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It’s First Friday and Downtown Dayton Will Be Hopping

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The beginning of every month starts with a bang in downtown Dayton. First Friday is a free event that runs from
5 -10 pm at many locations throughout downtown, coordinated by the Downtown Dayton Partnership..

Add to all this everything going on at the restaurants, bars, nightclubs, theaters, comedy club, movie theater and more that make up the downtown mix.

See below for detailed information about specific happenings during tonight’s First Friday.

First Friday at Front Street: Help ring in the new year of creativity at Front Street! Bring your holiday guests to enjoy an evening inside the largest community of artists and artisans in the midwest! First Fridays are your opportunity to explore what goes on behind these red bricks! Many artists and artisan create new and exciting projects to display and discuss!

• ClubEvolutionDayton, 130 N. Patterson Blvd.: $2 Cherry Bombs during karaoke from 10p-2a!
• The Dayton Beer Company, 41 Madison St.: Happy Hour runs 3-5 p.m.! Enjoy $1 off all DBC core beers.
• The Dublin Pub, 300 Wayne Ave.: Enjoy Happy Hour specials from 3-6 p.m.!
• The Foundry Rooftop, 124 Madison St.: Enjoy an amazing view of Day Air Ballpark and downtown Dayton alongside delicious wood-fired cuisine. Igloo rentals are available now for parties of up to 6!

• Lily’s Dayton, 329 E. Fifth St.: First Friday Happy Hour: Happy hour pricing on bao buns for $3.25/each and $6 highball cocktails, $2 off all glass pours of wine, and $1 off craft beers on tap.
• Oregon Express, 336 E. Fifth St.: Happy Hour 4-7 p.m. with ½ off drafts and apps, $2 off liquor!
• Pins Mechanical Co. , 416 E. First St.: Fireball Friday at Pins Mechanical Co.! Half-off Fireball and Fireball Blazin’ Apple all day on Fridays. Plus, Happy Hour from 4-7PM, with half-off select draft beers and $3 off specialty cocktails.
• Salar Restaurant and Lounge, 400 E. Fifth St., 937-203-3999: Kick off your First Friday with happy hour at Salar from 4-6 p.m. with cocktail specials, $5 house wine pours, $1 off of all beers, and bar bites specials. Enjoy dinner, too, available for dine in or carryout.
• The Silos, 810 E. First St.: Stop in to try The Silos’ new signature N/A cocktail menu!
• Sueño , 607 E. Third St.: Happy hour at the bar runs from 4-6 p.m.!
• Tender Mercy, 607 E. Third St. (Lower Level), Happy Hour runs from 4-6 p.m. featuring half-off select Signature Cocktails, beer, and wine.
• Troll Pub at the Wheelhouse, 216 Wayne Ave.: Every Friday at the Troll Pub is part of W.T.F Happy Hours: Wednesday, Thursday & Friday from 4-7 p.m. featuring 1/2 Priced Pints & 1/2 priced apps, and $4 Fireball Shots.
• Trolley Stop, 530 E. Fifth St., 937-461-1101: Enjoy Half-off Happy Hour every day 3-7pm! $3 wells and half off select appetizers.
• Winans Chocolates + Coffees , 221 N. Patterson Blvd.: Happy Hour from 4 – 7 pm $1 off any glass of wine from our menu. $2 off each glass if you bring a friend!

Lucky New Year’s Traditions

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For many the start of a new year is all about making a fresh start.  For others it’s a time of tradition.  Either way, why not start your year with some of these foods considered to bring good luck and prosperity  for the new year.

Here’s a round up of some of the best know New Years Eve traditions from around the world:

Hoppin’ John—  A traditional southern New Year’s dish —black eyed peas and ham hocks. An old saying goes, “Eat peas on New Year’s day to have plenty of everything the rest of the year.”

Eating-12-GrapesGrapes – consume 12 at midnight. Each grape represents a different month, so if the 3rd
grape is a bit sour, March might be a rocky month.  This tradition hails from Spain in 1909 by grape growers who were trying to create a market for left over grapes.

