Good morning, Dayton.

With God's Grace turned its free store into Santa's Workshop on Saturday, inviting over 500 children to select a toy and take photos with Mr. and Mrs. Claus.

Local donors and volunteers helped create an event that eased holiday hardships for families.

217 We Care offers mentorship and schoolwork support to Dayton youth, including one-on-one mental health sessions.

Founded in February 2024 amid rising local youth violence, the nonprofit aims to inspire young Black men and others to stay off the streets and build a better future.

Dozens attended a vigil by Montgomery County’s Homeless Solution Policy Board on Friday to honor people who died while homeless; over 4,500 experienced homelessness in 2024.

A line of shoes showed names and ages, and visitors were asked to bring hats + gloves to support those still in need.

Sweet Tooth Candy Store opened its doors this week in Englewood, offering nostalgic candy, sodas, and games along with vintage candy t-shirts and treats priced as low as 10 cents.

The shop provides ample parking (behind the store) and convenient door entry.

Jessica Noes, a 2004 grad from Wright State, manages historic Clifton Mill where 5 million Christmas lights will shine from just after Thanksgiving until Dec.

30. The site attracts thousands and includes a restaurant using mill-ground flour for 12-inch pancakes + a covered bridge light show set to music.

The Ohio Board of Pharmacy banned synthetic kratom products for 180 days in Miami Valley, and local business owner Kenny Bruce (First Choice Kratom) believes the decision will boost natural kratom sales.

Ohio National Guard members returned home from nearly a 10-month deployment to the Middle East at a Saturday ceremony on Dec.20.

They received a hero’s welcome just in time for the holidays while supporting U.S. Central Command operations.

Dana Tatar of Oakwood wins the 2025 Dayton Daily News Holiday Cookie Contest with her White Chocolate Cranberry Jelly Filled Cookies made with her 17-year-old daughter (a repeat win from 2023).

Thirty-nine bakers submitted recipes that bring Dayton together for festive holiday treats.

Dayton parents can try activities like baking, gingerbread house decorating, and sledding to keep kids busy during winter break, while expert resources advise setting a flexible schedule to manage stress (and focus on family time) through the holidays.

The Dayton men’s basketball team ended its 33-game nonconference home winning streak Saturday at UD Arena after losing 64-61 to Liberty.

The Flyers will host Fordham on Dec. 31 at 2 p.m.

A Berry Merry Market

11 AM – 3 PM — The Blue Berry Cafe Kettering — Free entry — Experience festive fun with local vendors and sweet treats for the holiday cheer.

Dayton Ohio Eurogamers Meetup

6:30-11:55 p.m. — Bell, Book & Comic — Free entry — Engage in an evening of board games with fellow enthusiasts of all skill levels.

Deck the Diamond

6-7:30 p.m. — Day Air Ballpark — Ticket prices vary — Experience one of Dayton's top sports events this December with a festive flare.

Deck the Diamond

6-7:30 p.m. — Day Air Ballpark — Ticket prices vary — Celebrate the holiday season with a festive event at the ballpark.

Deck the Diamond

6:00-7:30 p.m. — Day Air Ballpark — Cost info not provided — Celebrate the holiday season with Santa, caroling, and a sparkling light display at the baseball diamond.

New Year's Eve Silent Disco & Ball Drop

8:30 PM – 1:30 AM — The Brightside Music & Event Venue — Tickets vary — Celebrate 2026 with a vibrant Silent Disco and the iconic Ball Drop in Dayton!

Game Jam Workshop

4:30-9:00 PM — Beavercreek Donatos Party Room — Join for pizza and mini-game development in a fun weekend of creativity.

Coffee & Chat Meetup

10-11:30 a.m. — Purebred Coffee Co. — Free entry — Enjoy relaxed conversation and community building over a cup of coffee.

Dayton Battle of the Bands - Week 1

7 PM - 10 PM — The Brightside Music & Event Venue — Series pass required — Experience the electrifying first night of local band battles showcasing alternative and rock music.

Dayton & Cincinnati RV Show

12 PM – 4 PM — Roberts Centre — Free entry — Explore family-friendly RVs and rescue adorable bulldogs at this pet-friendly event.