Dayton937

Things to do in Dayton | Restaurants, Theatre, Music and More

Dayton937

Pizza Hut Brings Back Triple Treat Box

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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.

Good Grief Skate

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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

The Grinch Meal Now at McDonald’s

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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 restSprinkle 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.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.”

 

Swoon – Book Store & Wine Bar Coming to Oakwood

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Pop quiz question 1:

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.

Pop quiz question 2:

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.

Pop quiz question 3:

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!

Breakfast with The Grinch

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Price includes breakfast buffet, visit with the Grinch, and other fun surprises! All proceeds benefit the Kettering Backpack. Event will be held in the Breezeway that is located between Petco and Buffalo Wild Wings.
Price includes breakfast buffet, visit with the Grinch, and other fun surprises! All proceeds benefit the Kettering Backpack.

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.

New President & CEO Selection For Destination Dayton®

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“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.

The Holly Jolly Variety Hour is coming to town!

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The Holly Jolly Variety Show returns! The Dayton Playhouse is bringing back its holiday-themed fundraiser on Saturday, December 13th. Hosted by Brandon Shockney, the evening showcases an exciting mix of local performers and includes special presentations from Dayton Gay Men’s Chorus group NOTEWORTHY, Funk Lab Dayton, Dayton Poetry Slam, and much more! Come ring in the holidays with a night of song, dance, comedy and seasonal cheer!
Tickets are available now for the 8 pm show, which also includes a 7 pm social hour with drinks and treats!

Dayton Backpacker Campfire

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Bring your family and friends to the original Dayton Backpacker Campfire, featuring adventure, nature and travel programs.

The programs are free and open to the public. All ages are welcome.

The programs are on the first Thursday of the month at 6:30 pm at Cox Arboretum MetroPark, in Dayton, Ohio and last about 90 minutes.

The Dayton Backpacker Campfire is presented in partnership with Five Rivers MetroParks.

backpackercampfire.com

Thursday, January 08, 2026, 6:30pm-8:00pm
Thursday, February 05, 2026, 6:30pm-8:00pm
Thursday, March 05, 2026, 6:30pm-8:00pm
Location
6733 Springboro Pk
Miamisburg, OH

The Texas Tenors Christmas

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Ring in the holiday season with this beloved trio of musicians. The Texas Tenors have amassed a huge fan base worldwide, with over half a million followers on social media and more than 20 million views on YouTube, Facebook and Instagram. In 2019, they were Billboard Magazine‘s #10 Classical Artists in the World and are considered the most successful touring group in the history of America’s Got Talent. As consummate professionals, these three friends with a simple All-American dream have proven their impact to be long-lasting. A traditional family Christmas experience, The Texas Tenors make a stop in Troy, OH, to perform Christmas favorites, presented with award-winning harmonies and arrangements.

Santafoolery Bike Tour

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We aren’t elfing around! Let’s get in one more Tomfoolery Outdoors bicycle ride in downtown Dayton, OH to send 2025 out in style.
Get in the holiday spirit while cruising around the Gem City decked out in your finest Santa suit, ugly sweater, holiday costume, onesie and/or hang some stockings and lights on your bike, and get ready to ride!
Most of this ride will be at night. Bring appropriate lights, clothing and helmet.
Brace yourself we traditionally take awkwardly close portraits for those who aren’t camera shy!
The Plan: *Schedule subject to change. Estimated arrival times at stops listed below.
Note – if you would like to eat while on tour and stay with group your best option is at Troll Pub for welcome party or call ahead for Old Scratch Pizza.
5-6 pm – Welcome and Registration Party at Troll Pub
6 pm – Start Ride from Troll Pub
6:30 pm- Stop #1 – Carillon Holiday Tree
7 pm – Stop #2 : @Old Scratch Pizza
8 pm – Stop #3 – Courthouse Square Holiday Tree
8:30 – 9:30 pm – Finish Line Party at Troll Pub
To learn more about the Santafoolery Bike Tour presented by New Belgium Brewing contact Tom Helbig at 937-417-2228

5 course Martini Pairing Dinner

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Sip, savor & celebrate the season. 🍸✨
Join us for our Merry Martini 5-Course Pairing Dinner, featuring festive flavors and handcrafted martinis made to toast the holidays.
📅 Two dates to choose from: Thursday, Dec 4th & Tuesday, Dec 9th
🕕 6:30 PM | 💵 $80 per person
Seats are limited! Reserve your spot and make it a night to remember. 🎁

COURSE 1

SEAFOOD CHOWDER

Creamy white wine chowder with roasted shrimp and scallops, topped with bacon.

