As Labor Day weekend approaches, it's the perfect time to celebrate the unofficial end of summer in Destination Dayton! Whether you're looking for family friendly events, outdoor adventures, or cultural experiences, our vibrant city has something for everyone to enjoy. This holiday weekend offers a fantastic array of activities that highlight Dayton's unique charm and community spirit. Get ready to create lasting memories with your loved ones as we explore the top things to do this Labor Day weekend in Dayton, Ohio!
1. Reggae Amplified Ft. The Itals at Levitt Pavilion
134 S Main Street, Dayton, OH 45402
Friday, August 30 @ 5:30 P.M.
This Amplified concert begins at 5:30 p.m. instead of the normal 7 p.m. start time to feature a DJ, two openers and a headliner - HOW EXCITING! The night will kick off with DJ SKNO, followed by Seefari, an acclaimed recording artist and multi-instrumentalist, who has toured extensively throughout the USA, headlining festivals and earning critical acclaim for his unique blend of classic reggae and diverse musical influences. Next, you can welcome to the stage, Jah Soul, hailing from Dayton! Jah Soul is great at bringing people to the dance floor with their catchy original music that blends reggae, rock, soul, funk AND disco. To top the night off, The Itals will close. Known for their smooth harmonies and uplifting melodies, The Itals have been a staple in the reggae scene since the 1970s - see for yourself how this Jamaican group can make your night memorable!
As always, all Levitt concerts are FREE and open to the public - no ticket necessary.
2. Friday Night Cruise in at Rip Rap Roadhouse
6024 Rip Rap Road, Huber Heights, OH 45424
Friday, August 30 from 4-10 P.M.
Join in on the fun where the owners of all makes and models are welcome to show off their rides! With over three acres of beautifully lit grassy area, there's plenty of space to park and mingle. Enjoy inside dining or grab some delicious food and drinks outside while indulging in soft serve treats from the Shake Shack. It's a perfect way to kick off the weekend with friends, family and fellow car lovers!
3. Antique Fire Apparatus Show at Carillon Historical Park
1000 Carillon Boulevard, Dayton, OH 45409
Saturday, August 31 from 9:30 A.M. - 4 P.M.
The Miami Valley Antique Fire Apparatus Association (MVAFAA) and Dayton History are ready for a fun-filled, educational day at Carillon Historical Park. Approximately 40 pieces of antique fire apparatus will be showcased in the park's historical exhibit area. This family friendly event offers a unique opportunity to explore the rich history of firefighting, while wandering through the park's 35 exhibit buildings and structures. It's a great outing for history buffs and families alike, providing a glimpse into the past and the evolution of fire apparatus. Don't miss this chance to learn and experience the nostalgia of antique firefighting equipment!
4. Farmers Market at the Heights (Eichelberger Pavilion)
8625 Brandt Pike, Huber Heights, OH 45424
Saturday, August 31 from 10 A.M. - 2 P.M.
This farmers market was launched in 2020 by the City of Huber Heights to serve as a vibrant community hub where all products are homemade or homegrown. The market runs EVERY Saturday from May through October. Additionally, the market collaborates with local nonprofit organizations, providing them a platform to inform the public about their initiatives. This is a fantastic opportunity to support local farmers and artisans.
5. Tour de Gem, beginning at Day Air Ballpark
220 N Patterson Boulevard, Dayton, OH 45402
Saturday, August 31 @ 9 A.M.
The Tour de Gem is a vibrant cycling event organized by the Multiple Sclerosis Society, aimed at raising funds and awareness for those affected by multiple sclerosis. This family friendly ride offers various routes for cyclists of all skill levels, making it an inclusive and enjoyable experience. Participants can choose from distances that range from 1 to 100 miles, allowing everyone to join in the fun while supporting a great cause. With scenic views and a supportive community atmosphere, the Tour de Gem not only promotes physical fitness but also fosters camaraderie among riders united in their mission to make a difference. Don't forget to register on the event website!
6. Kettering Holiday at Home
695 Lincoln Park Boulevard, Dayton, OH 45429
Sunday, September 1 - Monday, September 2
Starting in 1959, Holiday at Home has transformed from a small neighborhood celebration into one of Ohio's largest weekend events! This festival is packed with exciting and safe family oriented activities, making it the perfect way to wrap up summer. Attendees can take advantage of numerous FREE features, including admission, parking, all-day entertainment, children’s games, and a lively Labor Day Parade. The event also showcases top-quality handmade arts and crafts, along with performances by talented artists from across the Miami Valley and beyond. Food trucks and specialty snacks will satisfy every craving, while additional activities like a 5K race, Children’s Fun Run, and a Pancake Breakfast sponsored by the Kettering City Schools Booster Club promise to make this a memorable holiday weekend for all!
7. See a Movie at a Drive-In Theater
Dixie Twin Drive-In
6201 N Dixie Drive, Dayton, OH 45414
Chakeres Melody 49 Drive-In
7606 Pleasant Plain Road, Brookville, OH 45309
Catch a movie under the stars at one of Montgomery County's charming drive-in theaters, for a nostalgic and fun cinematic experience! Enjoy the thrill of watching the latest blockbusters or classic films from the comfort of your own car, surrounded by friends and family. With the smell of freshly popped popcorn and the ambiance of an open-air setting, drive-ins offer a unique way to enjoy a night out, while creating lasting memories. Whether you're snuggled up with loved ones or sharing laughs with friends, Dixie Twin and Chakeres Melody 49 both provide the perfect backdrop for a magical evening of entertainment. Visit their websites for showings!
Embrace the long weekend! Dayton is bursting with activities to celebrate Labor Day! This weekend offers the perfect opportunity to make lasting memories with your loved ones while exploring the vibrant culture and spirit of Dayton. Whether you're dancing to live reggae music, marveling at antique fire apparatus, or enjoying delicious local cuisine at the farmer's market, the options are endless. So, gather together and get ready to soak up all the fun!
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Be sure to request a FREE Destination Dayton Visitors Guide and download the FREE Destination Dayton App for more about things to see and do in Dayton. For more information about Destination Dayton and the services it offers, visit DestinationDayton.org or call 800-221-8235.
