Dayton937

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

Archives for July 2025

Celebrate the 150th Birthday of Alice Dunbar Nelson

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Alice Dunbar Nelson was an influential African American poet, author, and activist whose work addressed themes of race, gender, and social justice. Born in New Orleans, Louisiana, she emerged as a prominent voice of the Harlem Renaissance, publishing poetry, short stories, and essays that highlighted the struggles and resilience of Black women.

Dunbar Nelson was also deeply involved in social activism, advocating for civil rights and women’s suffrage throughout her life. She was married to the famous poet Paul Laurence Dunbar, and after his death, she continued to promote his work while forging her own literary path. Her legacy is celebrated for its contributions to American literature and its enduring impact on social movements.
This summer marks the 150th anniversary of Alice’s birth, and so the Paul Laurence Dunbar House Historic Site is proud to present two major events celebrating her life and achievements:
  • Beyond Paul: Alice Dunbar Nelson’s Life and Legacy – an exhibit of Alice’s writings and her collected works in partnership with the University of Delaware from July 19 to September 28, 2025.
  • “An Afternoon with Alice” – Alice’s legacy will be honored with a presentation by Ms. Karsyn Williams, featuring poetry and fascinating insights about Alice’s life.  July 19 from 2:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
This event marks the opening day of a new exhibit showcasing items from the Alice Dunbar Nelson collection, and it is made possible through a collaborative effort between the University of Delaware, the University of Dayton, the National Park Service, and the Paul Laurence Dunbar House. Don’t miss this opportunity to celebrate the life and work of a remarkable figure in American history! This event is free and open to the public.
Paul Laurence Dunbar House Historic Site
219 N Paul Laurence Dunbar St,
Dayton, OH 45402
Open Friday – Sunday, from 10 am to 4pm Tours take place throughout the day and admission is free. Last tour of the day is at 3:30pm. You can start your visit at the visitor center entrance located on Edison Street (just around the corner from the Dunbar house) where you can view a movie and see artifacts and exhibits dedicated to the life of Dunbar

Tommy Davidson Returns to Funny Bone

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Tommy Davidson’s exceptional range – from stand-up comedy and acting to versatile music accomplishments – have earned him a reputation as an extraordinary performer. Best known as one of the stars of the hit television show In Living Color, his visibility has allowed him to become a household name known for his innovative talent. Davidson started his career as a standup comedian in Washington DC, earning an ardent following. Tommy and Jamie Foxx, Jim Carrey, Damon Wayans and David Alan Grier — the uniquely talented cast of the most adventurous primetime variety show on television, In Living Color (1990), made TV history.

 

The iconic sketch show was recently honored with the ‘Groundbreaking Award” by TV Land in a star-studded salute guided by Whoopi Goldberg and this year celebrates its 25th anniversary.
Tommy’s film debut started opposite Halle Berry in Strictly Business. A range of feature film roles from Spike Lee’s Bamboozled, where he received acclaim and praise for his turn as “Womack/Sleep ‘N Eats,” to Juwanna Mann (Morgan Creek) and the pivotal cameo in Jim Carrey’s Ace Ventura II: When Nature Calls, followed. Recently, he starred in the landmark, award-winning documentary, I Am Comic, opposite Tim Allen, Lewis Black and in the feature doc, Dying Laughing, alongside Jamie Foxx, Kevin Hart, Amy Schumer and Sarah Silverman.