Noodles– In Asia, eating long noodles is believed to bring a long life. The New Year’s Day tradition has the person eating the noodle without breaking it until it is all in your mouth.

Seafood –  In Japan, herring roe is consumed for fertility, shrimp for long life, and dried sardines for a good harvest

Open the Doors- It’s a common superstition that opening the doors and windows will let the old year out, and the new year in unimpeded.

Donuts – The Dutch love to eat a donut on New Year’s Day because they believe that the circular food item symbolizes the full circle of life.

Black Elucky-new-years-food-01-slyed Peas– The peas, since they swell when cooked, symbolize prosperity.

Greens – their leaves look like folded money, and are thus symbolic of economic fortune.  The tradition implies that the more kale, cabbage, collards and chard you eat, the larger your fortunes will be.

Pork– pigs symbolize progress & its rich fat content signifies wealth and prosperity.  Roast suckling pig is served for New Year’s in Cuba, Spain, Portugal, Hungary, and Austria and Austrians are known to decorate the table with miniature pigs made of marzipan.

Hanging Onions– No, this New Year’s Eve tradition has nothing to do with vampires. Rather, the Greeks believe that onions are a symbol of rebirth, and so they hang the pungent vegetable on their doors in order to promote growth throughout the new year. Greek culture has long associated this food with the idea of development, seeing as all the odorous onion ever seemingly wants is to plant its roots and keep growing.


Pomegranates – Eating pomegranate on New Year’s Eve is a great Brazilian tradition. It is believed that the pomegranate’s abundance of seeds is an analogy for abundance in your life. Some say that you have to eat the fruit and keep its seeds in your wallet to attract money all year round.

Roast suckling pig is served for New Year’s in Cuba, Spain, Portugal, Hungary, and Austria and Austrians are known to decorate the table with miniature pigs made of marzipan.

Citrus–  In China, oranges and tangerines are placed on the table for the New Years meal. This could be because “orange” and “tangerine” sound very much like “wealth” and “luck” in the Chinese language.

Sprinkling Salt – In Turkey, it’s considered good luck to sprinkle salt on your doorstep as soon as the clock strikes midnight on New Year’s day. Like many other New Year’s Eve traditions around the globe, this one is said to promote both peace and prosperity throughout the new year.

lucky-new-years-food-05-sl

Cakes–  Round shaped cakes and breads are eaten all over the world on New Years day-  a symbol of coming full circle. In most countries, a coin or a trinket is hidden inside the cake. The recipient to get that slice is said to have good fortune all year long.

 

What Not to Eat:

Just as there are lucky foods, there are also some foods that carry the stigma of bringing bad luck, so be warned:

Lobster– they move backwards and could therefore lead to setbacks

Chicken– they scratch for food so those who eat poultry will “scratch” for food all year.

Winged fowl– because good luck could fly away!

White foods – The Chinese avoid eggs, cheese, and tofu, because white is the color of death.

 

This New Year’s Eve, it is almost inevitable that you will hear (and possibly try to sing) “Auld Lang Syne,” a song whose melody is synonymous with the new year (and the theme of change more broadly).  It is used traditionally to bid farewell to the old year and welcome the new year at the stroke of midnight, or throughout the night, each New Year’s Eve. The song is also sometimes used on significant ceremonial occasions like graduations and funerals.

Should auld acquaintance be forgot
And never brought to mind?
Should auld acquaintance be forgot
And days of auld lang syne?

For auld lang syne, my dear
For auld lang syne
We'll take the cup o' kindness yet
For auld lang syne

For auld lang syne, my dear
For auld lang syne
We'll take the cup o' kindness yet
For auld lang syne

Wishing you a happy and healthy new year!

How to Sustainably Dispose Of Your Christmas Tree

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Five Rivers MetroParks has collected natural trees post-holiday in year’s past on behalf of its conservation team and the Ohio Department of Natural Resources. Trees were collected to sink at Eastwood Lake and the aquatic habitats at Possum Creek to help bolster the health and population of fish.

