Art in the City 2026

Art in the City is Downtown Dayton's annual celebration of the incredible collection of visual and performing arts experiences in our city.
NEW THIS YEAR: 1 MONTH, 3 WAYS TO CELEBRATE!
This year, Art in the City will stretch beyond its typical one-day event to celebrate the arts with FREE opportunities to experience all month long!
The celebration will consist of three main components:
1. ART IN THE CITY KICKOFF FESTIVAL
Saturday, August 1, 1-7 pm
Art in the City pop-ups, hands-on demos, music & more all around downtown
2. SPECIAL EXHIBITS & INSTALLATIONS
Find them throughout downtown, including favorites like the annual Juried Art Show
3. ART EVENTS ALL MONTH LONG
A full month of arts-related events by downtown art organizations and others
More details:
Art in the City Kickoff Event - Saturday, August 1
On the first day of August, we'll kick off the celebration with art of all kinds featured in several hot spots throughout downtown. Offerings will include a variety of Dayton’s best artistic talent - from painting and drawing to music and dance. You can expect the fun to include things like:
- Live performances (dance, theater, music & more)
- Live demonstrations (painting, sculpting, and other art-making)
- Hands-on & interactive activities
- Pop-up performances
- and more!
Watch this space for more details, including a list of hot spots and a schedule of everything to see and do - coming soon!
Check out https://downtowndayton.org/things-to-do/summer-in-the-city/art-in-the-city/ for a calendar of arts-related events planned throughout the month. Be sure to support our great arts organizations and others who plan arts events in our city. Mark your calendar now and plan to experience the arts all month long!