updates, go to www.daytonartinstitute.org/visit or call 937-223-4ART (4278). Connect with the Dayton Art Institute on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube for additional information, behind-the-scenes photos and videos, and exclusive offers.
Pizza Hut is getting into the holiday spirit with a cozy new collaboration.
The chain has brought back its popular Triple Treat Box, which contains two medium one-topping pizzas, five breadsticks, and a choice of dessert, all served in a newly designed festive holiday box.
The box serves as inspiration for the new Triple Treat Box onesie, an all-in-one garment featuring the same designs. Launched in time for National Ugly Sweater Day on Dec. 19, the red, white and green graphic onesie was created in partnership with holiday clothing maker Tipsy Elves. It is available for $89.95 in both men’s and women’s sizes here, while supplies last.
The Triple Treat Box is available for a limited time and is supported by an ad campaign starring quarterback Josh Allen. Allen reminds fans to “go hard” for the holidays, while wearing a pizza-themed Christmas sweater (which is also available from Tipsy Elves).
Another campaign spot depicts the chaos that ensues when a holiday guest brings a real live reindeer to Christmas dinner.
Calling all Peanuts fans! Come out and join us as we bring the magic of Charlie Brown to the MetroParks Ice Rink! Enjoy the jazzy, holiday themed music while you skate, then play some games in the comfort tent that will make you feel like you’re part of the gang.
Skaters are welcome to relax in one of several warming areas, including a heated comfort tent containing games and seating. The RiverScape Café will also be open, offering a variety of food and drinks (including our delicious hot cocoa!) for purchase. For those 21 and over, a variety of alcoholic beverages will be available for purchase as part of the Downtown Dayton DORA.
Admission is $7, Skate Rental is $3, and there are a limited number of skate helpers available for free. Thanks to our Access to Nature financial assistance program, residents who receive SNAP/EBT can simply show their card at the time of purchase to receive 75% off Admission and Skate Rental
Dr. Seuss’s The Grinch has successfully slipped into the Golden Arches and on Dec. 2, he’s unleashing The Grinch Meal. The meal, made in partnership with Dr. Seuss Enterprises and McDonald’s, will be available at participating rest
aurants nationwide for a limited time, while supplies last. His diabolical culinary debut features Dill Pickle “Grinch Salt” McShaker Fries, arriving for the first time in the U.S.
Sprinkle the tangy, dill pickle seasoning into the McShaker bag and shake for a bold twist on our World Famous Fries® that will make your taste buds pucker with delight. Pair them with your choice of a Big Mac® or 10-piece Chicken McNuggets® and a medium drink for the ultimate treat for yourself during holiday fuss and muss.
The Grinch is also sneaking a piece of mischief into every meal: a pair of spirited socks, scribbled with messages from the Grinch himself to let everyone know exactly how he feels this holiday season. The socks come in four unhinged colors and can even be used as an impromptu stocking, just like Mt. Crumpit’s finest.
“THiS iS MY MEAL AND i DiDN’T PARTNER WiTH McDONALD’S OUT OF THE GOODNESS OF MY HEART,” said The Grinch in a handwritten note on crumpled paper from Mt. Crumpit. “i SAW AN OPPORTUNiTY TO BRiNG MiSCHiEF TO YOUR BELOVED “RESTAURANT” WiTH MY DELiCiOUS CHAOS FOR THE HOLiDAYS AND i TOOK iT. SO GO AHEAD, GRAB MY MEAL STARTING DEC. 2 – YOU’RE WELCOME FOR MAKiNG YOUR HOLiDAYS iNFiNiTELY MORE iNTERESTiNG.”
What is the best-selling book genre in the world?
Romance novels generate billions of dollars of revenue annually. The romance genre continues to grow in appeal as writers genre-blend, branching into mystery, history, and fantasy, combining emotional depth, relationships, and niche subject popularity—think of Diana J. Gabaldon’s book series, Outlander, which merged multiple genres, featuring elements of historical fiction, romance, mystery, adventure and science fiction/fantasy—which has sold over 50 million books. The Starz network adaptation of the Outlander generated over half a billion dollars in revenue, and the it helped drive the $4.4 billion acquisition of Starz by Lionsgate. Outlander continues to bring in monies through a licensing agreement with Netflix. And Outlander is only one example of how the romance is the genre of market dominance and high profitability.
What genre has been met with “relentless hostility” for decades?
Despite its market profitability, romances still grapple with literary stigma, historically, repeatedly, dismissed as “trashy,” “formulaic,” and finally denigrated into “chic lit.” An internet search of romance genre reveals pages and pages of articles attacking and defending the genre. Recent critiques have pulled away from dismissing the genre as a whole and have focused on deconstructing themes within the genre, decrying “unhealthy preoccupations with coercive sex and dominance,” “lack of representative diversity,” “anti-feminist ideals,” and “unrealistic,” portrayals of men. But still the books sell.
Which genre has the strongest relationship between author/reader?
Women write eighty three percent of romances. Nathanial Hawthorne may have reviled those “scribbling women,” but the publishing industry has come to rely on the relationships that develop between romance authors and readers to drive sales. Romance authors have a direct and interactive audience that consider themselves a community of readers. Over ninety percent of romance readers are women, and these readers fill social reading sited like Goodreads and StoryGraph, fiction apps like Dreame and Wattpad, and drive publisher specific site development like Harlequin online.
Romance is a business, and the business of romance is good.
If you knew the answer to these questions, then, like me, you are going to be excited by what comes next.