Due to the overwhelming generosity of the community last year, MetroParks collected and sank so many trees it does not need to collect any this year.

While MetroParks won’t be hosting tree collections in 2026, it does encourage you to dispose of your tree in a sustainable way. Here are just a few options:

Drop off your tree at a green recycling or composting facility

Before doing so, remove all tinsel, lights, decorations, tree stands and plastic bags.

2670 Wagner Ford Rd., Dayton, OH 45414

Winter Hours: Last week of December through Feb. 28, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

1001 Encrete Ln, Moraine, OH 45439

Monday to Friday: 6 a.m. to  8p.m.; Saturday: 8 a.m. – 3 p.m. (Christmas trees are accepted throughout the year)

1840 Woodman Center Dr., Kettering, Ohio 45420

Winter Hours: Begin the first Saturday in December; Saturdays Only: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

This program extends for approximately 30 days after Christmas. Any resident interested in this should place their Christmas trees at the street curb for pick up. All collected Christmas trees are chipped and recycled into wood chips.

Related  Shop and celebrate local at the 2nd Street Market this December

2145 Greene Way Blvd., Xenia, OH 45385

Hours: Monday to Friday: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Saturday: 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.

1256 Dayton-Yellow Springs Rd., Fairborn, OH 45324

Hours: Monday – Friday: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Saturday: 8 a.m. to noon

Create, craft, garden and more

  • Use for wood in a fire pit: Let your tree dry out outside and then cut it up for firewood. Note: Do not leave the tree to dry out inside because pine trees are flammable
  • Create a habitat in your yard for animals and insects: Place your tree in a stand outside and place bird feeders on the branches or in the tree. Let it biodegrade in your backyard. Note: If you have space in your backyard, either place the entire tree or cut it into sticks and let it biodegrade
  • Mulch with pine needles: Remove pine needles from your Christmas tree and then use them for mulch once they have dried out.
  • Insulate perennials with boughs to protect them from snow and frost
  • Make coasters or trivets: Saw off thin slabs of the trunk and sand them smooth. Note: Be careful of sap if using on tables
  • Make DIY air fresheners: Crush up the pine needles and place them in potpourri
  • Donate it to a farm with goats, donkeys, and/or alpacas: Be completely sure that the tree was not sprayed with chemicals like fire retardant

7 Things to Know About Kwanzaa

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Kwanzaa is a relatively modern holiday that began just over 50 years ago, started in 1966 by Dr. Maulana Karenga.

In the years since, Kwanzaa has grown more popular and has been commemorated with postage stamp designs and mentions by several American presidents as part of their holiday greetings.

However, if you don’t celebrate Kwanzaa, you may not know the traditions or the philosophy that are important to its meaning and celebration.

Here are seven things to know about Kwanzaa.

Why and when it was created

Kwanzaa was created in 1966 by Maulana Karenga, a black nationalist who became a college professor. He created the holiday in the aftermath of the Watts riots in Los Angeles as an effort to unite and empower the African-American community, and it was first celebrated that year.

The origins of its name

Inspired by traditional harvest festivals, Kwanzaa takes its name from a Swahili phrase, “matunda ya kwanza,” which means “first fruits.” Over 2,000 languages are spoken in Africa, so Swahili, which is spoken by millions, was chosen since it’s a unifying language. An extra “a” was added to the end of the original word because seven children each wanted to represent a letter at the first Kwanzaa celebration.

Who can celebrate Kwanzaa?

Because it’s celebrated from Dec. 26 to Jan. 1, some people assume that Kwanzaa is an alternative to Christmas. It’s a cultural celebration that has a spiritual quality, but the holiday is not a religious one. Although it celebrates African culture, people of any race or ethnic background can participate in the holiday’s events and customs.

Why it lasts for seven days

Each of the seven days of Kwanzaa is dedicated to a principle, which gives each day a specific meaning and purpose on which to focus. The seven principles are unity, self-determination, collective work and responsibility, cooperative economics, purpose, creativity and faith.

