Family thing to do in Dayton this weekend: An ‘Elf’-themed menu, a Home Depot kids workshop and more

‘Dayton Daily Explore’ aims to give your family an itinerary to fill the weekend and spend time together.
Carillon Historical Park celebrated its 75th anniversary and the 30th annual Ringing in the Holidays on Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025. This year, the privately funded nonprofit’s seasonal fundraiser debuted as the official preview party for A Carillon Christmas, the park’s month-long celebration that runs until Dec. 30. Guests enjoyed live carolers, bell wagon concerts by carillonneur Alan Bowman, a silent auction, festive foods and specialty cocktails served throughout the museum’s exhibits, including a martini ice luge. TOM GILLIAM/CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER

Credit: Tom Gilliam

Credit: Tom Gilliam

Carillon Historical Park celebrated its 75th anniversary and the 30th annual Ringing in the Holidays on Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025. This year, the privately funded nonprofit’s seasonal fundraiser debuted as the official preview party for A Carillon Christmas, the park’s month-long celebration that runs until Dec. 30. Guests enjoyed live carolers, bell wagon concerts by carillonneur Alan Bowman, a silent auction, festive foods and specialty cocktails served throughout the museum’s exhibits, including a martini ice luge. TOM GILLIAM/CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
DAYTON DAILY EXPLORE
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The first full December weekend is packed with festive traditions and magical moments for the whole family.

From historical holiday charm to parades, puppets and Buddy the Elf spaghetti, here’s an itinerary to keep all ages busy:

FRIDAY

5-10 p.m.: A Carillon Christmas

Kick off your weekend with a charming holiday stroll through Carillon Historical Park, where glowing lights, seasonal displays, and nostalgic vibes set the tone for a cozy Christmas season. Perfect for a family night.

Here’s some highlights you will see:

  • Santa 
  • Candy Cane Slopes
  • Carillon Christmas Cafe
  • The Carousel of Innovation ($1 per ride) 
  • Roundhouse Cafe
  • Morris and Hetzel Bakery
  • Midnight Express ($1 per ride)
  • Carillon Park Railroad ($5 per ride)

Save yourself time and buy tickets online.

SATURDAY

9 a.m-noon: Home Depot kids workshop

Start the day with some hands-on holiday fun. The Home Depot workshop lets kids build, create, and take home their own festive project and it’s totally free the first Saturday of every month. Workshops run from 9 a.m.-noon and are work at your own pace. It typically takes us 30 minutes to complete.

Register online to secure your spot.

4-9 p.m.: Miamisburg Holiday Celebration

A wonderful annual tradition that transforms Main Street in Miamisburg into a glowing winter wonderland. We never miss this one.

Highlights by time:

  • 4 p.m. Holiday Bazaar opens with photo ops, letters to Santa, crafts and performances
  • 5:30 p.m. Holiday Parade lights up Main Street
  • 6:15 p.m. Mayor’s Tree Lighting at Riverfront Park
  • 6:30-8 p.m. Photos with Santa + ongoing family activities

Swing by Tom & Dot’s and sample the Buddy the Elf-themed menu including the iconic Buddy’s Spaghetti. Festive, ridiculous and totally photoworthy.

SUNDAY

2-3 p.m.: Gingerbread Jamboree Puppet Show

Wright Memorial Public Library – Oakwood

Join Ralphie the Elf as he attempts to tame the wildly hungry Gingerbread Beast in an interactive puppet performance by River City Puppets. Expect music, laughter, and creative retellings of The Gingerbread Man and Hansel & Gretel. Perfect for ages 6–11.

STAYING IN?

Enjoy hot cocoa and a Christmas classic at home if you’re simply not up to fighting cold temps. Here are a few streaming suggestions:

  • “The Christmas Chronicles” – Netflix
  • “Klaus” – Netflix
  • “Arthur Christmas” – Free on Freevee
  • “Frosty the Snowman” – Often free on YouTube or Peacock seasonal streams

Pile up the blankets, pop the popcorn and let the holiday magic wind you down after a busy weekend.

DAYTON DAILY EXPLORE

This is a series that guides local families with things to do together throughout each weekend. If you have a suggestion to be included, email Writer Pamela Chandler at thechandlercrew3@gmail.com.

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About the Author

Pamela Chandler is a mom who writes the Gem City Family column for the Dayton Daily News. Reach out to her at thechandlercrew3@gmail.com.