As 2025 draws to a close and the anticipation of a fresh start builds, there's no better way to bid adieu to the current chapter and welcome the new one than with a spectacular New Year's Eve celebration. Get ready to embark on a journey of festivities, glittering lights, and joyous moments with this guide to things to do in Dayton as your compass to navigating the myriad ways to ring in the new year in style.
1. Turn Back Time! New Year's Eve at Marriott at the University of Dayton
Bid farewell to the current year and welcome the new one with an unforgettable celebration at the Marriott at the University of Dayton. Enjoy a night filled with live dueling piano performances, delicious food, and exciting dancing. From a gourmet buffet and late-night snacks to a midnight countdown and champagne toast, this event promises an incredible start to the New Year. Single and group ticket pricing options are both available for purchase!
2. Czech Club New Year's Eve Celebration
Ring in the New Year with joyous rhythms and infectious melodies as the Frank Moravcik Band takes center stage at the American Czechoslovakian Club's New Year's Dance! This lively celebration is not just about midnight; it's an homage to the Czech-Slovak New Year, set to begin at 6:00 p.m. our time. Join in the festivities, starting with a delightful social hour and appetizers, creating the perfect prelude to an afternoon of spirited dancing. As the clock approaches 6:00 p.m., anticipate a thrilling New Year's countdown and raise a glass of champagne to welcome the Czech-Slovak New Year in style.
Admission: $25.00 Members | $26.00 Non-Members
3. Silent Disco and Ball Drop at The Brightside
This year, The Brightside Music & Event Venue will host the eighth spectacular year of Dayton's ball drop tradition and it will definitely be an unforgettable night with the charming Zac Pitts as host, guiding you through the festivities, and the renowned Dayton's Silent Disco holding down the dance floor. As the clock strikes midnight, raise your glass for a toast, marking the perfect start to a brand-new year. Buy a 10 pack of tickets for you and your friends to attend and SAVE!
4. New Year's Eve Skate at RiverScape MetroPark
Looking for a unique twist on ringing in the New Year? Look no further when you glide into 2026 at RiverScape MetroPark! Lace up your skates and twirl into the New Year with family and friends, surrounded by the picturesque winter landscape. The crisp air, joyful atmosphere, and the thrill of skating make this New Year's Eve celebration a memorable experience for everyone. Whether you're a seasoned skater or stepping onto the ice for the first time, RiverScape provides the perfect backdrop for a day of fun and laughter, setting the tone for a fantastic year ahead. The rink will be open from 11 a.m to 8 p.m. Need a break? Enjoy delicious treats from the concession area inside the Comfort Tent, Presented by Butler Heating, Air Conditioning and Plumbing.
5. Bistecca New Year's Dinner at the Hotel Ardent
Enjoy an unforgettable evening featuring a luxurious 4-course meal crafted by the culinary team at the Hotel Ardent's Bistecca. Indulge in exquisite flavors, fine wine, and festive ambiance as we celebrate the new year together. Enjoy warm hospitality, festive ambiance, and a toast to new beginnings. The Hotel Ardent will also offer a special New Year's Eve package which includes a four-course dinner for two in Bistecca, plus overnight accommodations in a comfortable, sophisticated guest room to ring in the New Year! It will be an unforgettable evening with steaks, seafood, and handcrafted cocktails before the ball drops.
6. The Foundry's New Year's Eve Roaring '20s Party
Searching for a swingin’ New Year's Eve party in Dayton? The Foundry’s Roaring ‘20s party might be what you’re looking for! Enjoy gourmet food from their extensive buffet: Raw Bar, Pasta Bar, Entree Bar, Charcuterie, 1920s Theme Appetizers, Salads, Assorted Desserts (served until 11 p.m.), desserts, beer, wine, cocktails, mocktails, live DJ and dancing. The countdown to midnight will include complimentary bubbles. The Foundry’s New Year's Eve Roaring 1920's Party is a celebration for guests 21 years and up.
BONUS PICK: Eat, Dink, and Ring in the New Year
Looking for something a little different this New Year's? Ring in 2026 with an evening of pickleball and celebrations at Dayton's recently opened Black Barn Pickleball, 4740 Linden Avenue, from 7:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. Enjoy an unforgettable New Year’s Eve filled with pickleball, food, fun, and festive vibes. Admission is $25 members, $30 non-members, and includes plenty of food & non-alcoholic drinks provided (or BYO drink or BYOB + bring your own cooler), open play pickleball, and games + prizes. Space is limited, and you can make your reservations online.
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As the year draws to a close, Dayton invites you to bid farewell to 2025 and embrace the arrival of 2026 with a selection of exciting New Year's Eve celebrations. Be sure to visit our Calendar of Events for a full selection of things to see and do.
Whichever event you choose, Dayton promises an unforgettable start to the new year, filled with music, laughter, and memorable moments. Cheers to a fantastic 2026 and a safe, healthy holiday! Be sure to watch our blog for our bucket list of 26 things to do in Dayton in 2026.