Dayton is about to have a bookstore and wine bar dedicated solely to romance. When I heard that, I thought “what a good idea.” When I talked with Lauren Gay and Lindsay Woodruff about the plans for Swoon Books & Wine, I practically swooned myself with excitement. Swoon Books and Wine, coming to 2504 Far Hills Avenue, will be romance made manifest. The space will have a rococo interior, wine, full bar, and treats–both savory and sweet–from local food partners. All the books will be romances.
“We’re creating a space where a community of readers can immerse themselves in a genre they love,” Woodruff says. “It’s all about the ambience,” Gay says, “we are creating a place that will reflect the romantic experience and capture that happy ending feeling.”
Curating a space to embody a feeling is not new to Woodruff and Gay. Woodruff started Maraluna, an artisan home goods store that ensures all products are ethically produced, in Troy almost a decade ago. Since then, she has relocated it to Oakwood, and again to a larger space at 2316 Far Hills Ave. Despite the moves, Maraluna thrives, because Woodruff creates a warm and inviting atmosphere in every location. Lauren Gay also is passionate about curating her spaces to create the right vibes. A CMS certified sommelier and the owner of Joui Wine, at 117 E. Third St. in the Fire Blocks district, Gay’s passion for curating is evident. At Joui, the focus is not only on selecting just the right wine for her guests, but also about crafting the wine experience.
With this track record of success and their shared love of reading, Swoon Books and Wine promises to be a beloved spot to hang out and read. But what I loved about interviewing them is that these women are not only romance readers, but they are also like the women in the books they love: smart, talented, creators of their own destiny. And lucky for Dayton, they are also experienced entrepreneurs, creating the community they want to live in, one storefront at a time.
If you can’t wait to Swoon, you will be excited to hear they now have TWO ways you can join the fun now — eGift Cards, and the brand new Swoon Book Club!
The Swoon Book Club is launching now with three tiered offerings; each tier features a curated monthly book selection plus varying levels of in store credits, vouchers, and exclusive discounts. Swoon will also offer a limited time discounted three month subscription bundle, ideal for holiday gifting. The Swoon Book Club and eGift Cards are both available now on our website — click the links in the comments below!
Swoon Books & Wine
2504 Far Hills Avenue
Oakwood, Ohio 45419
COMING SOON!
The Kettering Backpack Program, founded in 2006, is a 501(c)(3) not-for profit organization with one goal: to fight childhood hunger in 16 elementary/middle schools in Kettering each week. The Kettering Backpack Program discreetly provides at-risk students with a bag of food each Friday throughout the school year. This food helps sustain the students’ nutritional needs over the weekends when school breakfasts and lunches are not available.
Initially serving only 15 students, the program has grown to feed nearly 600 students each week. Helping our children become successful students and future leaders can be accomplished only with the help of our volunteers and community partners.
“It is with great excitement that the Board of Trustees announces the appointment of John Oney as our new President & CEO of Destination Dayton®, effective December 15,” states Board Chair Scott DeBolt. “The board is thrilled to welcome John and confident in his leadership as we move into an exciting new chapter for our organization.”
Oney will succeed outgoing President & CEO Jacquelyn Powell who will retire after over 30 years with the organization. Oney has worked in the hospitality industry for more than three decades, and currently serves as the Vice President, Sports & Meetings for Visit Virginia’s Blue Ridge where he has been responsible for developing group sales strategies that create economic impact in the form of sporting events, meetings, and conventions. Visit Virginia’s Blue Ridge is the region’s official destination marketing organization promoting the counties of Botetourt, Franklin, and Roanoke, as well as the cities of Roanoke and Salem.
The new President & CEO was selected by a special Destination Dayton Board of Directors selection committee led by Board Chair Scott DeBolt. The efforts included a national search with recognized hospitality industry executive recruitment firm SearchWide Global.
“We look forward to partnering with John and the entire team as we continue advancing our mission,” DeBolt said. “Dayton is a premier tourism destination—rooted in a rich history of innovation, shaped by a culturally vibrant quality of life, and poised for an exciting and promising future.”
According to Oney, “Dayton, Ohio is renowned for being the Birthplace of Aviation, but it’s also recognized for welcoming communities, innovative partnerships, and a genuine spirit of hospitality. I’m thrilled and honored to join the exceptional team at Destination Dayton as the next President & CEO. I am excited to begin working with the board, partners, and the team to inspire tourism in all its forms. Together, we will continue to elevate our brand and visitor economy that support our communities in so many beneficial ways.”
Prior to relocating to Roanoke, John served as the Director of Sales at the RP Funding Center in Lakeland, Florida, National Golf Sales Manager for Hammock Beach Golf Resort & Spa in Palm Coast, Florida, and Sales & Event Representative for Visit Central Florida/Polk County Tourism & Sports Marketing.
He is active in the tourism industry and previously served as Board President for Convention Sales Professional International (CSPI) and was honored with the Shawn Corwin Myland-Award (2021). He is a certified Sports Tourism Strategist (STS) through Sports ETA and currently working through his Certified Destination Management Executive (CDME) designation. He’s a proud graduate of Leadership Roanoke Valley (LRV) Class of 2023.
John graduated from Penn State University with a degree in Recreation Park Management with a focus in Professional Golf Management.
As Dayton and Montgomery County’s destination marketing organization, Destination Dayton® collaboratively leads and advocates for the development of the region’s visitor economy, which contributes to a thriving community, a diverse tax base and lifestyle amenities for everyone to enjoy. For more information about Destination Dayton® and its services, visit www.destinationdayton.org or call 800-221-8235.
