Things to Do

Live at The Brightside: HYRYDER Brings the Grateful Dead Spirit to Dayton

February 13, 2026 By Dayton937

Get ready to ride the sonic wave with one of the most dynamic Grateful Dead tribute bands in the scene! Hyryder rolls into The Brightside Music & Event Venue on Saturday, February 28 for a night of improvisational grooves, extended jams, and faithful renditions of beloved Dead classics that have echoed through generations of music lovers.

Known for their passionate performances and deep reverence for the spirit of the Dead, Hyryder has carved out a reputation for delivering electrifying shows that capture the heart of Jerry Garcia’s legacy while inviting audiences on a fresh, psychedelic journey. Expect winding instrumental passages, soaring melodies, and that unmistakable feeling of communal connection that makes Grateful Dead music timeless.

This performance marks a special night in Dayton as Hyryder transforms The Brightside into a crossroads of rhythm and nostalgia, perfect for longtime Deadheads and curious newcomers alike. Whether you’re chasing the familiar licks of “Sugar Magnolia” or lost in the trance of “Dark Star”-era explorations, this show promises a vibrant celebration of musical creativity.

Details:
• Hyryder at The Brightside Music & Event Venue
• Saturday, February 28
• Doors: 7:00pm / Show: 8–11pm
• Tickets available now — grab yours and hit add to calendar!

Pull on your tie-dye, bring a friend, and tune in for a night where the music lives on in every note. 🎸🌈

5K Beer Fun Run Hits Loose Ends Brewing in Centerville This Valentine’s Weekend

February 13, 2026 By LIbby Ballengee

5K Beer Fun Run Hits Loose Ends Brewing in Centerville This Valentine’s Weekend

Trade the roses for running shoes and raise a pint at the finish line. 🍻🏃‍♀️

On Saturday, February 14, 2026 at 11AM, the 2026 Ohio Brewery Running Series makes its way to Loose Ends Brewing for a 5K Beer Fun Run/Walk that blends fitness, fresh air, and craft beer into one lively community event.

This 5K-ish course starts and ends at the Centerville taproom, taking participants through the surrounding streets for a scenic, heart-pumping loop before returning to celebrate. Whether you’re a seasoned runner chasing miles or just looking for a fun walk with friends, this event is designed for all paces and personalities.

What You Get

All registered participants receive:

🍺 One craft brew at the finish line from Loose Ends Brewing
🎁 A seasonal swag item from the Brewery Running Series
🎟 Entry into prize giveaways including Brewery Running Series merch and beer to take home
🎶 Access to post-run festivities featuring live music, games, and partner activations

Because let’s be honest, crossing a finish line tastes better when it comes with a cold pint.

Run for Fun. Drink Local. Give Back.

The Ohio Brewery Running Series isn’t just about logging miles. The mission is simple: be active, have fun, and give back. To date, the series has raised over $500,000 for nonprofit organizations. This event continues that tradition, with 10% of proceeds donated to a local nonprofit chosen by Loose Ends Brewing.

So every step you take supports local community work. That’s cardio with a cause.

Limited Spots Available

Registration is capped to match the size of the taproom, and these events often sell out. If you want to celebrate Valentine’s Day with good vibes, good beer, and good company, sign up sooner rather than later.

Grab your friends, lace up your shoes, and meet at Loose Ends Brewing on February 14th at 11AM for a run that ends exactly where you want it to — at the bar.

Cheers to miles and malts. 🍺✨

Register here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/5k-beer-run-x-loose-ends-brewing-2026-ohio-brewery-running-series-tickets-1979257996949

SCYTHIAN Returns to The Brightside to Kick Off St. Patrick’s Season in High Gear

February 11, 2026 By Dayton937

If you like your Celtic music turned all the way up, circle Friday, March 6 on your calendar.

Internationally touring Celtic rock band Scythian is bringing their electric live show back to The Brightside Music & Event Venue, and Dayton better be ready. Known for their relentless energy, tight musicianship, and infectious stage presence, Scythian doesn’t just play a show — they ignite one.

