The Ohio Challenge Balloon Festival
When: July 18-20
Location: Smith Park: 500 Tytus Ave., Middletown
Description: One of the area’s most popular festivals, the Ohio Challenge will feature carnival rides, a car show, live music, skydiving and more. Various craft and food vendors will also be in attendance.
The Historic Sidney Theatre presents ‘Annie’
When: July 18-20
Location: 120 W. Poplar St., Sidney
Description: A production of the iconic Broadway Musical “Annie” will be performed at the Historic Sidney Theatre this weekend.
When: 6-10 p.m. July 18
Location: Cincinnati Nature Center: 4949 Tealtown Road, Milford
Description: The Cincinnati Nature Center’s upcoming Hoots and Hops event will feature various beers for guests to try, as well as opportunities for guests to meet various birds of prey. Local restaurants will also provide samples for guests, with full dishes available to purchase. This event is only for those age 21 or older, and tickets are limited.
History, Mystery, Mayhem and Murder Tour
When: 11 a.m.-1 p.m. July 19
Location: 118 Woodland Ave., Dayton
Description: Featuring graphic tales of murder and crime, Woodland Cemetery warns guests its upcoming tour may not be appropriate for all ages. Guests will meet at the gates of Eichelberger Plaza.
When: Noon-6 p.m. July 19
Location: The Morrow Arts Center: 10 Miranda St., Morrow
Description: Guests are encouraged to bring their fluffy companions to the Morrow Art Center’s upcoming Paws and Pints festival this weekend. There will be a splash zone for the pets to cool off, photo opportunities, local vendors selling pet accessories and services, an agility course and more.
Let’s Go Birding Together Pride Walk
When: 1:30-3:30 p.m. July 19
Location: 1000 Aullwood Road, Dayton
Description: Originally scheduled during Pride Month, Aullwood Audubon was forced to delay this LGBTQ+ friendly birdwatching event due to weather. No experience is necessary for this tour. Tickets are free, but space is limited.
When: 7 p.m. July 19
Location: 65 Millard Drive, Franklin
Description: Known for touring with county legends such as Morgan Wallen and Willie Nelson, Larry Fleet will perform at J.D. Legends this weekend. Doors open at 6 p.m.
Let’s Sing Taylor at the Rose Music Center
When: 7 p.m. July 19
Location: 6800 Executive Blvd., Huber Heights
Description: The music of pop icon Taylor Swift will be performed by this tribute act at the Rose Music Center on Saturday. As the title suggests, this popular touring show encourages guests to sing along. This show is not affiliated with or endorsed by Swift herself.
Adult Spelling Bee at N.E.W. Ales Brewing
Credit: Nick Graham
Credit: Nick Graham
When: 1 p.m. July 20
Location: 1330 Manchester Ave., Middletown
Description: MidPointe Library Middletown and N.E.W. Ales Brewing will team up for a spelling bee specifically for those age 18 and older this weekend. Guests will compete in teams of four for a chance to win gift cards to the bar’s taproom and other local businesses.
Roaming Gnomes at Lost Creek Reserve
When: 4 p.m. July 20
Location: 2385 E. OH 41, Troy
Description: This weekend, Lost Creek Reserve will host a storybook trail for guests based on the book “How to Grow Happiness.” As families traverse the trail, they are encouraged to look out for mischievous gnomes wandering the grounds. Guests will be able to take a gnome home with them, as well as a craft inspired by the creatures.
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