VEUVE CLICQUOT YELLOW LABEL

The epitome of classic champagne celebrated for its elegance and consistency, this champagne’s vibrant acidity and fine bubbles provide a refreshing contrast to the creamy texture of the seafood chowder.

Course 1

COURSE 2

SHAVED BRUSSELS SPROUTS SALAD

Fresh salad mix and shaved brussels sprouts tossed in maple balsamic vinaigrette, topped with toasted macadamia nuts, grape tomatoes, feta, balsamic glaze and crispy onions.

FROSTED ROSEMARY POMEGRANATE

Made with Grey Goose vodka, cranberry, pomegranate and mango flavors, the sweet and tart elements of the martini enhance the sweetness of the vinaigrette while balancing the earthy, slightly bitter notes of the brussels sprouts and spinach.

Course 2

COURSE 3

LOBSTER STUFFED SHRIMP

Jumbo shrimp stuffed with lobster imperial, topped with lemon butter sauce.

PARTRIDGE IN A PEAR TREE

Absolut Pear vodka, St~Germain Elderflower liqueur and lemon juice give the martini a crisp fruitiness that brings a refreshing acidity, cutting through the buttery richness of the sauce.

Course 3

COURSE 4

FILET & CRAB CAKE WITH BANG HOLLANDAISE

Wood-grilled filet paired with a lump crab cake, topped with a creamy spicy hollandaise sauce, finished with green onion, served with asparagus.

WINTER WHITE COSMO

Hand-shaken with Reyka vodka, Cointreau liqueur, St~Germain Elderflower liqueur, fresh lime and cranberry juice, this citrus-forward and slightly floral martini pairs well with the rich filet and spicy hollandaise.

Course 4

COURSE 5

BOURBON CHOCOLATE BROWNIE

Rich, flourless brownie topped with warm chef-crafted bourbon macadamia nut sauce and fresh whipped cream.

CHOCOLATE ORANGE MARTINI

Patrón Silver tequila, Cointreau, Creme de Cocoa, and chocolate topped with sweet cold foam and orange zest. This pairing is indulgent yet balanced. The cocktail’s bright citrus and subtle tequila notes cut through the richness of the brownie.

Course 5

The DGMC Present “Slay” Bells Ring!

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Join the DGMC and start the holiday season off right with “Slay” Bells Ring! The chorus will be slaying traditional songs as well as some new holiday favorites. For over two decades the DGMC has been ringing in the holidays at the historic Westminster Presbyterian Church for two concerts. You will not want to miss this event!
2 shows- 2pm & 6pm
Tickets on sale NOW! $30 for adults, $20 for student and active duty and children under 7 are free!

2026 Battle of the Bands Line Up Released

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The annual concert series competition kicks off in January at the Brightside Music and Events Venue in downtown Dayton and features six preliminary rounds from which six finalists are chosen to compete at the finale on Saturday, March 7. “The goal of Dayton Battle of the Bands is to give a platform for the outstanding local musical talent we have in the Dayton community, while providing a prize package that helps launch them to their next level,” says organizer Libby Ballengee of Venus Child Productions.

The preliminary rounds are organized by genre and are judged by both a crowd vote and a panel of judges made up of local music industry professionals and tastemakers. The winner of the finale is chosen entirely by the audience. The competition is for original music only with participants who live within a 35-mile radius of downtown Dayton.

Grand Prize winner gets:

$1000 cash prize, a Free EP recording session with Dayton Sound Studios, the opportunity to perform at Levitt Pavilion Dayton during the Summer 2026 Concert Season and 50, 1 color design T-shirts, printed by Little Monster Printing.