This isn’t your sit-in-your-seat kind of concert. Expect a high-octane fusion of Celtic traditions, folk influences, and rock intensity that feels tailor-made for kicking off St. Patrick’s season. If you’ve seen them before, you already know: the room won’t stay still for long. If you haven’t, prepare to be converted.

Upgrade Your Night: VIP Meet & Greet

Want to make it extra special? Upgrade to the VIP Experience and join the band for a pre-show Meet n’ Greet Happy Hour. VIP includes:

• Early entry
• Meet & greet with Scythian
• Guaranteed premium seating
• A more intimate start to the evening

It’s a great option for longtime fans or anyone who wants to make this a full celebration.

Whether you’re Irish by heritage or Irish for the night, this is the kind of show that shakes the winter off your boots and gets the whole city leaning toward spring. Grab your crew, grab your tickets early, and get ready to shamrock The Brightside. 🍀🔥

How to Go

📅 Friday, March 6, 2026
📍 The Brightside, Dayton

5:00 PM – VIP Doors
6:00 PM – General Admission Doors

🎟 General Admission:
$20 in advance
$27 day of show

🎟 VIP:
$60

🎶 All Ages Show (Chaperone required for guests under 16)

Advance tickets are available now:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/scythian-at-the-brightside-in-dayton-tickets-1977307467864

Valentine Date Ideas for Food Lovers

February 11, 2026 By LIbby Ballengee

FOOD & WINE PAIRING: Culp’s Cafe – February 13 @ 5:30 pm

Love is in the air, and we’ve got the perfect date night or besties’ night planned just for you! After a successful first ever wine and dinner pairing in December, we’re back. And due to overwhelming demand, we’ve added an extra night. Chef José and our sommelier Kristopher have curated a stellar menu of thoughtfully paired courses designed to impress, indulge, and delight . Whether you’re celebrating love, friendship, or simply looking for the perfect excuse to sip wine and eat beautifully, this is an evening you won’t want to miss.

SUSHI: Dozo / Tender Mercy – Tuesday Feb 10th through Saturday Feb 14th

Join Dozo during the week of Valentine’s Day for an exclusive, elevated rendition of Dozo: The Tour. DOZO is inside the beautiful underground bar, Tender Mercy, in downtown Dayton. This limited-seating Omakase experience features 7 curated courses including sushi, seasonal appetizers, soup, and dessert—crafted specially for Valentine’s Week. These intimate seatings will be offered twice during the week and three times on both Friday and Saturday, giving guests multiple opportunities to enjoy a rare, up-close experience with Chef Jake and the Dozo culinary team. This Valentine’s Week Tour highlights a number of off-menu chef’s selections not available during standard table reservations or from the à la carte menu. Each seating is intentionally small to maximize interaction, showcase premium ingredients, and deliver a truly personal Omakase journey. Guests may also enhance their experience with an optional wine and sake pairing, curated to complement each course. Guests must be 21 or older.

Register here: https://www.dozo-sushi.com/

CHARCUTERIE: Full Circle Brewgarden – February 14 @ 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm

We have the perfect way to celebrate this Valentine’s Day with that special person in your life… with a great spread of sweet & savory deliciousness from BB Charcuterie! We’ll have all the great drinks you need while they take care of dinner & desert! Full Circle Brewgarden 346 Union Blvd, Englewood, OH, United States

DESSERT: Waynesville Valentine’s Chocolate Walk – February 14 @ 3:00 pm – 6:00 pm

Grab your Valentine and spend the afternoon wandering downtown Waynesville. Participating shops will be offering delicious chocolate samples provided by our very own local Waynesville Candy Shoppe, with each location featuring a different decadent treat while supplies last. Make a day of it by strolling Main Street, shopping local, sharing sweet treats, and enjoying the charm of a small town Valentine’s Day. It’s the perfect way to spend a Valentine’s Day afternoon exploring the shops and treats in the heart of downtown Waynesville. Valentine’s Chocolate Walk

Free Event. Rain or shine.