His elasticity as a performer is seen on the small screen with standout guest stints ranging from MTV’s Wild n’ Out with Nick Cannon, BET’s Real Husbands of Hollywood opposite Kevin Hart, to ABC’s Celebrity Wife Swap. As a voice artist, America fell in love with Tommy as the star of Will Smith’s animated series, Youngin’s, Disney’s animated series The Proud Family, and alongside Michael Jai White in the critically-lauded spoof comedy, Black Dynamite (Adult Swim) as the character ‘Cream Corn.’
Tommy spent 3 years hosting ABC’s Vacation Creation, where the show grants once-in-a-lifetime cruises to deserving families who would never be able to afford them. Tommy’s stand up dates always sell out. He currently headlines “Off Color Comedy Tour” with Keenan Ivory Wayans, Shawn Wayans and David Alan Grier prompting all to ask,” Is ILC coming back?” He is also currently touring with Mike Epps and Martin Lawrence. In February 2020, Tommy released a personal memoir titled “Living in Color: What’s Funny about Me” which recounts his personal triumphs as having been abandoned as in infant, adopted and raised by a Caucasian family in Washington DC during the Civil Rights Movement. Also his sustainability in Hollywood and his experience with Race in the US. With Disney+ recently announcing the 2nd season of The Proud Family.

Burger King’s New BBQ Brisket Whopper

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Photo courtesy Markie_Devo

Burger King unveiled a new burger innovation as part of its “Whopper by You” platform that allows the consumer to have a hand in shaping the menu. The first creation from its new platform is the BBQ Brisket Whopper — a smoky, savory twist on the flame-grilled classic, inspired by what fans of the Whopper have been asking for across the country, Burger King said.

“As the brand known for ‘Have It Your Way,’ we want to continue letting our guests tell us what they want, and when it comes to our iconic Whopper sandwich, they have a lot of ideas,” said Joel Yashinsky, chief marketing officer of Burger King US&C. “We’re excited to kick off the ‘Whopper by You’ platform with the BBQ Brisket Whopper, a flavor profile that our guests requested, and we are very excited to answer with an overwhelming, ‘You Rule!’”

The BBQ Brisket Whopper features slow-cooked BBQ brisket, crispy onions, American cheese and a sweet & golden BBQ sauce, all piled on a quarter-pound, flame-grilled beef patty with lettuce, tomato and mayo.

Additionally, for the first time, Burger King is offering its new Whopper as a Whopper Jr. for those seeking the same flavor benefits at a smaller scale.

Beginning on July 15, consumers can submit their dream Whopper creations on the Burger King website. With their first “Whopper by You” creation, guests can redeem a special Royal Perks offer assigned at random, ranging from a $0.01 Whopper sandwich each week for a year to free burgers with a purchase, and other deals.

“As the brand known for ‘Have It Your Way,’ we want to continue letting our guests tell us what they want, and when it comes to our iconic Whopper sandwich, they have a lot of ideas,” said Joel Yashinsky, chief marketing officer of Burger King US&C. “We’re excited to kick off the ‘Whopper by You’ platform with the BBQ Brisket Whopper, a flavor profile that our guests requested, and we are very excited to answer with an overwhelming, ‘You Rule!’”

McCoy on Movies: Superman

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James Gunn brings humanity to an alien character with DC Universe lead film reboot

SUPERMAN

The most controversial movie of the year focuses on the choices we make as humans, what makes us human, fear of those different than us and takes aim at the evil corporations and billionaires do under the guise of helping society all while showing a person of color as one of the smartest on earth.
 

Go figure.

The first official cinematic entry in James Gunn’s tenure as the head of the DC Comics Cinematic Universe, SUPERMAN – the 2025 version – can be viewed in one of two ways: (1) This is a super “woke” (which ironically is the opposite of “asleep,” but that’s another conversation entirely …) film where an alien makes us look at our fear of those different from us, how they could take over and showing us this unrealistic view where all these DEI hires have to “save us” from evil, white, male billionaires …


OR

(2) This is a multi-layered film that, while not perfect, makes a character that has been portrayed historically as having one weakness as being vulnerable – not just to kryptonite, but a world that doesn’t understand him and at times, fears him. This is a film that likewise shows the true danger of letting the rich run wild with unchecked power, how propaganda can be near fatal to thought, progression and society … All while throwing in a mix of humor, secondary characters that actually contribute significantly to a story and a lead perfectly cast for his role.

Smart fans will take the latter approach.