Black Friday Deal:
This year for Black Friday they are offering a special on the  Battle of the Bands Series Pass!  Get the  SERIES PASS for just $50 (Regularly $75) – That’s just $7.14 per show!
Get into ALL 6 weeks + the Finale for less than a pizza! Save $60 off door prices!
Option 2 is for a  VIP TABLE FOR TWO – $300 (Regularly $400)
Want guaranteed seating? Snag a table for 2 and save $50! **This is the ONLY way to get a table at the Finale (other than being a sponsor). Limited quantity available!**
This sales starts Black Friday and runs through Cyber Monday at midnight
Don’t miss 7 nights of original, local music for an unbeatable price. Support Dayton’s music scene and discover your new favorite band!
NOTE: Individual week tickets will be on sale soon as well!

 

Previos Battle of the Band Winners:
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2020

THE KATAWICKS

The Katawicks are a soulful indie folk rock trio that has the distinction of being our first-ever Dayton Battle of the Bands winners! Allison Justice (leader, singer, guitar, ukulele), Matt Washburn (lead guitar), and Tony Powers (bass) make up this fantastic group. Listen to The Katawicks Spotify here. 

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2022

BOHEMIAN FUNK

Bohemian Funk blew audiences away with their dynamic sound and throwback look. Led by Rocko Dalian, this band is self-described as rock’n’soul, mixing blues, rock, soul and, of course, funk, to create their sound. Take a listen here.

IMG_8269.JPG2023

CRABSWITHOUTLEGS

Crabswithoutlegs is a young, nine-piece original jazz-fusion ensemble made up of performing arts students. Led by singer Eleanor Dakota and bass player & composter, Carter Griffin, they enchant audiences with their robust sound and undeniable talent! Explore their music here.

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2024

FREAKQUENCY

Freakquency rocked our stage with their energetic funk-fusion originals and mad skills! Led by a dynamic front man, Sayyid Jones, this group has been honing their skills and sound for several years and are ready to take on the world!  You can listen to Freakquency here.

 

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2025

Empire pool

Empire Pool knocked our socks off with their high-energy rock and incredible stage presence! Their originals are infused with funk, surf, jam, and indie influences. This young band is one to keep your eye on! You can listen to Empire Pool here.

 

It’s MetroParks Ice Rink Opening Day!

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As far as traditions go, not much can top ice skating with your friends and family on a cool winter day. Gather your loved ones to the MetroParks Ice Rink where you can listen to holiday music while gliding on the ice, then enjoy food and drinks from the RiverScape Café. At 150 feet by 70 feet, it is one of the region’s largest outdoor skating rinks and the coolest spot in town.

The ice rink officially opens Friday, Nov. 28 at 11 a.m. and will remain open daily through Feb. 27, 2026 (weather permitting), with the exception of Christmas Day (closed). To view hours of operation through the entire season, please visit the ice rink page on metroparks.org. Skate admission is $7 and skate rentals are $3, ages three and under skate free with a paying adult. Visitors receive a 75% discount — $1.75 admission and $0.75 skate rental — on admission and skate rental by presenting either a SNAP/EBT or Access to Nature card at the Rental Office. This discount is made possible by the Five Rivers MetroParks Access to Nature financial assistance program, supported by the Five Rivers MetroParks Foundation.

Season passes are also now available. If ordering a season pass online before Opening Day on Nov. 28, guests can take advantage of presale pricing and purchase an individual pass for $32 or a family pass (for families up to five) for $96. Both passes include admission and skate rental for an unlimited number of visits all season long. During opening weekend (Nov. 28 through Nov. 30), there will also be a sale where they can be purchased at $34 for individuals and $102 for families. On Dec. 1, season passes will return to the full price of $40 for individuals and $120 for families.

The MetroParks Ice Rink Season is presented by Dayton Children’s, along with additional sponsors The Rehabilitation Institute of Ohio, MSD, Inc., Enterprise Roofing, DICK’S House of Sport, Flying Ace Express Car Wash, Musick’s Body Shop, ABC22/FOX45/Dayton 24/7 Now and Winans Coffee & Chocolate.

Feeling a bit wobbly on the ice?

Whether you are new to ice skating or are just looking for a refresher, there is no better place than the MetroParks Ice Rink to Learn to Skate. For adults and kids who may be a little wobbly on the ice or would like some extra support, we have you covered with our skate helpers. These provide a sturdy and safe option for you to gain confidence at no additional charge. Be aware that there are a limited number of skate helpers and they are available on a first come, first serve basis.