Dayton Dinner Theater presents “Office Space” Movie Party

February 8, 2026 By Dayton937

Yeah… Hi. We’re Gonna Need You to Come in on Sunday.

Office Space Movie Party with Dayton Dinner Theater

If you’ve ever fantasized about smashing a fax machine in a field or quietly plotting your escape from fluorescent lighting and TPS reports, this one’s for you. Office Space is clocking back in for a fully interactive, nostalgia-soaked movie party from Dayton Dinner Theater at The Brightside.

This is not a “sit quietly and watch a movie” situation. It’s an evening of themed food, themed drinks, themed attire, live music, trivia, and plenty of opportunities to bond with fellow cubicle survivors. Think millennium-era office culture, awkward bosses, questionable management decisions, and just enough chaos to make it feel like a workday gone delightfully off the rails.

Whether you’re a longtime fan of Office Space or just need an excuse to wear suspenders in public and complain about work with strangers, this interactive movie party promises laughs, comfort food, and just the right amount of corporate satire. So yeah… if you could come in on Sunday, that’d be great.

What’s on the agenda (besides hating your job):

🍕 Themed Food
Snacks and appetizers will be available in the commissary, followed by pizza and salad for your “lunch break.” If there’s a birthday in the room, yes, there will be cake and yes, you might get a piece. Management says morale is important.

🍹 Themed Drinks
Cocktails designed to get you through the workday… or the next century. Alcoholic drinks will be available for purchase.

👔 Themed Attire
Dig out your best stuffy 1999 office wear. Suspenders encouraged. Extra credit for excessive flair. BYORS (Bring Your Own Red Stapler).

🎶 Music & Trivia
Enjoy themed live music and a “Name That Tune” game inspired by work, bosses, the millennium, fax machines, and the general grind of earning a living.

The Schedule:

📅 Sunday, March 1, 2026
📍 The Brightside | 905 E 3rd St, Dayton
🕔 5:45 PM – Doors open
🕕 6:00–7:00 PM – Food & live music
🎬 7:00 PM – Movie starts
🍰 8:00 PM – Intermission with dessert & trivia
🕘 9:15 PM (ish) – Movie ends, existential dread optional

Tickets & Seating

🎟 $36 per ticket
👉 Tickets available here: https://www.daytondinnertheater.com/events/office-space-movie-party-with-cake

Table reservations are available for parties of 6 or more. Otherwise, seating is open. For table reservations or questions, email [email protected]

JD Simo + Luther Dickinson Bring a Power-Trio Blues Revival to The Brightside

February 5, 2026 By Dayton937

Two of the most electrifying forces in modern roots music are joining up for a rare trio performance in Dayton this spring — and it’s the kind of show that doesn’t come around often.

Luther Dickinson (North Mississippi Allstars, The Black Crowes) and JD Simo (Chris Isaak, Jack White, Beyoncé) hit The Brightside on Sunday, May 17 with powerhouse drummer Adam Abrashoff for a soul-shaking, roots-infused blues experience that’s equal parts greasy, hypnotic, and wide open.

Dickinson, a four-time Grammy nominee, is currently celebrating the 25th anniversary of North Mississippi Allstarsalongside a brand-new album — continuing his long-standing mission to push Hill Country blues forward without sanding down its edges. His playing is deep in tradition but restless by nature, built for groove and exploration.

Simo, meanwhile, has built a career on fearless reinvention. In addition to touring with Chris Isaak, he’s collaborated with artists ranging from Jack White to Beyoncé and recently played a major creative role on the upcoming Bruce Springsteen biopic Deliver Me from Nowhere, directed by Scott Cooper (Crazy Heart). Simo worked closely with Springsteen and Cooper, supervised the music script, coached lead actor Jeremy Allen White (The Bear), and contributed extensively to the film’s score and soundtrack — a testament to how deeply trusted his musical instincts are.

