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Resounding Applause: The Dayton Philharmonic’s Triumphant Return!

September 20, 2025 By Joshua Stucky

Elegant. Energetic. Celebratory. Last night was one of those nights in which you wish you could bottle the magic. The Dayton Philharmonic‘s kick-off to the 25-26 season was electrifying. Under the direction of Keitaro Harada, the orchestra took on a new kind of vitality, and the audience sat up and listened!

‘Honestly, it was a triumph,’ said Elaine Gounaris. ‘I was floored,’ Brent Johnson stated. ‘It felt amazing,’ said Philharmonic musician John Kurokawa.

Harada knows how to command the musicians, while adding that charisma that any audience would eat with a spoon. His intense, passionate movements are only matched by his occasional nods and smiles assuring us he is having a blast! Harada is a recipient of the Sir Georg Solti Conducting Award and has only begun his 5 year tenure here in Dayton.

In this, his inaugural concert, we got to feel all the feels. (Even the Star Spangled Banner felt more humbling!) ‘The Inextinguishable’ symphony by Carl Nielsen, kicks things off with a round about look at life…and features a personal favorite…the Timpani! It is in that first act that you are captured…and ready for more! (The audience gave a standing ovation at intermission….ummmmm that says it ALL!)

Garrick Ohlsson, joins the Phil in the second half to bring Sergei Rachmaninoff‘s ‘Piano Concerto No. 2’ to perfect life! *Ohlsson is the only American pianist to bring home a gold medal awarded at the International Chopin Piano Competition! Astounding pianist!! It is the Rachmaninoff concerto that you are reminded of the power of music. Strong, soft, loud and moving…emotions run high. (Yes, Celine Dion fans, you are hearing overtones of ‘All By Myself’ in the Adagio…for older fans think Eric Carmen!) I whispered to my hubs ‘There is just something deep in Rachmaninoff’s music….he understood how music feels!’

Finally, let me say that getting to meet and greet with the musicians after the show may seem slight…but to see their pride, and hear their stories is a connection that should continue. BRAVO!!

As one who has loved orchestral music my entire life, I think Dayton is on to something. And, of course, it comes with a big ‘thank you’ for the contribution Neal Gittleman has shown to our community of music, for 30 years! Wow…what a legacy.

Miami County Launces History Pass

September 14, 2025 By Dayton937

The Miami County History Pass takes you on a journey to local museums, historic sites, murals and sculptures. Be inspired, be educated, and become connected to the people, places, and events that make the Miami County such an important part of Ohio – and America’s – history.The Visitors and Convention Bureau (MCVCB) have launched the Miami County History Pass. This pass is a free digital guide designed to take residents and visitors on a journey to local museums, historic sites, murals, and sculptures. Users will be able to check in at participating locations to earn prizes. The pass is part of a broader push to connect people with the region’s deep history through interactive experiences.

With over 30 locations on the pass, this is sure to be a fun and educational way to learn about Miami County history. This is a mobile-exclusive pass that is delivered via text or email. Once an account is created, users can save the pass to their home screen and begin their journey. Participants earn points by checking in at locations, which can then be redeemed for prizes. All Miami County History Trail participants must be 18 years of age or older. Click here to sign up.

A variety of additional events, projects, and programs are being planned throughout Miami County to celebrate America’s sesquicentennial. To stay up to date on what’s happening, please visit the America250 webpage at HomeGrownGreat.com/America-250/ or follow the Miami County Visitors & Convention Bureau on Facebook and Instagram.

“Miami County is proud to celebrate and be part of America250,” said Leiann Stewart, MCVCB executive director. “And we’re excited to help connect people to the stories, places, and traditions that make Miami County such an important part of Ohio – and America’s – history. Happy Trails!”

TIFF Day #9 – 2025

September 12, 2025 By Jonathan McNeal

Hello Dayton937 & NEON Fans,

My last day was short but very sweet. The morning was spent exploring Toronto a bit…and then in the afternoon, Jake and I attended two films – both of which were treats for very different reasons.

My first film of the day is almost certainly getting a big Hollywood release – ROOFMAN (dir: Derek Cianfrance – USA) “Starring Channing Tatum and Oscar nominee Kirsten Dunst, this wildly entertaining drama from Oscar-nominated director Derek Cianfrance (TIFF ’10’s Blue Valentine) tells the real-life story of Jeffrey Manchester, the “Rooftop Robber,” and his efforts to evade capture.” (TIFF Catalog) Though I came away wondering a bit more backstory and motivation, the film ultimately worked for what it set out to do. Tatum and Dunst have incredible chemistry on screen, and the performances are fun and embraceable. It’s a fascinating story with documentary footage at the end to clarify the “reality” of it all, and overall, I was glad to be along for the ride.