The colors of Kwanzaa

The colors of Kwanzaa are black, red and green, and they’re used to represent unity for people of African descent worldwide. Black represents the people, red for the noble blood that unites them and green for the rich land of Africa.

The meaning of the candelabra

A seven-branched candelabra called a kinara is used to help discuss and celebrate the principles, with a new candle being lit each night. One is black, three are red and three are green, and the black candle is placed in the center. The black candle, which represents unity, is lit on the first day of Kwanzaa. Red candles are placed to the left and green to the right and are lit in that order. The order of the candles indicates that the people come first, followed by the struggle and then hope.

The importance of food

Food is an important part of many holidays, and Kwanzaa is no exception. Many people celebrate with their favorite African-American dishes – along with traditional African, Caribbean and other appropriate recipes – throughout the week. The holiday culminates with a feast (known as Karamu) on Dec. 31, with dishes meant to symbolize the past as well as the current growth of African cultur

Cruising with Chef Anne Kearney

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Embark on an extraordinary 10 day excursion through the Adriatic May 1-11, 2026, where the beauty of Croatia’s coast meets the artistry of world-class foods and wines. Hosted by James Beard Award‑winning Chef Anne Kearney and wine expert Brent Wagener, this intimate journey begins in Dubrovnik and concludes in the historic port of Split—unfolding a tapestry of flavors, culture, and seaside luxury along the way.

Aboard your private yacht you will savor bespoke dining experiences, cooking demonstrations, and wine tastings and pairings. Each day brings new indulgences and rare encounters: an exclusive oyster and fish picnic on the sea, a private tuna show on a secluded island, and tastings of Croatia’s celebrated olive oils and coastal wines.

Your voyage includes excursions to some of Dalmatia’s most breathtaking destinations. You can swim in the beautiful clear waters of the Adriatic, discover the hidden secrets of Vis Military Island, and wander the chic streets of Hvar Town, alive with Mediterranean charm.

From golden sunsets on deck to immersive encounters with local heritage keepers, this journey is crafted for discerning travelers who seek more than a vacation. It is a rare chance to experience Croatia through its flavors, stories, and unforgettable coastal beauty—anchored Brent Wagener’s expertise of the wines of the region and the culinary expertise of Chef Anne Kearney

What to Expect on This Extraordinary Journey

Prepare for a seamless, luxurious travel experience from the moment you arrive in Croatia until the moment you depart. This culinary-focused, wine-forward adventure is thoughtfully curated to combine relaxation, exploration, indulgence, and world-class hospitality.

5-Star Luxury Accommodations (Pre & Post-Yachting)

Begin and end your journey in comfort with stays at carefully selected 5-star hotels, offering elegant rooms, exceptional service, and the perfect setting to unwind before and after your time at sea.

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Private Transportation Throughout Your Trip

Your comfort is our priority. Enjoy private ground transfers to and from the airport, hotels, marinas, and scheduled excursions — eliminating travel logistics so you can simply relax and enjoy each moment.

Guided Tours & Exclusive Local Experiences

Explore Croatia’s rich history, culture, and landscapes with expert-led private tours of charming coastal towns, UNESCO heritage sites, and iconic island destinations. These intimate excursions offer authentic local insight, access to hidden gems, and memorable stories behind every stop.

Seven Days of Luxury Yachting Aboard Symphony

Cruise effortlessly along Croatia’s stunning Dalmatian Coast aboard a modern, beautifully appointed yacht. Expect spacious cabins, attentive crew, curated onboard amenities, and daily routes that reveal turquoise waters, secluded coves, and postcard-perfect islands.

Private Culinary Experiences with Chef Anne

Savor exclusive dishes crafted by James Beard Award–winning Chef Anne Kearney, blending European inspiration, classic technique, and her signature “Food of Love” philosophy. Enjoy chef-hosted dinners, special tastings, and opportunities to connect with Anne as she prepares unforgettable meals at sea.

Thoughtful Wine Tastings & Pairings with Brent Wagener

Delight in expertly curated wine experiences guided by Brent Wagener of Wines With Wagener. From regional Croatian varietals to elevated global selections, Brent will lead tastings, pairings, and engaging discussions that deepen your appreciation of every sip.