Together, their chemistry is undeniable. Their collaborative album Do The Rump! has been making serious waves, with the lead single “Come On” hitting #1 on SiriusXM Bluesville. The sound is raw and thrillingly alive — Hill Country trance meets psych-soul meets electrified jam, played without a safety net.

These trio shows are rare. The music is dirty. And the live experience is the point.

Local favorites Strange Ranger open the night, setting the tone before the main event takes over the room.

HOW TO GO:
📍 The Brightside — 905 E Third St, Dayton
📅 Sunday, May 17, 2026
🕕 Doors: 6:00 PM | Show: 7:00 PM
🎟 $20 GA advance | $25 day of show
🪑 Standing show — seating not guaranteed
🍾 Limited reserved tables available
👶 All ages welcome

Get tickets here: https://tickets.venuepilot.com/e/jd-simo-luther-dickinson-2026-05-17-the-brightside-music-event-venue-dayton-d36fb4

This is one of those shows you feel more than you watch. Catch it live.

Roots, Rhythm, and Relief: Bob Marley Bash Comes to Dayton’s Brightside

February 3, 2026 By Dayton937

Dayton’s live-music scene turns toward unity and purpose this February as Bob Marley’s legacy takes center stage at The Brightside Music and Event Venue. On Friday, February 6, music lovers and community builders will gather for the Bob Marley Bash: Music, Unity & Jamaica Relief, a night of reggae-infused performance and collective celebration.

The show features a lineup of artists whose sounds span reggae fusion, high-energy grooves, and community flavor. Luv Locz Experiment brings live reggae fusion rooted in soul and rhythm, blending Caribbean funk with uplifting vibes. Da Squad adds spirited energy and flavor to the night’s flow, while DJ YMS keeps the party moving with selections from three Wheels of Steel.

More than a concert, this birthday bash honors Marley’s message of love, resistance, and togetherness. Organizers are using the night to support Jamaica Relief, a fundraising effort for families affected by Hurricane Melissa, with donations and proceeds benefiting the cause.

Hosted with intention and community at its heart, the Bob Marley Bash invites Dayton audiences to move their bodies, lift their spirits, and connect through music that has inspired generations across the globe.

How to GO?

Location: The Brightside Music & Event Venue

Date: February 6

Time: Doors open at 7:00 PM

For tickets and more details, visit thebrightsidedayton.com

THE BATTLE IS BACK: Dayton’s Biggest Musical Showdown Returns to The Brightside

January 6, 2026 By Dayton937

The search for Dayton’s next breakout artist begins this winter. The Dayton Battle of the Bands is officially back for its sixth season, turning up the volume at The Brightside Music & Event Venue starting Thursday, January 15, 2026.

Dayton Battle of the Bands at The Brightside / Photo contributed

With new title sponsor Tony & Pete’s on board, this year’s competition is more than just a series of concerts, it’s a six-week gauntlet of talent featuring over two dozen local acts. From the heavy riffs of Metal night to the smooth grooves of Funk and Blues, the series offers a front-row seat to the best the Gem City has to offer.

What’s at Stake? This isn’t just for bragging rights. The overall winner will walk away with a massive prize package designed to jumpstart their career:

$1,000 Cash Prize
EP Recording Session with Huge Face Productions at Dayton Sound Studios
A Featured Slot on the Levitt Pavilion Dayton summer series
Custom merchandise and professional media assets

“We want every band to feel the ‘win’ of playing to a packed house,” says organizer Libby Ballengee. “Between the professional photos and the industry exposure, this is a launchpad for the entire scene.”

The Schedule:

Jan 15: Alternative / Rock
Jan 22: Americana / Country / Folk
Jan 29: Hip Hop / Rap
Feb 5: Hard Rock / Metal / Punk
Feb 12: Pop / Rock
Feb 19: Funk / Blues / Jam
March 7: THE GRAND FINALE

Doors open at 6:30 PM each week. Tickets are $10 in advance or $15 at the door. All ages welcome! Grab your tickets at daytonbattleofthebands.com

Shake It Off at The Taylor Party: Taylor Swift Dance Night Returns to The Brightside

December 13, 2025 By Dayton937

Calling all Swifties! Are you ready for it?