My last film of the festival is from a TIFF favorite – Guillermo del Toro – who has played films like PAN’S LABYRINTH and THE SHAPE OF WATER here – FRANKENSTEIN (dir: Guillermo del Toro – USA) “Oscar-winning director Guillermo del Toro’s visually sumptuous adaptation of Mary Shelley’s gothic masterpiece finds Oscar Isaac as the brilliant scientist whose unearthly creation, eerily and ingeniously conjured by Jacob Elordi, blurs the boundaries between life, death, and madness.” (TIFF Catalog). Going into this film, it seemed like it would be ready-made material for del Toro (and perhaps treading old territory)…and that notion isn’t wrong. But I was somehow still surprised at how much I liked this film. The 2.5 hours seemed quite tight, and the production designs (mostly practical and not so much CGI) were stellar. I’ve read a couple reviews that say the film lacked intimacy, and I think they’re terribly wrong. There are some really tender moments, and though quite different than the novel on which it is based, I think it poses many of the same great questions that Shelley had in mind.

So that’s it! 32 Films over 9 Days, great Q&A’s, running into old friends and colleagues, appreciating the community’s embrace of great cinema…Toronto knows how to throw a festival, and TIFF is a special time of year for me. I appreciate you reading about my adventures, and I can’t wait to bring some of these films to our screens at THE NEON.

Thank you so much to Dayton937 for allowing me to use their platform!

My best,
Jonathan

Catch Jonathan’s previous tiff posts:

The illuminated sign on King Street West indica

Day 2 post

Gravity Defied! WSU’s StageWright Flies High, Again!

September 12, 2025 By Joshua Stucky

Packed house. Excellent Performances. Beautiful Evening! Once again, Wright State’s Arts prove their national recognition is well-earned. The StageWright concert at the Levitt Pavilion on September 11th was nothing short of magical. From the bands, to the dancers, to the singers…WSU knows how to perform for the crowd, and they did it again!

Put together by WSU’s Dan Zehringer, the event, now three years old, continues to grow in performances and crowd size. The weather was cooperative as well…cool breezes, cold beers, and a fabulous sunset. Supporters of all things WSU ‘raidered-up’ in the audience to hear their colleagues and friends perform.

The event kicked off with WSU Army and AFROTC color guard, and a rousing trumpet ensemble, which included the National Anthem. Following was a percussion ensemble that got the crowd ‘going!’ Two performances by WSU Dance students stunned the crowd; one with it’s intricate percussion, the other, lively and fun . The Jazz ensemble followed suit, bringing some ‘swing to the thing!’ The event closed with a invigorating version of Wicked’s ‘Defying Gravity!’

Sue Edwards, WSU President, addressed the crowd, reminding them to join the university for all their shows throughout the year. and of course the beloved ArtsGala 2026. Bravo Raiders!! Bravo!

TIFF Day #8 – 2025

September 12, 2025 By Jonathan McNeal

Hello Dayton937 & NEON Fans,

Today was a short day with just 2 films…this is due to things partially slowing down and to the fact that I went to see Lady Gaga tonight at Scotiabank Arena. It’s been a pretty terrific day, but I’m certainly showing signs of slowing down. I have a couple films tomorrow (Friday), and then it’s back to Dayton on Saturday.

My first film of the day was a teen comedy – DRIVER’S ED (dir: Bobby Farrelly – USA) “Bobby Farrelly’s charming Driver’s Ed follows a high school senior (Sam Nivola from The White Lotus) who hits the road to save his relationship with his college-bound girlfriend, with his principal (Molly Shannon) and driving instructor (Kumail Nanjiani) in hot pursuit.” (TIFF Catalog) There are some teen comedies that I really like – CLUELESS, MEAN GIRLS, and EASY A to name a few. This new film from the director of DUMB & DUMBER, THERE’S SOMETHING ABOUT MARY and CHAMPIONS (which we played) is not one of them. Though not without some funny moments, this film had plot holes galore and was mostly not funny. It also seemed quite possible that the screenwriter hadn’t spent much time recently in a high school classroom. There are enough f-bombs and some sweet character chemistry to make this film popular on a streaming service, but I don’t see it being a theatrical hit.
There is no trailer yet for this movie, but here’s a still photo:

My second film for the day will be a big contender this year – HAMNET (dir: Chloé Zhao – United Kingdom) “Academy Award–winning director Chloé Zhao (Nomadland, TIFF ’20 People’s Choice Award) helms this lush and tender drama about William Shakespeare (Paul Mescal) and his family, as seen through the eyes of his thoughtful wife Agnes (a luminous Jessie Buckley).” (TIFF Catalog) Though lovely and deliberate from the start (visually, musically, performance-wise), it took a little while for me to be completely swept away. But I did indeed get swept. Jessie Buckley will get an Oscar nomination (and possibly win), and the film will be recognized in many other categories. Upon walking back to my apartment, I started crying again thinking of a couple scenes…and again upon recounting the film to my boyfriend. Chloé Zhao has made a really impressive film about family, loss and the healing power of art, and I will certainly be seeing it again.