Whether it’s sunset on deck, swimming in crystal-clear coves, strolling markets overflowing with local flavors, or toasting new friends under the stars — this journey promises meaningful memories you’ll carry long after you return home.

Click here for full Trip Details.

The Strange Story Behind Christmas Pickles

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If you’ve ever decorated an American Christmas tree, you may have heard of the odd tradition of hiding a glass pickle ornament among the branches. The child who finds it first on Christmas morning supposedly earns a reward or an extra present. It is one of the quirkiest holiday customs in the United States, yet its origins are surprisingly mysterious. For years it has been attributed to German immigrants, but when asked, most Germans had never heard of a “Christmas pickle.” So where did this strange little tradition come from?



One theory traces the pickle ornament back to German glass-blowing workshops in the nineteenth century. Craftsmen in the town of Lauscha produced beautifully detailed fruit and vegetable ornaments, including pickles, which later entered American markets. As these ornaments spread across the United States, clever shopkeepers may have invented the story of the hidden pickle to help sell them. The idea stuck, and soon families all across America adopted the unusual hunt as part of their holiday fun.

Another theory is darker and tied to the American Civil War. According to legend, a Union soldier held in a Confederate prison camp was given a single pickle on Christmas Eve by a guard. That pickle, the story says, gave him just enough strength to survive until he was rescued. Out of gratitude, the soldier supposedly introduced the Christmas pickle tradition once he returned home. Historians have never been able to confirm this tale, but it persists as one of the more dramatic explanations behind the ornament.

Regardless of where the ornament story began, pickles themselves were a very real part of winter survival in northern Europe. Families across Germany, Poland, and the Baltic regions fermented cucumbers, cabbage, and root vegetables each autumn to ensure they had food that would last through long, cold winters. Pickling was a vital preservation method, and jars filled with brine and spices lined cellars for months. In that sense, the Christmas pickle—whether glass or edible—does connect to genuine Old World traditions of winter preparedness.

Today, the Christmas pickle is less about survival and more about delight. It is a playful little mystery tucked into the holiday tree, a tradition that blends imagination, immigrant history, and a touch of folklore. Whether it began in a German workshop or a Civil War camp, it has become a charming part of the American Christmas story.

Do you hide the Christmas pickle in your tree each year?

Donnie Dodson is the creator behind Eats History, a passionate storyteller who explores the past not through textbooks or lectures, but through the food that shaped it. He makes it clear that he’s not a historian, and he’s not a professional chef.

But what he brings to the table is something more: an unmatched obsession with telling history and culture through a culinary lens. Through food, he tells the stories of empires, revolutions, forgotten rulers, and everyday people just like us in a way that feels tangible, entertaining, and unexpectedly emotional.


eatshistory.com 

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

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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:

For more information and tickets, visit thebrightsidedayton.com

Wreath Across America

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It was an honor for VA nurse emeritus , Margaret Kruckemeyer to help lay  wreaths at the gravesites of veterans who did so much to ensure the freedom we Americans enjoy today.

Most of the 8,300 wreaths for this year’s Wreath Across America event were placed on gravesites after the noon WAA  honoring ceremony at Dayton’s  National VA Cemetery by volunteers from Dayton community

However, one wreath needed to travel to Woodlawn’s historic cemetery  where another highly  respected military leader and her veteran husband Dr Stanley Earley lay in rest .  Best known for her leading the 6888th BN that shattered many records in overseas mail delivery during WW II as well as being known as first all black women US Army group, Charity Adams-Earley continued to nurture and create opportunities for  young black women in  Dayton “to be the  the best  they could be “ to achieve careers in all professional areas of their choice.

Santa’s Wonderland Nights Brings an Indoor North Pole Adventure to Dayton

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Families in the Miami Valley will step straight into the magic of the North Pole this season as Santa’s Wonderland Nights opens its doors December 12 at 5679 Webster Street in Dayton, Ohio. The brand-new indoor Christmas experience transforms a warehouse into Santa’s Kringleworks— a hidden “North Pole District” where Christmas magic is imagined, built, tested, and shipped around the world.