The Brightside Music and Event Venue is bringing back THE TAYLOR PARTY, a Taylor Swift-inspired dance celebration on Friday, December 19th from 9:00 PM to 11:50 PM. This 18+ event invites fans to relive the magic of all Taylor’s iconic Eras in one unforgettable night.

Whether you’re still processing the Eras Tour on Disney+ or just need an excuse to break out your best Era-inspired outfit, this is your moment. The Taylor Party promises an enchanting evening of singing, dancing, and celebrating everything Taylor Swift with fellow fans.

Pick your favorite Era outfit (will it be Folklore cottage core or Midnights sparkle?), grab your besties, and get ready to party in style. From “Love Story” to “Anti-Hero,” every Era will be represented on the dance floor.

Long live the magic you’ll make at this ultimate Swiftie celebration! Get your tickets now before they’re gone—this party is sure to sell out faster than you can say “It’s me, hi, I’m the problem, it’s me.”

Event Details:

When: Friday, December 19, 2025, 9:00 PM – 11:50 PM (Doors open at 8:00 PM)
Where: The Brightside, 905 E 3rd St, Dayton, OH 45402
Age: 18+
Tickets: $20 GA advance / $25 at the door – https://www.thebrightsidedayton.com/event-details/the-taylor-party-taylor-swift-night-18-1

For more information and tickets, visit thebrightsidedayton.com

Shake It Off at The Taylor Party: Taylor Swift Dance Night Coming to The Brightside

December 7, 2025 By Dayton937

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.

An Evening of Swiftie Magic

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 Details

When: 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+

Get Your Tickets

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.

About The Brightside

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!

Halloween Funk-Rock Extravaganza: Ernie Johnson From Detroit & Subterranean Take Over The State Theater

October 30, 2025 By Dayton937

Get ready for a freaky Friday night as The State Theater transforms into a heavy funk-rock-jazz dance party on Halloween, featuring Cincinnati’s Ernie Johnson From Detroit and Dayton’s own Subterranean. With costumes encouraged and special performances by The Gorgeous Ghost Demon Dancers from Troupe Roja, this promises to be one of the most electrifying Halloween events in the region.

Ernie Johnson From Detroit has built a reputation for delivering explosive live performances that blend funk, afrobeat, and jazz with ’70s psychedelia and hard rock. The Cincinnati-based big band is known for creating what they call “a hypnotic, danceable sound that is both accessible and boundary pushing at the same time.” Their shows center on intense, spontaneous improvisation combined with sophisticated compositions that live inside the groove. They have the ability to transform any venue into an infectious dance party has made them one of the most sought-after acts in the regional music scene.

Subterranean. Photo by Jimmy Cummings

Complementing the headliners is Subterranean, a fearless jam rock quartet from Dayton that has been lighting up stages for over 15 years. With their sound rooted in rock, funk, jazz, and blues, Subterranean brings what they describe as “improvisation with intent.” The band’s lineup features Chris Coalt on guitar and vocals, Stephen Buttree on keys, saxophone and vocals, Chuckie Love on bass and vocals, and Rob Brockman on drums and vocals. Subterranean’s live performances are characterized by edgy improvisation burning at full throttle, ignited by infectious grooves and powerful, passionate delivery.

Adding to the spectacle, The Gorgeous Ghost Demon Dancers from Troupe Roja will provide visual entertainment throughout the night. With costumes strongly encouraged, attendees are invited to embrace the Halloween spirit while dancing to some of the most innovative music Ohio has to offer.

The State Theater, a historic landmark known for its stunning Art Deco architecture, provides the perfect backdrop for this fusion of musical genres and Halloween festivities. The venue’s intimate setting allows audiences to fully experience the chemistry and creativity that both bands bring to the stage.