Lady Gaga put on a really terrific show tonight. My boyfriend has been wanting to see her perform live for nearly 20 years…and we had good seats in a very energized arena.

Thanks so much for reading.

My best,

Jonathan

TIFF Day #7 – 2025

September 11, 2025 By Jonathan McNeal

Hello Dayton937 & NEON Fans,

Today was a full day! In addition to the movies and a nice star appearance surprise, my boyfriend flew into town to join me for my last few days here. He and I will see del Toro’s FRANKENSTEIN together on Friday (as well as Lady Gaga in concert on Thursday night)…but otherwise, he’s here to enjoy the city while I’m screening films.

It’s my rule that if I don’t watch a movie from beginning to end, I can’t include it here in my TIFF blog. But I’m going to make a bit of an exception. For my first movie today, there were only 2 people in line when I arrived – so I knew it wasn’t going to be hard to get a spot…so I popped into POETIC LICENSE for about 20 minutes. This is the directorial debut from Maude Apatow, and from what I saw, it was pretty charming.

My first film of the day was a touching lesbian drama based on a true story – JULIAN (dir: Cato Kusters – Belgium, Netherlands) “Two women’s unique campaign for marriage equality inspires a poignant screen love story by director Cato Kusters.” Fleur & Julian decide to get married…and in an effort to bring more awareness to same-sex marriage, they decide to get married in all 22 countries that allow it. Unfortunately, Julian it’s revealed that Julian isn’t well…and this story hops back and forth in time to tell their story. It’s beautifully made and certainly unique. I think it will find a lot of success on the festival circuit.

Next up was a film with Jodie Foster in the lead – Speaking French! – A PRIVATE LIFE (dir: Rebecca Zlotowski – France) “Oscar winner Jodie Foster stars in this slyly comic psychological thriller from director Rebecca Zlotowski (TIFF ’22’s Other People’s Children), in which a suspicious death yields a series of twists that lead back to old grievances — and maybe even to past lives.” (TIFF Catalog) This film is fun, twisty, and full of surprises…until it loses a bit of steam. Jodie is really wonderful, but the last 15 minutes were like someone snuffed the candle. With Sony Classics pushing this title into 2026, I suspect they’ve lost hope of much award-season play/recognition.
There’s no trailer for this film yet, but here’s a clip:

I quickly made it to my next screening (which was largely on my list because of Tilda Swinton) – BALLAD OF A SMALL PLAYER (dir: Edward Berger – United Kingdom) “This seductive character study from Oscar-winning director Edward Berger (TIFF ’24’s Conclave), stars Oscar nominee Colin Farrell as an obsessive travelling gambler and Oscar winner Tilda Swinton as the dogged detective determined to track him down.” (TIFF catalog) At first glance, this blaring and colorful film that’s full of excess seems nearly impossible to have come from the same director who brought us CONCLAVE – but interestingly, there are some similarities. The score (also by Volker Bertelmann) hits some similar notes….and there’s an embrace of ritual (despite the chaos) at its core. Set mostly in Macau (of which the producer said, “puts Vegas to shame”), this film is visually stunning. And of course Swinton brings a fresh energy to the film. Overall, I liked it…but that was partially heightened due to the Q&A. This film merits the big screen…but I don’t think Netflix will push to really get it out.

My next film was a real treat – CALLE MÁLAGA (dir: Maryam Touzani – Morocco, France, Spain, Germany, Belgium) “Senior Maria (Carmen Maura) finds herself at odds with her adult daughter who has begun, without first consulting her mother, the process of selling the family home in Tangier where Maria still lives.” (TIFF catalog) Since the late 80’s, when I first saw WOMEN ON THE VERGE OF A NERVOUS BREAKDOWN (on VHS), I’ve been in love with Carmen Maura. Since this wasn’t the first screening of this film, and because it was at Scotiabank (a multiplex), I didn’t think Maura would attend…but she did, and it was a treat. This film is one of my favorites of the fest. It’s very fresh, and it comes with equal parts comedy and heartbreak. Maura, who will soon be 80, announced that she’ll soon likely retire. This film is special, and seeing her in person was incredible.
There’s no trailer yet for this film…but here’s a still photo from the film and a photo I snapped (lighting was not good – so it’s pretty grainy).