Designed as a fully themed night out rather than a quick walk-through, Santa’s Wonderland Nights offers guests approximately 2.5 hours of interactive holiday fun. Every ticket includes a seated holiday dinner, access to nine immersive rooms filled with 16 different activities and games, and a meet-and-greet with Santa complete with photo opportunities.

“Parents are always looking for something that feels bigger than a light walk or a quick mall visit,” said the event’s creators at A & L Entertainment Immersive. “Santa’s Wonderland Nights is designed as an evening you sink into — you sit down for dinner together, you explore room by room, you play, build, discover, and actually make memories side by side.”

The Elf Toy Co

Inside Santa’s Kringleworks:

Guests begin their evening in the Celestial Hall, where they enjoy a festive dinner and a round of holiday trivia before being released into the Kringleworks to explore. From there, they move at their own pace through nine handcrafted rooms, each built as a different corner of the North Pole District, including:

  • The Elf Toy Co. – Build a small toy to take home and try hands-on elf-style tasks
  • Peppermint Power Plant – A code-cracking game where families help “power” the North Pole
  • The Old Map Room – A constellation and navigation game that plays like a living puzzle
  • The Post Office & Starlight Mailroom – Write and deliver letters straight to Santa
  • Elf Pantry & Cookie Labs – Decorate cookies and enjoy sweet treats
  • Kringle’s Corner – Meet Santa and take family photos in a themed sleigh setting

The Post Office & Starlight Mailroom 

Across these rooms, families can take on 16 different activities, games, and challenges, ranging from logic puzzles and scavenger hunts to sensory guessing games and creative stations. The event is strictly limited to 100 guests per night, keeping lines short and allowing families to linger in each space.

Dinner, Dessert & More Included

Dinner in the Celestial Hall

Unlike many ticketed holiday attractions that charge extra for food or photos, one ticket at Santa’s Wonderland Nights includes the entire evening:

  • Holiday dinner in the Celestial Hall (with options including spiral-sliced ham, eggplant parm, and kid-friendly meals)
  • Dessert and an ice cream bar
  • Nine immersive rooms of themed environments and puzzles
  • 16 activities and games suitable for kids and adults
  • Photos and meet-and-greet with Santa

Tickets are available only on select nights from December 12 through January 4.

Peppermint Power Plant

From the Creators of Blackwood Manor Halloween Bash

Santa’s Wonderland Nights is produced by A & L Entertainment Immersive, the same team behind Dayton’s Blackwood Manor Halloween Bash, a sold-out immersive Halloween event that drew strong word-of-mouth and enthusiastic reviews from families earlier this year.

“After Blackwood Manor, so many families asked us if we could do something just as special for Christmas,” the creators added. “Santa’s Wonderland Nights is our answer to that — a holiday world that feels big, detailed, and handcrafted, but still cozy enough that your kids feel like they’re really part of the story.”

Event Details

  • Event: Santa’s Wonderland Nights – The Kringleworks
  • Dates: December 12, 2025 – January 4, 2026
  • Duration: Approx. 2.5 hours per event
  • Location: 5679 Webster Street, Dayton, OH 45414
  • Capacity: Strictly limited to 100 guests per night
  • Tickets: Available exclusively online

For more information and to reserve tickets, visit SantasFunNight.com.

Fifth Annual Holly Days At The Arcade

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The magic returns with this  annual three-day event in the Arcade’s event spaces which will feature holiday shopping  live entertainment, family-friendly activities and performances, a cash bar, and holiday surprises. Wed, Dec 10 – Fri, Dec 12th 3- 8pm

There are 3 event entrances on different streets – 35 W. Fourth Street, 31 S. Main Street, and 24 W. Third Street.

