Dayton937

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

Active Living

Trivia Triumph Punctuates RubiGirls’ ‘Best Season Ever!’

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With almost 700 seats sold for the annual ‘Show Must Go On‘ at the historic Arcade, the RubiGirls again proved they are a force for good in the Dayton area. This year, the ‘Girls’ were deep into their ‘Best Season Ever‘ which was, in reality, their 41st year raising fun and funds. Within their 41st season, The Girls were able to benefit 110 local non-profits and charities, and provide scholarships to five graduating high school students in the area. It was, at the very least, a breakthrough year in terms of funds raised. ‘What we experienced was not what many non-profits felt this year. Our donations were sound and solid, and our shows were full at every turn. It is interesting to note that we have been able to find a path through tougher times. It seems that entertainment is truly craved in the area, and we do it with humor and parody. The laughs led to donations. Donations lead to helping as many as we can in the region.’ Says the ‘Mother Rubi’ herself, Dana Sintell. Along with Fonda Peters, the two have been here for every single season. ‘We have seen it all over the years. Right now, we are seeing a big increase in concern for charitable organizations! Being a pass-through organization, we have the ability to take those donations and easily disperse them to multiple organizations. People like knowing that a donation to us helps many!’ said Sintell.

Rubi Girls – The show Must Go On! – 2025

The history of the Girls is well-known in the area. A group of college friends started putting on shows on Rubicon Street (thus the name), and the shows found an audience quickly. From that attic (in a house since torn down,) the girls found their mission…fighting discrimination and HIV! ‘It took off around 1985. We were bringing laughter to some dark times. And we found our footing there! It exploded as the need for HIV dollars became an emergency.’ Dayton’s legendary drag troop was born.

With that, they have had the internal battles that were sure to follow a group of grown men doing shows for 41 years around the city, state, and even country. ‘We’ve had drama! But this season proved we still have the love and laughter people so desire.’ Their Best Season Ever drew to a close on 12/8 at the Dayton Art Institute with a fun-filled night of trivia. ‘We had the 3 old goats together. Dana was there, Fonda, too, and the beloved India Summer. We are the longest-lasting performers in the RubiFamily. We know how to play off of each other well.  It was a great way to end the season. A packed house, a ton of laughs, and a new set of faces who left endeared to our mission.’

We had to ask the inevitable question…’If this is the Best Season Ever, what happens next season?’

‘Oh, we got that figured out! Next season is ‘Better Than The Best Season Ever!‘ Sintell quipped. ‘Listen, we have people out there who really are in need. We have to keep elevating what we bring to the city we love!!’

You can donate to the RubiGirls and follow their schedules at https://therubigirls.com/ Merchandise and sponsorships are available as well.

***The Girls are made up of local professionals that use their talent solely for fund-raising purposes.

If you are a nonprofit or know of a charity in need, have them reach out to the website and click the Grants on the website.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Try Winter Hiking at Sugarcreek

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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

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

Enjoy the Ride ‘Back to the Future!’

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‘Oh My God….that car was amazing!’  ‘The backdrops were eye-popping!’ ‘I loved the tongue-in-cheek musical numbers!’

‘Back to the Future’ at the Schuster, is a free-wheeling tribute to the beloved movie, and a lot more! Although the songs, which at times can feel a little bit karaoke, are full-on fun and silly, you often lose focus on a cast that is giving it their all throughout the romp. I couldn’t help but notice that folks were anxious in the first act to see the ‘legendary’ DeLorean and its magical entrance. Meanwhile, a story is being told for all of us as well. Through hi-tech staging…and reminders of days gone by (1985 was 40 years ago….WTF!)….we are thrown into a land of the McFly family which remains true to the form as created for the film. There are some fun, if not over-the-top, intros to each of the family members. Lucas  Marty does a good job of maintaining the look and vibe for movie fans. Mike Bindemann‘s George is funky and endearing. Fisher Lane Stewart gives 110% to the Dave role, and Abbey Freidmann‘s Linda foots the bill. Perhaps the McFly to watch in this performance is Zan Berube‘s Lorraine. She seamlessly does it all…gives you the frump, the fabulous, and ‘freaky’ sides of the mom figure!