My next movie was another from the “Midnight Madness” section…and it was more than I bargained for – F*!K MY SON! (dir: Todd Rohal – USA) “Todd Rohal (The Catechism Cataclysm, Uncle Kent 2) violates all boundaries of good taste in this gleefully profane adaptation of Johnny Ryan’s underground comic about a decrepit mother (Robert Longstreet) who will stop at nothing to get her mutant son (Steve Little) laid.” (TIFF catalog) This movie started out with so much promise. The “pre-show” was hysterical, the introduction of characters had a certain John Waters-vibe…it was irreverent, campy and in terrible taste. There were certainly some big laughs (and the audience was all in), but then it became revolting and offensive. Sure – that’s exactly what it wanted to be – but it wasn’t for me.
There’s no trailer yet for this one, but here’s a still photo:

Only 2 more days of TIFF left for me.

Thanks for reading,

Jonathan

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.

Volunteeers Needed For Feast of Giving to Return

September 9, 2025 By Dayton937

The Feast of Giving, Dayton’s beloved Thanksgiving dinner, will return to the Dayton Convention Center on Thursday, November 27, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM. Organizers are calling for up to 400 volunteers to help revive this cherished tradition and serve thousands in the Dayton community.

For 50 years beginning in 1969, the Feast of Giving provided warm Thanksgiving meals and fellowship to residents across the region. After a pause in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the event is being brought back by local leaders Jason Woodard and Shane Connor, handpicked by long-time stewards Dr. Steve Levitt and Dr. Tom Olsen.

A dedicated working group has been planning the event for over nine months, but many more hands are needed—both on Thanksgiving Day and in the days leading up to it. Michelle Steinbrugge, Volunteer Committee Lead, shared:

“One of the best things about the Feast of Giving is how it brings people from across the community together. We’re excited to welcome both past volunteers and new faces to the next chapter of this unique Dayton tradition.”

Those interested in volunteering can sign up at feastofgiving.org. Shifts will be assigned on a first-come, first-served basis, with notifications beginning in early October.

The Feast of Giving is a component fund of The Dayton Foundation. Businesses or individuals wishing to support the event—either financially or through in-kind donations—are encouraged to reach out via email at [email protected] or visit the website

Dayton at Work and Play: La Poblanita

September 8, 2025 By Bill Franz

La Poblanita (470 N Springboro Pike)

I was running errands near the Dayton Mall and decided to stop for lunch at La Poblanita, a restaurant in the rear of this grocery store. I had some questions about the menu, and my waitress asked Ismael, one of the owners, to help me out.

I learned that La Poblanita is a family business, run by Ismael, his brother, his sister and her husband. A few months ago, they started this grocery store and the attached restaurant. If you’ve ever been involved with starting a business, you’d know what a monumental undertaking that is – starting two very different businesses – a grocery store and a restaurant – at the same time.

Ismael told me that they wanted the restaurant to offer authentic food from Mexico, and a few items from Ecuador and Venezuela – the type of food they cook for themselves at home. “Try this salsa” he said. “Taste the roasted peppers and tomatoes. It’s a salsa like we have at home.”

I ordered a light lunch – volcanes, a corn tortilla toasted on the grill with cheese, chicken and guacamole. Then Ismael brought me three small glasses of his Aguas Frescas, which he said they make from scratch. One was horchata, a sweet drink made from rice and cinnamon. One was Hibiscus water. The third was tamarind water. I especially like horchata.

When my wife and I visited the restaurant for dinner recently I skipped the horchata and tried one of their Mexican beers instead. I had a very large sandwich called torta. It was stuffed with marinated pork, beans, cheese onions, pineapple and a few other things. Served with jalapenos and two of their homemade sauces.

My wife had pollo con mole – chicken topped with a delicious mole sauce.

Prices are reasonable, so it’s a good place to try some new types of dishes without wrecking the budget. We’ll be back.

TIFF Day #4 – 2025

September 7, 2025 By Jonathan McNeal

Hello Dayton937 & NEON Fans!

It’s only Day #4, and I’m starting to drag a bit. That said, I’ve now seen 15 films, met up with old friends, rubbed elbows with some big wigs, written a daily blog, kept up with NEON business from home and hobnobbed with some colleagues…all in just 4 days…so it’s no surprise. When 15 minute naps are possible, I take them.