RATING:

 

Troni Brothers Pizza Presents Lil’ Chefs Pizza Making

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Kids out of school and already saying “I’m bored”? Troni’s in Kettering has got just the thing.
Join them for their first-ever Lil’ Chefs Pizza-Making Event at Troni Bros Pizza!
Here’s what’s included for just $5.00 per child:
– Make your own personal pizza (we’ll bake it and serve it)
– Includes a kids drink
– Face painting
– Photo booth fun
– Coloring pages and activities
– Dine-in experience to enjoy their creation
Two time slots available (20 kids per session):
– 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM
– 3:00 PM to 4:00 PM
Date: Saturday, July 26th
Ages: 12 and under
🎟️ Tickets can be purchased in-store or online at Troni Bros Kettering Clover Online Ordering Page from their website. Spots are limited and will go quickly, so don’t wait!
Troni Brothers Pizza
4654 Wilmington Pike
Kettering, OH 45440
937-259-8877

Try Mountain Biking

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Want to try mountain biking? Come out to the MetroParks Mountain Biking Area (MoMBA) and borrow one of our bikes to ride for a lap or two. Bikes are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Riders younger than 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Helmets are required and are provided with the bikes. **Weather Dependent.**

This program is FREE to the public. Registration is requested, but walk-ins are welcome:

Lily’s Tea Party

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These hatters are going mad with all sorts of wonders! $10 per ticket assures your safe passage into Wonderland and endless access to our fancy Tea Bar!!
You can also purchase small plates, special cocktails (both with and without alcohol) and some THC drinks that would please even the Red Queen! COSTUMES NOT REQUIRED, BUT HIGHLY SUGGESTED.
We love a theme . Dont you?
Follow the link below and grab your tickets! A very merry unbirthday to you! And me! And you, too!
937-723-7637

Industrial Strength Bluegrass Summer Festival

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The Industrial Strength Bluegrass Summer Festival is a three-day music celebration, highlighting the best of bluegrass, folk, and Americana. Hosted at Clifton Opera House in Xenia, this festival is a must-attend event for music enthusiasts, musicians, and fans of traditional Appalachian sounds.

Featuring world-class bluegrass artists and legendary performers, the festival lineup includes instrumental showcases, jam sessions, and performances from local and national talent. Guests can participate in interactive bluegrass workshops, where musicians teach banjo, fiddle, guitar, and mandolin techniques in hands-on demonstrations.

In addition to the music, attendees can enjoy food trucks offering Southern-inspired cuisine, including smoked brisket, fried green tomatoes, cornbread, and sweet tea. Visitors can also browse craft booths selling handmade instruments, folk art, and country-style home décor.

The festival culminates with an open jam session, inviting musicians of all skill levels to join in and play alongside bluegrass greats. With its rich musical history and welcoming atmosphere, the Industrial Strength Bluegrass Festival is a true celebration of Appalachian culture.

What To Do There:

  • Listen to live bluegrass performances from top artists.
  • Participate in banjo, mandolin, and fiddle workshops.
  • Enjoy Southern-style food and drinks.
  • Explore artisan booths selling handmade goods and instruments.
  • Experience an open jam session with fellow musicians.

What People Like About It:

  • The incredible lineup of bluegrass and folk artists.
  • The opportunity to learn from musicians in interactive workshops.
  • The friendly and welcoming festival atmosphere.
  • The delicious Southern-style food offerings.
  • The community-driven jam sessions.

6 New Menu Additons at The Winds Cafe

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The Winds Cafe in Yellow Springs is sharing this sneak peak of their new summer menu and it is chocked full of local vegetables. “We are so lucky to have wonderful farmers (La Brisa Farm @labrisafarm , Peach Mountain Organic, Patchwork Gardens @patchworkgardensdyt  Orion Organics @orionorganics) to provide us with magnificent veggies to create with.”
Chilled Five Heap Noodles with Chicken

Tomato Bruschetta

“Esploso Estate”

Tuscan Bread Salad

Grilled Long Bone Duroc Pork Chop

Insalata Caprese

The Winds invites you experience the joy of summer through these produce prominent delectable dishes.
Along with the new menu, there is new art, with these intriguing and special pieces by @amykollaranderson hanging in the café. Their use of texture is really wonderful and a must see!