For fans of jam bands, funk, and high-energy live music, this Halloween double bill represents a can’t-miss opportunity to experience two of Ohio’s most dynamic acts in one unforgettable night. Whether you’re there for the spontaneous improvisation, the infectious grooves, or just to dance in costume, this show promises to deliver an experience that goes well beyond the typical Halloween party!

HOW TO GO?

Date: Halloween Night, October 31, 2025
Venue: The State Theater, Springfield, OH
Doors: 7:00 PM
Show: 8:00 PM
Tickets: $15 Advance / $20 Door – https://www.springfieldstatetheater.com/event-details-registration/halloween-heavy-funk-rock-jazz-jam-dance-party-w-ernie-johnson-from-detroit-and-subterranean

An Evening of Jazz, Bossa Nova, and Global Harmony at Joui Wine

October 10, 2025 By Dayton937

This Wednesday, Dayton music lovers are invited to experience something truly special: an intimate concert featuring the remarkable musical partnership of trombonist and vocalist Natalie Cressman and composer and guitarist Ian Faquini at Joui Wine. Presented by Venus Child Productions, the evening promises an evening of sophisticated jazz, Brazilian grooves, and enchanting vocals that will transport audiences across continents and musical traditions. Local singer and recent Berklee graduate Kammeron Frost opens up this special evening of live music.

Though calling Cressman and Faquini a duo understates the depth of their musical collaboration, their partnership represents something far more expansive. Hailing from San Francisco and Brasilia respectively, the two artists have cultivated a singular creative communion that draws from their shared love of the Brazilian songbook, jazz, Impressionism, and sophisticated pop songcraft.

What sets this duo apart is their fearless eclecticism. Their original compositions weave lyrics in Portuguese, French, and English into a rich tapestry of sounds that borrows from multiple stylistic traditions. Accompanied by the warm tones of acoustic guitar and trombone, their sumptuous two-part vocal harmonies create a richly orchestrated sound that belies the intimate duo format, seeming to emanate from a much larger ensemble.

Cressman, a trombonist, vocalist, and songwriter, brings sophisticated melodic sensibility to the ensemble, while Faquini’s composition and guitar work provide both harmonic depth and rhythmic vitality. Together, they’ve created a sound that feels both timeless and contemporary, sophisticated yet deeply soulful.

HOW TO GO?

Join Natalie Cressman and Ian Faquini for an evening of live music this Wednesday, October 15, 2025 at Joui Wine, located at 117 E 3rd St, Dayton, OH. Doors open at 7:00 p.m., with the show running from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m.

Tickets are available for $20 in advance or $25 at the door. This is an event for ages 21 and up.

To learn more about the artists, visit Natalie Cressman’s website

This Must Be the Party Returns to The Brightside for “Stop Making Sense” Celebration

October 9, 2025 By Dayton937

This Must Be the Party!

Get ready to dance. One of Dayton’s most acclaimed musical events is back, and it’s bringing the legendary energy of The Talking Heads to The Brightside‘s Ballroom this October.

This Must Be the Party returns for an all-star musical celebration that features a complete recreation of the iconic Stop Making Sense album, one of rock music’s most beloved records. If you’ve experienced this event before, you know it’s not just a concert—it’s a full-throttle dance party that captures the experimental spirit and infectious groove of David Byrne’s masterpiece.

The evening kicks off with special guests The Nth Power from New York, a trio that brings together an impressive mix of musical talent and diverse backgrounds. Fronting the band is singer and guitarist Nick Cassarino, whose previous work with the Jennifer Hartswick Band and tours with hip-hop legend Big Daddy Kane showcase his versatility across genres.

On bass is Nate Edgar, whose credits include the bands Groovechild and John Brown’s Body, providing the low-end foundation for the group’s groovy sound. Completing the trio is drummer Nikki Glaspie, a powerhouse musician who spent five years as Beyoncé’s world-touring drummer before joining Ivan Neville’s New Orleans funk outfit, Dumpstaphunk.