The first little photo on this blog entry is a brilliant marketing effort for my first film of the day – DEAD MAN’S WIRE (dir: Gus Van Sant – USA) “Featuring captivating performances from Bill Skarsgård, Dacre Montgomery, Colman Domingo, and Al Pacino, Gus Van Sant’s latest recreates the strange, fascinating true story of the 1977 kidnapping that made aspiring Indianapolis entrepreneur Tony Kiritsis into an eccentric outlaw folk hero.” (TIFF catalog). It’s so hard not to contextualize this film into right now with so many people embracing Luigi Mangione – as this is a story of a man who felt wronged by a mortgage company and their capitalistic greed. I did not know the story of Tony Kiritsis, but this film and its character’s motives speaks greatly to the anti-establishment, and it feels like an homage to films from the 70’s (and it works on a lot of levels). Though I initially questioned some of Bill Skarsgård’s choices as too performative and over-the-top, I eventually bought into them as part of true character choices. It’s a tight film, and I think it will find distribution.
There’s no trailer yet…just this still:

My next film was my first documentary of the festival – MODERN WHORE (dir: Nicole Bazuin – Canada) “Andrea Werhun and Nicole Bazuin challenge toxic misconceptions about sex work and sex workers with great audacity and high style.” (TIFF catalog). I agreed with so much of what this film had to say, but I found its style and form as trying too hard – with campy aesthetics and too much “winking” at the camera. It seems like it will be well-suited for clickbait on a streaming service…and maybe that’s where it’s message really needs to be heard.

My next film before my first small break of the day was & SONS (dir: Pablo Trapero – United Kingdom, Canada) “This dramatic adaptation of David Gilbert’s 2013 novel, co-written by Oscar-winner Sarah Polley and directed by Pablo Trapero (TIFF ’15’s The Clan), stars Bill Nighy as a reclusive literary superstar who calls his sons home for an unbelievable announcement.” (TIFF catalog). I adore Bill Nighy and Imelda Staunton, so I had to check out this film. I don’t want to give away too much of this film – as the surprise announcement that Nighy’s character makes is a stunning…and leads to some debate (within the film and the audience in the lobby). I’m wondering how this film will be marketed…will they reveal this announcement or try to keep it under wraps? At the end of the day, Nighy is a big (though physically shrinking) alcoholic who commands a room when he has something to say. I found his character off-putting – but the performance quite good. That said, it’s Staunton who is the soul of the film. She has the best moments and will break your heart. There’s one climatic-like scene that turned me off a bit…but I was also terribly tired during this film…so I’m going to be a bit forgiving. It’s well done overall.
There is no trailer yet, just a still photo:

My last film of the day was from Steven Soderbergh – who works as well in the indie world as big Hollywood – THE CHRISTOPHERS (dir: Steven Soderbergh – United Kingdom) “The great Ian McKellen and I May Destroy You’s Michaela Coel make a brilliant pairing in Oscar winner Steven Soderbergh’s incisively witty chamber comedy about art, commerce, and avarice.” (TIFF catalog) With a very strong screenplay and incredible central performances from McKellen and Michaela Coel, this whip-smart film is as funny as it is touching. Though McKellen couldn’t attend due to doctors’ orders, he sent along a personal greeting to the TIFF audience…as we were the very first to see the finished film. The Q&A following the film with Soderbergh, Coel and writer Ed Solomon and actor Jessica Gunning was fantastic. I’m 15 films deep at this point, and THE CHRISTOPHERS is my personal favorite.
There’s no trailer yet, just a still:

An add-on of THE TESTAMENT OF ANN LEE is happening tomorrow morning (as I had hoped), so I need to make my way out early to get a spot in line.

Thanks so much for reading,

Jonathan

Catch Jonathan’s previous tiff posts:

The illuminated sign on King Street West indicates the start of the festival!

Day 1 post

Day2 post

Day 3 post

7 Oktoberfest Celebrations

September 1, 2025 By Lisa Grigsby

Oktoberfest, the world-famous German festival best known for its overflowing steins, lively music, and hearty Bavarian fare, is something of a seasonal trickster. Despite its name, the festivities kick off in September! Why? Tradition and weather. The original Oktoberfest began in 1810 as a royal wedding celebration in Munich for Crown Prince Ludwig and Princess Therese. Over the years, it evolved into an annual folk festival featuring parades, horse races, and, of course, beer. To take advantage of longer days and milder weather, organizers gradually shifted the start date into late September, ensuring revelers could enjoy outdoor tents and beer gardens without shivering through chilly October nights. So while it ends in early October, most of the merrymaking actually happens in September—a perfect excuse to raise a glass before autumn truly sets in. Prost to a festival that’s as much about community and culture as it is about clinking mugs!