Art by Amy Kollar Anderson

215 Xenia Ave
Yellow Springs, OH

937-767-1144

 

Lunch 12:00pm-3:00pm Tuesdays – Saturdays
Dinner 4:00pm – 9:00pm Tuesdays – Saturdays
After Hours (Bar & snacks) 9:00-11:00pm Tuesdays – Saturdays

Milano’s New Summer Menu

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Milano’s offers the perfect mix of casual comfort food, local flavor, and a great atmosphere. Known for its legendary subs, pizzas, and wings, Milano’s is a go-to spot for everything from game day grub to relaxed dinners with friends. Their signature hoagies and loaded cheesesteaks are fan favorites, and they also have a rotating selection of craft beers and a full bar. Whether you’re craving a classic Italian-style sandwich or want to hang out and catch the game, Milano’s delivers quality food, fast service, and a hometown vibe that keeps people coming back. Milano’s has just released their Summer Menu, which is available through August 31st:

Gluten- free rolls available for an upcharge- $1.99 for a half $3.99 for a whole

 

Location Restaurant Hours Delivery Hours Phone Number
University of Dayton
1834 Brown Street
Dayton, OH 45409		 Sun: 11a-midnight
M-W: 11a-1a
Th-Sat: 11a-2:30a		 Sun-Thurs 11a-midnight
Fri-Sat 11a-1a		 937-222-7072
Miami Township
9572 Springboro Pike
Miami Township, Ohio 45342		 Mon-Thurs 11a-11p
Fri-Sat 11a-12a
Sun 11a-10p		 Mon-Thurs 11a-11p
Fri-Sat 11a-12a
Sun 11a-10p		 937-434-7827
Beavercreek
2260 N. Fairfield Rd
Beavercreek, Ohio 45431		 Mon-Thurs 11a-11p
Fri-Sat 11a-12a
Sun 11a-10p		 Mon-Thurs 11a-11p
Fri-Sat 11a-12a
Sun 11a-10p		 937-427-7827

Ashley’s Pastry Shop Offering Cookies For A Cause

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This week, Ashley’s Pastry Shop is  baking to support those affected by the recent flooding in Central Texas. In partnership with  the non profit, Raining Angels, they are supporting the Hope House, sending sensory kits to the children and adults with disabilities that live and are served there.

A staple memory for many that attended Camp Mystic, a summer camp that was heavily impacted by the flood, are goodies known as “Tweety Cookies”. These infamous oatmeal chocolate-chip cookies were baked by camp co-owner Tweety Eastland for campers and staff.
Ashley’s will be baking these special treats this week, and 100% of proceeds from Tweety cookie sales will go to Raining Angels, an organization supporting Hope House! Hope House is a home that permanently houses and serves disabled children and adults in Texas, giving them lifelong care. It was one of the locations hit the hardest by the flooding. Stop into the bakery this week to try the Tweety Cookies yourself, and send hope and support to those in need 

A Free Night of Music with Parrots of the Caribbean at RiverScape

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Join us under the pavilion as the RiverScape Summer Music Series features A Tribute to Jimmy Buffet with Parrots of the Caribbean! Bring your lawn chairs and enjoy this FREE live concert, while taking in a spectacular sunset over the Great Miami River. The RiverScape Cafe will be open selling food and drinks along with alcoholic beverages, including beer, wine, and cocktails, for those 21 and over.

Parrots of the Caribbean is a high-energy, original show putting the ROCK in Tropical-Rock, featuring our “Salute to Jimmy Buffett!”, along with fan-favorite originals, & stage-show antics! Acclaimed as the #1 Jimmy Buffett Tribute!