Local makers and artisans selling handmade gifts, décor, jewelry, ceramics, wearables, treats, and more


Live music and performances that fill the event spaces with cheer

Dining at food trucks:

A food and monetary donation drive for Miami Valley Meals

Visit our neighbors at DENEAU TOWER , 40 W. Fourth St. for an espresso martini bar, letters to Santa, and live music!

FREE event parking is available in the Reibold Garage at 25 W. Fifth Street from 3:00 – 8:00 PM. Meters surround the Arcade complex and are FREE after 6:00 PM.
 FREE Holly Days shuttle picks up at 31 S. Main Street and runs every 15 minutes from 3:00 – 8:00 PM. Check out the shuttle route for a list of stops.
FREE RTA Flyer circulator runs from the Arcade to the University of Dayton/Brown Street with trips every 10 minutes.

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.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dayton at Work and Play: Protest Art

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Trump’s administration has worked hard to portray itself as Christian. The Speaker of the House says that the Bible directs all his political decisions. Many female Trump administration figures wear large cross necklaces, and the president himself sells “God Bless the U.S.A. Bibles.” Some ministers hail Trump as “God’s chosen one” and many of the president’s supporters identify as Christian nationalists.
But a growing number of Christian leaders are saying that the administration’s actions are not Christian, especially its actions against immigrants. They don’t fault the government for upholding the law but for doing so in the cruelest way possible. They condemn, in the Pope’s words, the administration’s “inhuman treatment of immigrants.”
Last Thursday I was invited to a gathering of Christians who are speaking out against the president. One of Michigan’s oldest protestant churches, Dearborn United Methodist Church, held “A Night of Art & Protest on Immigration.”
The church’s Pastor opened the evening by reviewing Matthew 25, where those who want to follow Jesus are told how they are to live. They must actively help people in need, doing things like feeding the hungry, welcoming strangers, and visiting those in prison.
Then people presented protest art they had created. There were songs, poems and even a children’s book. I spoke about the president saying Haitian immigrants in Springfield were eating dogs and cats, and how that led me to learn more about immigration and to make the first protest art of my life. The church had bought all 12 of my NOT CRIMINAL pieces and had them on display. At the end of the meeting the Pastor said that if people felt that a specific piece of my art needed to be part of someone’s life, they could buy them. Nine were taken. The remaining three will be a permanent exhibition at the church.

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

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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+

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!

Nominate A Miami Valley Entrepreneurs 35 Years & Under For BBB Spark Award

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Better Business Bureau serving Dayton & the Miami Valley is pleased to announce nominations are open for the 2026 BBB Spark Award. This award honors trustworthy entrepreneurs, 35 and under or new business owners of any age operating for less than three years. Recipients of the award should embody and cultivate the Three C’s of Trust: Character, Culture and Community. These character-driven leaders and organizations are the future of our trusted marketplace.

Applications and nominations are accepted online. If you would like to nominate an organization, the deadline to do so is February 2, 2026. Nominated organizations must complete and submit their application by March 2, 2026. (Organizations may self-nominate.) Information regarding award criteria can also be found at this Web site.

The Spark Award winners will be announced on May 12, 2026 at the BBB’s Torch Award For Ethics Dinner. Additionally, recipients will be involved in telling their stories at BBB events throughout the year.

The Class of 2026 honorees will inspire others to take the leap into successful entrepreneurship. If you, or someone you know, is a young leader of an outstanding entrepreneurial company, submit a nomination or entry for the Spark Award today.

Christy Mauch, interim president and CEO of BBB serving Dayton/Miami Valley says, “The Miami Valley has many dynamic young business leaders and we are thrilled to spotlight them with this honor. Help us recognize their courage and success as they lead innovation in our community. These individuals have earned it. Submit a nomination today.”

If you have questions regarding this recognition, call (937) 610-2270 or email [email protected]

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

 

 

 

 

Swoon – Book Store & Wine Bar Coming to Oakwood

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Pop quiz question 1:

What is the best-selling book genre in the world?