Local Oktoberfest Celebrations:

Sept 5 @ 6:00 pm – 11:59 pm

Sept 6 @ noon – 11:59 pm

Sister Cities of Vandalia Oktoberfest

Vandalia Sports Complex
1101 Stonequarry Road, Vandalia

Sept 5 @ 6:00 pm – 11:59 pm

Sept 6 @ 11:00 am – 11:59 pm

𝗢𝗸𝘁𝗼𝗯𝗲𝗿𝗳𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝗦𝗽𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴𝗯𝗼𝗿𝗼 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟱

Springboro United Church of Christ
5 West Mill Street, Springboro

Looking for a fun, unforgettable local event this fall? Don’t miss Oktoberfest Springboro—a must-attend celebration at Springboro United Church of Christ, happening Friday and Saturday, September 5–6!

𝙃𝙚𝙧𝙚’𝙨 𝙬𝙝𝙖𝙩’𝙨 𝙤𝙣 𝙩𝙖𝙥:

Classic beer hall favorites

German-style food & live music

Family-friendly attractions and community fun

Festival atmosphere right in the heart of Springboro

This event captures community spirit, great food, and shared experiences. Whether you’re a longtime local or just passing through, Oktoberfest Springboro feels warm, authentic, and full of heart.

Sept 13 @ 12:00 pm – 9:00 pm

Oktoberfest

Branch & Bone Artisan Ales
905 Wayne Ave, Dayton

Sept 26 @ 11:00 am – 1:30 pm

Lederhosen Lunch @ DAI Oktoberfest

The Dayton Art Institute
456 Belmonte Park N, Dayton

Friday, Sept 26, 7–11 pm

Oktoberfest Preview Party 2025

Dayton Art Institute
456 Belmonte Park North, Dayton

Sept 27 @ 12:00 pm – 11:00 pm
Sept 28 @ 12:00 pm – 7:00 pm

DAI Oktoberfest

The Dayton Art Institute
456 Belmonte Park N, Dayton

The DAI Oktoberfest features all the things the community has come to love about the festival and some new additions for 2025!

Advance Tickets: $12 adults; $8 seniors (60+) & youth (7-18); $20 Weekend Pass
At the Gate: $15 adults; $10 seniors & youth; $25 Weekend Pass
Children 6 and under admitted free. Keep the party going by purchasing a Weekend Pass! The Weekend Pass allows you access to the festival all day Saturday and all day Sunday! *Preview Party not included in the price of a Weekend Pass.Greater Dayton RTA will also provide free shuttles from downtown Dayton to Oktoberfest on Saturday and Sunday, as well as to Friday’s Lederhosen Lunch.*Oktoberfest is held rain or shine. No refunds. No rain checks.*

October 2025

Oct 3 @ 6:00 pm – 11:59 pm

Oct 4 @ 10am – 11:59 pm

Oct 5 8am – 8pm

Minster Oktoberfest

Minster Oktoberfest
E. 4th St, Minster

The MINSTER OKTOBERFEST was started in 1975 by the JC’s (The Minster Journeyman’s Club) and the Kiwanis (Minster Service Club). It is estimated that over 80,000 people come to Minster during the weekend of Oktoberfest.

This fun filled festival provides delights for all. Come sing and dance to GERMAN MUSIC . Taste the hearty GERMAN FOODS . Watch the wonderful OKTOBERFEST PARADE featuring numerous colorful floats, area marching bands and celebrities. See the many events taking place in the Gazebo and the Spass Platz. Take part in the BEER TRAY RELAY , the OKTOBERFEST 10K RUN , and numerous other games. Visit the large ARTS & CRAFTS area.

Oct 4 @ 10:00 am – 11:00 pm

OKTOBERFISH

Little Fish Brewing Co.
116 Webster Street, Dayton

Join us October 4 for this year’s OKTOBERFISH FESTIVITIES!

With German-inspired food, drinks, games, music, and COSTUMES, this year will be the most fun yet!

Once again, we will have live traditional German folk tunes by Die Musikmeisters of Appalachia from 3:00PM-6:30PM, interlaced with a German-inspired playlist ALL DAY while the band is not playing!

-The Stump Game! The trademarked hammer & nail drinking game. Check out this video for an example: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kfWKTTlv-j8
-Stein Hoist Competition at 6:00PM! Test your arm strength against your fellow beer enthusiasts! Check out this video for an example: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3H1gFD4N_9c

We will have, at a minimum, these lagers & German-style ales:
-Abseil Pilsner
-Dimple Stein Czech Dark Lager
-Karmanfest Malty Amber Festbier
-Ohio Weizen 100% Ohio-Grown Hefeweizen
-PawPaw Weizen German-Style Hefeweizen w/ PawPaw Fruit

FOODS
Both traditional and inspired German fare! Menu by Executive Chef Zach Morgan coming soon- expect to see small snacks, big meals, and HUGE shareables!