The energy picks up in the theatre when David Josefberg‘s take on Doc Brown, hits the stage. Throughout the show, he makes his moments, HIS MOMENTS! Also of note, Cartreze Tucker belting ‘Gotta Start Somewhere’  and the devilish performance by Nathaniel Hackmann as Biff. And yes, the car. The CAR! I didn’t want to like it…almost was dead-set on not liking it…just to be contrary. But the truth is, it’s pretty astounding to watch. Blended with backgrounds that look alive and real (the high school gym scene is a mind-trip!)…the car is, in its own way, another star of the show!

 

Advice…go into the theatre looking to have a good time. A fun, funny, fantastic frolic awaits….

that kids of all ages will enjoy!

Ticket info at http://daytonlive.org

 

 

 

 

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

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

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!

Wayne and Clover Coffee to keep the ‘Light’ on for Dayton!

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Press. Wholly Grounds. MidDay. Dayton has some amazing coffee shops. Among them has been the beloved ‘Ghostlight’ in South Park Historic District. Facing challenges, the owner faced a tough decision: how to move on. With that, 2 of Ghostlight’s biggest fans, Tim Farquhar and Joshua Stucky heard the news and immediately reacted! ‘No way are we letting this place go. It is a Dayton Landmark. We have to find a way to keep the ‘light’ on.’  Within less than 2 weeks, a deal was struck to save the iconic shop. ‘We are thrilled…and a bit overwhelmed!’ says Farquhar.

‘It happened so fast, we are definitely playing catch-up to all things. We are looking for bakers, retail opportunities, graphic artists and events for the space. All the while, we are keeping the world’s best coffee shop team intact and operating as best we can! People have been so incredibly supportive of this!’ Says Stucky. ‘We have found a fantastic partner in ContempoRoast Coffee & Roastery. We had a cupping class with them, and it was an instant connection. They understand our desire to make ‘coffee integrity’ the number one factor in partnering! They are simply amazing people!’

Ghostlight is well-known for its diverse customer base, and the new owners love it! ‘Oh my goodness. In our first week, it was so cool to meet so many people from so many walks of life. They are definitely a family here…it’s apparent!’ The new owners are taking over the entire first floor of the building in hopes of creating more space for small meetings, acoustic music, events, and more. ‘The potential here is limitless,’ says Farquhar.

So what’s with the new name ‘Wayne and Clover’ you ask? ‘Funny story. I was having coffee with my husband the day we found out we were getting this opportunity. I went through every name I could. I remember learning in business ‘if you can incorporate your address, it’s a good idea.’ I sat up and said, ‘Wait….Wayne and Clover! WAYNE and CLOVER! Think about it…they are people! Wayne and Clover are people, and they have a coffee shop! AND that’s the corner where we are located! SHAZAM! It immediately stuck. Wayne and Clover Coffee Shop. (The shop is located at 1201 Wayne Avenue.) And from there, the story grew to include the street behind us, which is Theobald…you guessed it, THEIR DOG! I think he is likely to be the mascot for all things Wayne and Clover!’

Part of the community piece will be inviting local artists to give ideas for the look of W & C’s logo and artwork that follows the story of the neighborhood and the future!

The building is also important to South Park. It has become a gathering spot for the area. ‘We want to respect the fact that this is more than a coffee shop. For South Park, it is a home away from home. We will do our level best to keep the ‘Light’ in the store so it’s familiar and fun!’ The coffee shop is supporting Miami Valley Meals this holiday season. 

Wayne and Clover Coffee Shop is located at 1201 Wayne Ave. Dayton, OH 45410.
Hours: M-Th 7-2 | Fri 7-4 | Sat + Sun 8-4
Follow them on Instagram.

Miamisburg Turkey Trot

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Hello Trotters!  Join us in Downtown Miamisburg on Thanksgiving morning for our traditional event!

RACE TIME: Race begins promptly at 8:30 a.m.

RACE COURSE: the race will start at the intersection of Main St and Linden Ave and finish in Riverfront Park! Along the way you will enjoy the sights and sounds along the streets of Miamisburg that you have come to know and love. The loop course includes a railroad crossing and an uphill section. There is one water stop. Yes, there is still a hill in the first mile!

The race proceeds benefit a great cause: the non-profit Ohio River Road Runner’s Club based here locally in Dayton!  We’re dedicated to providing free/low-cost races to children and adults all over the Miami Valley to encourage healthy lifestyles and spread the joy of running!