Romance novels generate billions of dollars of revenue annually. The romance genre continues to grow in appeal as writers genre-blend, branching into mystery, history, and fantasy, combining emotional depth, relationships, and niche subject popularity—think of Diana J. Gabaldon’s book series, Outlander, which merged multiple genres, featuring elements of historical fiction, romance, mystery, adventure and science fiction/fantasy—which has sold over 50 million books. The Starz network adaptation of the Outlander generated over half a billion dollars in revenue, and the it helped drive the $4.4 billion acquisition of Starz by Lionsgate. Outlander continues to bring in monies through a licensing agreement with Netflix. And Outlander is only one example of how the romance is the genre of market dominance and high profitability.

Pop quiz question 2:

What genre has been met with “relentless hostility” for decades?

Despite its market profitability, romances still grapple with literary stigma, historically, repeatedly, dismissed as “trashy,” “formulaic,” and finally denigrated into “chic lit.” An internet search of romance genre reveals pages and pages of articles attacking and defending the genre. Recent critiques have pulled away from dismissing the genre as a whole and have focused on deconstructing themes within the genre, decrying “unhealthy preoccupations with coercive sex and dominance,” “lack of representative diversity,” “anti-feminist ideals,” and “unrealistic,” portrayals of men. But still the books sell.

Pop quiz question 3:

Which genre has the strongest relationship between author/reader?

Women write eighty three percent of romances. Nathanial Hawthorne may have reviled those “scribbling women,” but the publishing industry has come to rely on the relationships that develop between romance authors and readers to drive sales. Romance authors have a direct and interactive audience that consider themselves a community of readers. Over ninety percent of romance readers are women, and these readers fill social reading sited like Goodreads and StoryGraph, fiction apps like Dreame and Wattpad, and drive publisher specific site development like Harlequin online. 

Romance is a business, and the business of romance is good. 

If you knew the answer to these questions, then, like me, you are going to be excited by what comes next. 

Dayton is about to have a bookstore and wine bar dedicated solely to romance. When I heard that, I thought “what a good idea.” When I talked with Lauren Gay and Lindsay Woodruff about the plans for Swoon Books & Wine, I practically swooned myself with excitement. Swoon Books and Wine, coming to 2504 Far Hills Avenue, will be romance made manifest. The space will have a rococo interior, wine, full bar, and treats–both savory and sweet–from local food partners. All the books will be romances. 

“We’re creating a space where a community of readers can immerse themselves in a genre they love,” Woodruff says. “It’s all about the ambience,” Gay says, “we are creating a place that will reflect the romantic experience and capture that happy ending feeling.” 

Curating a space to embody a feeling is not new to Woodruff and Gay. Woodruff started Maraluna, an artisan home goods store that ensures all products are ethically produced, in Troy almost a decade ago. Since then, she has relocated it to Oakwood, and again to a larger space at 2316 Far Hills Ave. Despite the moves, Maraluna thrives, because Woodruff creates a warm and inviting atmosphere in every location. Lauren Gay also is passionate about curating her spaces to create the right vibes. A CMS certified sommelier and the owner of Joui Wine, at 117 E. Third St. in the Fire Blocks district, Gay’s passion for curating is evident. At Joui, the focus is not only on selecting just the right wine for her guests, but also about crafting the wine experience. 

With this track record of success and their shared love of reading, Swoon Books and Wine promises to be a beloved spot to hang out and read. But what I loved about interviewing them is that these women are not only romance readers, but they are also like the women in the books they love: smart, talented, creators of their own destiny. And lucky for Dayton, they are also experienced entrepreneurs, creating the community they want to live in, one storefront at a time. 

 

If you can’t wait to Swoon, you will be excited to hear they now have TWO ways you can join the fun now — eGift Cards, and the brand new Swoon Book Club!

The Swoon Book Club is launching now with three tiered offerings; each tier features a curated monthly book selection plus varying levels of in store credits, vouchers, and exclusive discounts. Swoon will also offer a limited time discounted three month subscription bundle, ideal for holiday gifting. The Swoon Book Club and eGift Cards are both available now on our website — click the links in the comments below!

Swoon Books & Wine
2504 Far Hills Avenue
Oakwood, Ohio 45419

COMING SOON!