GARB
Our staff will be decked out in traditional Oktoberfest costumes, and you should too! While not required, it’s undeniable that costumes always make these events more!

Oct 10 @ 6:00 – 9:00 pm
Oct 11 @ 11:00 am – 9:00 pm

Lebanon Oktoberfest

mulberry street plaza
Lebanon
free to attend

Prepping for Toronto International Film Fest – 2025

August 30, 2025 By Jonathan McNeal

Hello Dayton937!

It’s hard to believe that Labor Day is here…and it will soon be time to head to Toronto again for the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF). The line-up at TIFF is extensive – “209 features, 6 Classics, 10 Primetime films, and 66 shorts” – so I have a lot of decisions to make. The pass that I have will allow me to see dozens of dozens of films with other press and industry folks (these are no-frills screenings…just the movies plus lots of networking and movie-talk while waiting in lines). In addition, I will get 10 tickets to public screenings – the events that get media attention – red carpets, big stars, Q&A’s, etc.

I’ve been scanning the line-up and making some initial picks, but I definitely leave room for some word-of-mouth and industry buzz to guide my decisions once I’m in Canada.

On this side of the festival, here are a few titles I’m looking forward to seeing:

HAMNET is the new film directed by Academy Award winner Chloé Zhao (NOMADLAND). I love the cast, and the film looks lovely.

ETERNITY looks like it will be fun. I love the entire cast.

Richard Linklater’s NOUVELLE VAGUE – about the making of the French New Wave classic BREATHLESS (Linklater has 2 films at the festival…clearly a busy man).

There are a handful of films playing at TIFF that I’ve already seen – like ELEANOR THE GREAT (starring National Treasure June Squibb – opening Sept. 26 at THE NEON), BLUE MOON (Richard Linklater’s fantastic film starring Ethan Hawke, Margaret Qualley, Andrew Scott & Bobby Cannavale – which will be playing at the OUT HERE DAYTON Film Fest on October 10), and NUREMBERG (a fascinating courtroom drama about the Nuremberg trials starring Rami Malek, Russell Crowe and Michael Shannon – certain to be a NEON fan favorite this Fall). Because I won’t be screening them at the festival, I won’t be “reviewing” them in this blog per se…but I urge you to find out more about each of them.

Starting Thursday, Sept. 4, I’ll keep track of each film that I see at TIFF in this daily blog. I appreciate Dayton937 for allowing me to use this platform to keep my thoughts in order and stay in touch with NEON fans. www.dayton937.com/tag/tiff

Thanks for reading!

Jonathan McNeal, manager of THE NEON

Domino’s Pizza’s “Best Deal Ever” Promo Happening Now

August 25, 2025 By Dayton937

Domino’s Pizza Inc. is turning up the heat as summer winds down with the return of its “Best Deal Ever” promotion. For a limited time, starting on Aug. 25, customers can devour any pizza with any toppings for $9.99 each.

Domino's "Best Deal Ever" offer is back for a limited time, starting on Aug. 25.

“Summer may be wrapping up, but the fun doesn’t have to,” said Kate Trumbull, Domino’s executive vice president – chief marketing officer. “We’re bringing back our hottest deal yet so customers can enjoy all sorts of delicious pizza combinations at a great value. Whether you’re preparing to send the kids back to school, hosting a Labor Day party or getting ready for football season, Domino’s has your meals covered with our ‘Best Deal Ever.'”

Domino’s $9.99 deal includes Hand Tossed, Handmade Pan, New York Style, Gluten Free and Crunchy Thin Crust, as well as an assortment of sauces and toppings. Customers can upgrade to Parmesan Stuffed Crust for an additional charge.

To order or find the nearest store, visit www.dominos.com or use Domino’s mobile app.

Tattoo Fest Dayton features over 100 World Renowned Tattoo Artists

August 22, 2025 By Dayton937

Tattoo Fest Dayton is here for a weekend of tattoo artists all coming together to tattoo the public and celebrate the art of tattooing! The Festival will host over 125 tattoo artists and vendors exhibiting their work and competing in contests with over 20 categories. Competitions will be for healed tattoos as well as competitions each day for tattoos done at the Festival.

Tattoo Fest Dayton is excited to add a new chapter to the legacy of the art and tattoo culture of Dayton, while celebrating some of the best local tattooers, as well as bringing returning and new artists to showcase the amazing city.