If you are new to skating or looking for a more structured approach, we have you covered. Participants will receive enthusiastic, hands-on training from a certified skating instructor for a total of three courses, covering an assortment of skills to gain more confidence on the ice. Classes are offered by age group (children, youth and teen/adult). To learn more or to register, please view our website.

  • Learn to Skate: Sundays – Nov. 30, Dec. 7 and Dec. 14 (Registration Required)
  • Learn to Skate: Sundays – Jan. 4, 11 and 18 (Registration Required)
  • Learn to Skate: Sundays – Feb. 1, 8 and 15 (Registration Required)

Ice Skating 101

If you are planning your first visit to the MetroParks Ice Rink, you may be a little overwhelmed and not sure what to expect. Don’t worry! With a little bit of practice and patience, ice skating can be a magical experience. Here are some tips and tricks to help you gain confidence on the ice.

  • Dress Appropriately: Wear warm, layered, nonrestrictive clothing. Don’t forget to bring a hat and gloves, and wear tall socks to keep your feet warm and comfortable inside the skates. Consider bringing a backpack to keep all your belongings together in a dry place.
  • Getting to RiverScape MetroPark: The MetroParks Ice Rink is located just off the interstate on the edge of the Great Miami River. There is metered parking available (for FREE after 6 p.m. on weekdays and all day on weekends) along Monument Ave., Patterson Blvd., Harries St. and St. Clair St.; there is also a parking garage and open lot just north of Monument Ave. on Water St., all within a five-minute walk of the park.
  • Check in at the Rental Office: The Rental Office is located right next to the RiverScape Café. Stop in and pay for admission and your skate rental. If you choose, there are also lockers available to rent for $1 each. Then, have a seat on the nearby benches where you can lace up comfortably in the MSD Warming Zone.
  • Warm-Up Exercises: If you are new to ice skating, we recommend a few gentle stretches of your arms, legs and neck to help loosen your muscles before heading out.
  • Start with Penguin Steps: Maintaining balance is key to successful ice skating. Before you try using a push step, begin with a penguin march. Stand near the outside of the rink, keeping your feet shoulder-width apart. Bend your knees slightly, keep your back straight and your head looking straight ahead (don’t look down). Then start taking some tiny penguin marching steps. Just like that, you are taking your first steps on the ice.
  • Start Gliding: Once you gain confidence, try taking small gliding steps or pushing off in between steps to gain momentum. If you feel yourself losing balance, try to relax and bend your knees slightly to absorb the impact. Falling forward? Make your hands into fists and extend your forearms at a 90° angle to cushion the fall without putting pressure on your wrists. Falling backward? Tuck your chin, round your back and try to land on your butt.
  • Take Breaks: Remember to reward yourself for all your hard work with a visit to the RiverScape Café for some hot cocoa and snacks. You can also warm up in the heated comfort tent.
  • Practice and Patience: Try not to get discouraged if you stumble or find it challenging at first. With consistent effort and perseverance, your balance, control and overall skating abilities will improve. Remember to have fun!

 

Every Friday is Theme Night

Theme Nights are back at the MetroParks Ice Rink this year every Friday from 6 to 10 p.m. Guests will enjoy custom playlists linked to each week’s theme that will play throughout the evening as well as custom décor. Visitors are also welcome to relax in one of several warming areas, including a heated comfort tent containing games and seating.

Plus, every Sunday in January and February is Family Skate Day. For more information on upcoming events, please visit the ice rink page on metroparks.org and the RiverScape Facebook page.

Dayton Turkey Trot

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“Donut” stop until you get to the finish line! Dayton’s very own Bill’s Donuts & a commemorative finisher medal waiting for you at the finish line!

RUN DAYTON

-Chip-timed, fun run categories & kids categories. You choose!
-11 YEARS STRONG. Run the tradition!
-Complete a 5K/Half Marathon and make room for leftovers!

Funk and Wine Party in Yellow Springs

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Basim Blunt, better known as DJ Radio Basim, curates a deep-digging blend of funk, soul, retro R&B and radio-inspired grooves. He has strong ties to the Dayton and Yellow Springs area, and brings a rich musical background that spans community radio, DJ culture and local music advocacy.