Together, The Nth Power demonstrates that great music knows no boundaries—bringing together artists from jazz, funk, hip-hop, and rock traditions into one unified sound.

HOW TO GO?

Date: October 10, 2025
Venue: The Brightside (905 E 3rd St., Dayton, OH)
Doors: 7:00 PM | Show Starts: 8:00 PM

Tickets:

$25 presale general admission
$30 day of show general admission
$160 reserved tables with 4 tickets (limited quantity)

Get tickets here: https://tickets.venuepilot.com/e/this-must-be-the-party-with-special-guests-the-nth-power-2025-10-10-the-brightside-music-event-venue–9dcc83

All ages are welcome, though patrons under 18 will need parental supervision. Those 21 and over should bring valid ID if they wish to purchase beverages.

A heads-up for attendees: this is a standing show with limited seating available for those who need it. This is a dance party, so comfortable shoes are highly recommended—you’ll want to be able to move freely as the music takes you on a journey through one of the greatest albums ever made!

The Beat Goes On: Dayton’s Next Generation Carries Forward the City’s Legendary Funk Legacy

September 10, 2025 By Dayton937

On Thursday, September 18, The Brightside Music & Event Venue will transform into a celebration of both Dayton’s storied past and its promising musical future. “From Dayton With Funk” promises an electrifying evening featuring three dynamic local acts: Luv Locz Experiment, MelinaMarie, and Freakquency. These rising stars will perform a carefully curated mix of iconic funk classics alongside their own original compositions, creating a bridge between the city’s golden age of funk and its contemporary renaissance.

The event offers more than just entertainment. Attendees will have the opportunity to view exclusive Dayton-centric segments from the PBS documentary WE WANT THE FUNK! providing historical context and celebrating the city’s often-overlooked contributions to American music culture. It’s a rare chance to see how Dayton’s musical DNA continues to influence artists today.

Luv Locz Experiment headlines “From Dayton With Funk”

What sets “From Dayton With Funk” apart from typical concert experiences is its commitment to supporting the region’s cultural infrastructure. Proceeds from the event will benefit PBS stations ThinkTV (Dayton) and CET (Cincinnati), and the Yellow Springs Film Festival, organizations that champion public media and arts programming throughout the area. In an era where funding for public broadcasting and independent arts initiatives faces constant challenges, events like this demonstrate how local music scenes can support broader cultural initiatives.

“It’s about more than just a night of great music,” explains event organizer, Libby Ballengee. “We’re investing in the platforms that help preserve and share our community’s stories.”

While the evening will undoubtedly feature beloved classics that have defined Dayton’s sound for generations, the focus on original material from contemporary artists ensures this isn’t merely a nostalgia trip. Luv Locz Experiment, MelinaMarie, and Freakquency represent different approaches to funk’s evolution, each bringing their own influences and innovations to the genre’s traditional foundation.

The Brightside Music & Event Venue, known for its intimate atmosphere and excellent acoustics, provides the perfect setting for this multi-generational celebration.

The beat that started decades ago in Dayton continues to pulse through the city’s venues, studios, and hearts. On September 18, that beat will be louder than ever, carrying forward a legacy while writing new chapters in the ongoing story of Dayton funk.

HOW TO GO?

Thursday, September 18

Doors: 7:00 PM / Show: 8:00 PM

The Brightside Music & Event Venue

All ages welcome!

🎟️ Tickets: http://bit.ly/44LlW9T

General Admission – $25 (Advance) Limited seating available throughout the venue
VIP Table for 2 – $150 Reserved seating at premium tables near the stage (not on dance floor).
VIP Table for 4 – $200 Reserved seating close to the stage for your whole crew (not on dance floor).
General Admission Day of Show – $30 (we accept cash or credit at the door)

For more information about The Brightside Music & Event Venue and upcoming shows, visit their website here, or follow them on social media.