Springboro Christmas Festival 5K Run/ Walk

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Join us for the 12th Annual Springboro Christmas Festival 5K Run/ Walk.
Register by Nov. 1st to get a shirt!
https://rebrand.ly/CIS-5K
All event proceeds benefit Operation Santa, Springboro Community Assistance Center, and The Pantry serving Franklin, Carlisle, and Springboro.
5k Race begins at 9:00am- at the corner of W. Mill St. and S. Main St.
Medals following race in Entertainment Tent Awarded to top females and males in each division: 10 & under, 11-19, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60-69, 70 & over.

GRAND OPENING at Black Barn Pickleball

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Join us Saturday, November 15th | 10AM–6PM at 4740 Linden Ave, Dayton, OH for a full day of fun, open courts, and giveaways! 🏓✨
✅ All levels welcome — no experience needed!
☕ Refreshments served all day
🎁 Prizes & giveaways throughout the event
Don’t miss your chance to play on Dayton’s newest pickleball courts!

👉 RSVP now to reserve your spot:
🔗 https://www.signupgenius.com/go/20F054BA9A923A1F58-60267412-black#/

Discover Paddle Sports & Equipment Needed

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This interactive, in-person program will provide new paddlers with an overview of various types of boating vessels available, and which type of recreations the vessels are best suited for (flat water or whitewater). Included in this program will be a description of personal equipment options, and the difference between a prepared vs. unprepared paddler.

Fall Shigfest (Run/Walk)

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Hash Trail: What a great park to hash!!! Expect beautiful Fall scenery! You’ll immerse yourself in a kaleidoscope of Fall season foliage as you gleefully hash through Shiggyland. Trail is medium length A to B. Lots of hills and new territory that we never hashed before. We’ll ferry people back to the cars.

Hashing in General: This is a fun run or hike where you will follow a trail of flour not knowing exactly where it will lead. One or more beer/water stops along the way! In hashing you’ll will be running/walking as part of a group. The faster runners will be out ahead looking for flour marks on the ground trying to figure out which way the trail route goes. Sometimes they go the wrong way which allows the slower runners/walkers to catch up and even get ahead. This allows everyone to go at their own pace and stay together as a group.

Dogs: Allowed in Metropark, but a leash is required. Since trail is mostly in the woods it won’t be easy to keep the leash untangled.

Children: Adults only for first-time hashers, since many of us do drink beer. 😋 Otherwise 18+. Be aware due to the nature of the terrain young kids will have difficulty.

On-After: Laff’s Bar & Grill in downtown Germantown, 2 E Center St, Germantown, OH 45327.

https://maps.app.goo.gl/ydxaaSZ1jMqGbwpK8

Parking lot is right off the road. Sign-in and hash!

Cost: $8 for beer drinkers. Otherwise, $4. Free for first time hashers!

Hares: Dah Gimp & 50mm

Things to bring/wear:

  • Whistle you never blow
  • Change of clothes and shoes
  • Your beautifully custom painted DH4 mug or free plastic cup.
  • Camping chair
  • NEW hashers!

For latest changes see our public Facebook event: https://www.facebook.com/share/1RoHwyuWm8/

For more events look here for the latest information: https://www.facebook.com/DaytonHash

DH4 Website: https://daytonhash.com

Questions, concerns, lost or confused? Contact Dah Gimp at 937-305-7016 or [email protected].

Free Yoga | Arcade Arts & Wellness

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This series is free and open to all, but participating in yoga may require Eventbrite pre-registration and on-site waivers.

Doors open 15 minutes before the start of each class for registered participants. Equipment will not be provided. Always consult your physician before beginning any exercise or wellness program.

Series Presented by: The Contemporary Dayton, Friends of the Dayton Arcade, and The Hub Powered by PNC Bank

Free Over 50 Fitness Class

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Be part of Roderer Shoe Center first-ever Over 50 Fitness class with Altered Gym! 🎉
Join us for a fun, supportive workout designed specifically for individuals over 50. 💪
This bodyweight resistance training class focuses on improving balance, maintaining strength, and increasing overall capacity, helping you stay active and confident in your movement at any age.
Whether you’re new to exercise or looking to enhance your fitness routine, this class offers the perfect mix of challenge and encouragement.