Once Thanksgiving is over (and you’re stuffed like the proverbial Thanksgiving turkey), you and any holiday guests need to get out of the house … but what to do with the rest of your Thanksgiving weekend? We’ve got your guide to some of the best things to do over the long holiday weekend!
You can zip over to our previous blog post to get all the details on the Dayton Holiday Festival’s kickoff this Friday, November 29, but we’ve also pulled together a quick list of 5 things to do around Dayton this weekend:

 

1. Explore the art of Dr. Suess' Holiday Classic & (B)ART at Dayton Art Institute

(B)art Couch


Explore the magic of Dr. Suess’ timeless tale of How the Grinch Stole Christmas, but that’s not all… find the creative process behind the iconic antics of Homer, Marge, Lisa, Maggie and Bart from The Simpsons! Yes, that’s right – both exhibitions will be side by side, colorful and truly memorable. This exhibition will bring nostalgia to visitors of all ages with original cel art used in the production of the Grinch and the famous sofa and living room set used to open each episode of the Simpsons. The exhibit is on display through January 19 with numerous educational programs related to it! The DAI’s website has more information about the exhibition.

2. Go skating at RiverScape

A group of people skating at the MetroParks Ice Rink at RiverScape

November 29 - December 1 marks the opening weekend for the MetroParks Ice Rink–the region’s largest outdoor ice rink–at RiverScape MetroPark in downtown Dayton. The rink has something for everyone: beginners’ lessons, open skating, broomball and curling, not to mention hot chocolate and music. Ice skating is a great way to experience the outdoors during the cooler weather and provides a winter tradition for Miami Valley families looking for something fun to do together. Visit the Five Rivers MetroParks website for more information. Photo courtesy Five Rivers MetroParks

3. See the Rubi Girls in Action

Rubi Girls the Show Must Go On

Get ready for a night of glitz, glamour, and FUNdraising with the Rubi Girls' annual "The Show Must Go On" at the iconic Dayton Arcade on Saturday, November 30th! What began over 30 years ago as small gatherings in living rooms and attics has become a dynamic fundraising powerhouse of comedic drag performances, raising over $2 million for HIV/AIDS and LGBT-related charities. With three levels of tickets available, this unforgettable evening promises a blend of laughter, entertainment, and heart. Seating begins at 7 p.m., with the show starting at 8 p.m. Don’t miss out—get your tickets ASAP before they sell out!

4. Schedule to go on a Hawthorn Hill Tour

Hawthorn Hill

Step into history with a tour of Hawthorn Hill, the former home of Orville Wright and his family, on Saturday, November 30. Tours are given at 10 a.m. & 12:30 p.m., and advanced pre-paid admission is required, but this beautifully preserved mansion offers a glimpse into the life of one of aviation’s greatest pioneers. As you explore the home, you'll learn about Orville's personal life and his work, including his dedication to flight and his significant contributions to history. This is a wonderful opportunity to walk through the iconic residence that was once the Wright family’s sanctuary, and experience the legacy that shaped the world. For more info visit Dayton History's website

5. Experience Broadway in Dayton

Neil Diamond

November 26 - December 1 will feature unforgettable performances of music and storytelling with A Beautiful Noise: The Neil Diamond Musical at the Schuster Center! Created in collaboration with Neil Diamond himself, this uplifting show tells the true story of how a kid from Brooklyn became a chart-topping, show-stopping American rock icon. With his iconic hits like “Sweet Caroline,” “America,” and “Forever in Blue Jeans,” Neil Diamond’s musical journey comes to life on stage in this high-energy, inspiring Broadway production. Don’t miss your chance to experience the magic of Neil Diamond’s legacy, grab your tickets today! 

 

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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.

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