A New Option For Authentic Mexican Food

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The Mexican restaurant located inside La Poblanita Mexican Market opened quietly a couple of months ago. With a menu chocked full of authentic Mexican dishes with the  specialty of the house being Tacos Al Pastor De Trompo, and Ceviche Tostadas. The menu is vast and starts with 5 appetizer selections, burritos, volcanes tacos, tortas, seafood, a section from the grill,  kids selections,  desserts and a full bar. It’s very reasonably priced with most entrees from $12 – 16 and portions that were quite large.  I ended up taking home half my burrito it was so big and filling.

Friday through Sunday they also offer a Caldo de Camaron, Menudo, Caldo de Res, Tamales and Pozole.

Sharing a few food pictures:

Quesabirria

 

Steak Burrito

 

 

Taquitos

La Poblanita Mexican Restaurant
located in the back of the market.

470 Springboro Pike,
Miamisburg, OH 45342

Open 7 days a week
9:00 am to 9:00 pm

July 16th is National Hot Dog Day and Here Are The Deals

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The hot dog is more than just a ballpark snack—it’s a symbol of summer, cookouts, and casual, fun meals shared with friends and family. Celebrating the day is a great excuse to enjoy a nostalgic favorite, support local restaurants or hot dog stands, and have some lighthearted fun. Plus, it’s a tasty way to beat the heat without breaking the bank! Here are the deals we’ve found to celebrate National Hot Dog Day on Wed, July 16th.

  • 7-Eleven: This year, 7Rewards and Speedy can celebrate National Hot Dog Day with $2 Big Bite hot dogs through July 22.
  • Circle K: Grab two roller grill hot dogs for $1 at Circle K when you order them in-app on National Hot Dog Day, July 16.
  • Dixie Dairy Dreem – Every Wed is 99 cent weenie day here!
  •  Love’s:  offering Love’s Connect app users a FREE hot dog or roller grill product each day from July 14 – 16 with an in-app offer. You must present your My Love’s Rewards digital bar code or card at checkout.
  • Philly Pretzel Factory:  $1 Pretzel Dogs in-app offer at Philly Pretzel Factory. Plus, when you download the Philly Pretzel Factory app you’ll get a free Pretzel Dog, no purchase necessary.
  •  Sheetz:  giving two free hot dogs to guests who purchase 10 gallons or more of fuel in a single transaction. You must first activate the offer in the OFFERZ tab of the Sheetz app. Offer valid from July 16 – 22.
  • Sonic:  Sonic will be selling its Premium Beef Chili Cheese Coney dogs for $1.29 when you order through the Sonic app and $1 Corn Dogs
  • The Root Beer Stande: 2 for $6 regular sized hot dogs. 2 for $12 footlongs.

Sip, Sample, and Vote For Your Favorite Artini To Benefit Culture Works

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Tickets are now on sale for the 5th annual Artini to be held on from 6 – 8pm on Thursday, August 21st in the Rotunda of the Dayton Arcade.  Culture Works’ unique friend and fundraiser that celebrates the fusion of art and mixology by featuring art-inspired cocktails and mocktails.

Local Mixologists work from an inspiration piece of art from a local artist to create a tasty “Artini.” Enjoy live music, delectable appetizers, engaging arts experiences, and local artwork for sale, while exploring the best drinks that art can inspire. Your ticket also affords you a vote to select the winning bartender. You decide which mixologist has captured the essence of the artwork in both a cocktail and a mocktail.

Confirmed Participants include:  Coco’s Bistro, Fifth Street Brewpub and Wheat Penny, with more to be added.

Sip, sample, and vote for your favorites! 

General Admission tickets – $55 includes five drink tickets
VIP tickets – $65 includes early access at 5:30pm and a bonus drink ticket

Tickets can be purchased online. Cash bar available for beer and wine.

Questions? Interested in sponsoring Artini? Call 937-222-ARTS or email [email protected].