The organizers believe that everyone deserves to experience the incredible artistry and vibrant culture of the tattoo community. To make this possible and to celebrate with all of you, they’ve decided to make admission to Tattoo Fest Dayton completely FREE for all three days.

Nationally and Internationally recognized tattoo artists will be set up for the public to browse and collect tattoos! Reality tattoo stars from some of your favorite tattoo reality television shows will be on hand tattooing and able to be seen working their craft live, in front of attendees of the festival. Artists have already started booking in advance, but plenty will be accepting walk up tattoos. To find your perfect artist, go to https://daytontattoofestival.com/artists/attending-artists/. Do it quickly before they are booked solid for the entire weekend.

They will also be hosting the Worst Tattoo Competition, sponsored by Removery – the World’s Largest Tattoo Removal Company. A free to enter competition, attendees can show off bad or regrettable tattoos they have, with the winner receiving a free removal package from Removery, who has over 150 locations in the United States, Canada, and Australia.

The Festival also features vendors ranging from oddities to clothing and makers of all kinds. This event is open to the public and family friendly.

Tattoo Fest has organized events in over 20 cities across the United States in our first four years, and has 13 total Festivals scheduled for this year. Tattoo Fest Dayton is presented by Tattoo Fest and the Explorer Tattoo Conference – the world’s largest educational tattoo conference.

Dayton Tatoo Fest

Dayton Convention Center

119 E 5th St, Dayton, OH 45402-2405

Friday: 12PM – 10PM
Saturday: 11AM – 10PM
Sunday: 11AM – 7PM

Dayton At Work and Play: Duohome

August 18, 2025 By Bill Franz

I find that stores run by artists tend to be interesting places, so after dropping my art off at the Springfield Museum of Art I visited Duohome (149 W Jefferson St, Springfield, OH).

I first visited the building back in 2016 to tour the art studio of Vicki Rulli and her husband Tom Heaphey. They bought an old industrial building in Springfield and then opened Itinerant Studio. It is a production art studio that sells art to designers, hotels and boutiques all over the world. Their work is beautiful. The black & white photo shows Tom and Vicki back in 2016.

During the pandemic the couple started renovating areas of the building that hadn’t been used. Two years ago, they opened Duohome. Vicki was there and I asked her to describe the store and how it came about.

“We’ve been selling to the design trade since 2008 with showrooms in New York, High Point and Atlanta. The brands we’re selling here have been our friends and colleagues, people selling alongside us at the same shows. We think of this as a “Lifestyle Store” and it’s modeled after how we live our own life.”

“Every single product that comes into DUO HOME must follow our “Four Goods”. They must be made by a good company that treats their employees well, have intentional and good design, be made with good materials, and have a good story to tell.”

Then Vicki started telling me some of the good stories of some of her products – about the employee-owned Ohio furniture company and the third-generation Danish company and others. I was reminded of my friend London Coe who sells chocolate from all over the world. If I ask about a chocolate bar, she can tell me about the person who made it and how it was made and the history of chocolate in that part of the world.

So, when you’re headed to Springfield to see the members’ show at the Springfield Museum of Art, check out Duohome and let Vicki show you some good products with good stories.

Dayton at Work & Play: Busy Beaver Arts & Crafts

August 11, 2025 By Bill Franz

Visit to Busy Beaver Arts & Crafts (3445 Dayton Xenia Road)

A friend recently suggested I visit this store. “I went to the store looking for buttons” she told me. “They had quite a few buttons and everything you’d need for any craft project – ribbons, beads, yarn, patterns, sequins, material, and stained glass supplies. They also have stained glass classes with a one year wait list.”

I remembered I’d visited the shop about eight years ago at the suggestion of an artist friend. She thought I’d find all the art supplies photogenic.

When I visited for the first time, “the yarn lady” showed me around. “This is the ribbon room. Here is the counted cross stitch room. Here are some of our yarns, including a lot of novelty yarns. These are our miniatures, and everything you need to build your own doll house. These are supplies for people who fix clocks, and here are quilting supplies. Our art supplies department is over there.”

I remember that the store was so packed that it was hard to back up far enough to get a photo. Now I can use my iPhone, which lets me take closer photos.

When I visited this time, I met Danielle and asked her if anything had changed since I last visited. She said that their fused glass classes and fused glass supplies were new. As we talked, Danielle was working on a fused glass craft. She said she’d paint a face on each of the small pieces she was cutting out. Then, after the pieces were fused, she’d glue them onto small magnets.

Danielle also told me the store had a new owner – the daughter of the couple who started the business over 30 years ago. She came back to Dayton over ten years ago to work in the business and then recently became the owner.