Dayton Dines by Design: Art, Design, and Philanthropy Unite

June 10, 2025 By LIbby Ballengee

Prepare to be inspired: the inaugural Dayton Dines by Design is set to take center stage on June 25–26, 2025, bringing dazzling design, culinary elegance, and creative spirit to the heart of Dayton. Hosted in support of the Dayton Performing Arts Alliance (DPAA), this two-day fundraising celebration invites guests into a world of breathtaking tablescapes, curated by some of the region’s most talented designers, florists, artists, and design boutiques.

Dayton Dines by Design supports the Dayton Performing Arts Alliance. Photo of Keitaro Harada by the DPAA (Contributed)

Dayton Dines by Design will feature a stunning gallery of immersive tablescape installations, each a one-of-a-kind artistic vision, transforming traditional dining into a visual experience. This elegant affair begins with a festive Cocktail Reception on Wednesday, June 25, followed by an inspired Luncheon Event on Thursday, June 26. Tickets are sold separately for both events.

At the heart of the luncheon is keynote speaker Corey Damen Jenkins, a nationally acclaimed interior designer known for his bold, sophisticated work. Named to the prestigious AD100 and Elle Décor A-List, Jenkins has been featured in House Beautiful, Traditional Home, and his celebrated book Design Remix. His keynote promises to be as dynamic and stylish as his interiors.

Proceeds from Dayton Dines by Design will directly support DPAA’s education programs in ballet, opera, and orchestra—helping cultivate the next generation of performers and arts lovers throughout the region.

The Dayton Ballet & Dayton Opera are supported by Dayton Dines By Design proceeds.

“This event is about more than beautiful tables—it’s a celebration of creativity and community,” said Allyson Danis, Committee Chair “By supporting Dayton Dines by Design, you’re also supporting the young musicians, dancers, and vocalists who will shape our cultural future.”

Whether you’re a design enthusiast, a patron of the arts, or simply looking for a one-of-a-kind experience, Dayton Dines by Design invites you to take a seat at the table—and be part of something beautiful.

HOW TO GO?
Cocktail Party & Tour of the Tables | Wednesday, June 25, 2025 | 5pm to 7pm

Luncheon & Keynote Presentation | Thursday, June 26, 2025 | 10:30am to 2pm

Location for both events: Carillon Historical Park, 1000 Carillon Blvd, Dayton, OH 45409

Tickets & More Information: https://daytonperformingarts.org/dayton-dines/

Heartsiq’s Third Annual “Mixtape” Festival is this Saturday with Two Stages, Vendors, and Art at The Brightside

June 5, 2025 By Dayton937

Heartsiq is a queer focused arts and entertainment group based in Dayton, OH that presents monthly curated live music and visual arts events around town, monthly “Queeraoke” events at The Oregon Express, and other queer focused events throughout the year.

On June 7th, they’re presenting their 3rd Annual Mixtape Festival featuring queer artists, live musicians, DJs, MCs, vendors, and more on multiple stages at The Brightside Music and Events Venue.

“We’ve changed the game this year for Pride!” Kacie Clover, Heartsiq Partner said. “Get ready for a local vendors market, a DJ rave room with go-go dancers, a talk show, local acts, and so much more!”

Heartsiq has grown over the last three years from a monthly showcase to their third annual Mixtape Festival over Pride weekend with dozens of events at multiple venues every year.

“We need Pride now more than ever. Queer joy is important. Queer joy is necessary. Queer joy is revolutionary” Ky Heart, Founder and Partner said. “We’re here and we’re not going anywhere. This festival is going to be Heartsiq like you’ve never seen it before! ”

If you’re interested in attending Heartsiq’s Mixtape Festival or other events, organizers say these events are for everyone.

“The definition of queer people and queer identities is always growing,” Clover said. “Heartsiq is a home for every single person.” She continued “Hosting Heartsiq has been an incredibly rewarding experience. The opportunity to promote LGBTQ artists, as well as spread queer joy has been a dream,” Heart said.

Attendees can get more information and tickets at heartsiq.com