Curated

April 9, 2026  •  6–9 PM

Back for its second year, Curated offers guests an opportunity to sample a variety of handcrafted cocktails created by the region’s best bartenders.

With a mission-based focus on art conservation, the event raises funds to preserve and protect an object from our collection and provides an opportunity to learn more about our efforts to save Dayton’s art. 

Each bartender participating will compete in two donate-to-vote competitions: Best Cocktail and Best Bar Decor. Winners will receive a prize basket (and bragging rights!).

This Years Event

Event Schedule & Activities

This event features light bites by Bernstein’s Fine Catering, easy listening from DJ Street, and dozens of different cocktails created by 20 of our area’s best bartenders. 

Each guest receives a punch card for eight tastings, with additional four-punch tasting cards available for $25. A cash bar is also available for non-cocktail beverages. 

• 5:45 PM: Doors Open
• 6 PM: Event Begins
• 8:30 PM: Last Call
• 8:45 PM: Last Pour & Donate-to-Vote Winners Announced
• 9 PM: Event Ends

Buy Tickets

Tickets are available at the link below starting February 26. Event held rain or shine. No refunds and no rain checks for any reason. Participants must be at least 21 years old, and must produce a valid photo identification upon checking into the event. No exceptions will be made.

Buy Tickets

Become a Sponsor

Sponsorship plays a vital role in making Curated possible and impactful. Sponsors directly support art experiences, education, and opportunities that bring our community together while gaining meaningful visibility for your organization and aligning your brand with a cause that matters. Together, we can ensure art is available and accessible to all, all year long. Thank you!

[BUTTON: SPONSOR SALES LINK] Still Needed

Volunteer

Volunteers are the heart of our events, and your time, energy, and passion make a meaningful difference at every level. By volunteering, you help create a welcoming, well-organized and memorable experience for everyone involved while supporting key fundraisers that bring our mission to life. Together, we can make an impact that lasts far beyond event day. Thank you!

Volunteer Sign Up

Donate to Vote for Best Cocktail & Best Bar Décor 

From its inception, Curated has featured a playful yet impactful donate‑to‑vote competition that invites guests to directly support art conservation while sampling crafted cocktails. This interactive element not only adds excitement and friendly competition, but also channels additional fundraising toward the preservation of the museum’s collection—turning each vote into a meaningful contribution to saving Dayton’s art.

[DONATE-TO-VOTE LINK] Still Needed

Directions & Parking

This event takes place at the Dayton Art Institute, located at 456 Belmonte Park North, Dayton, OH 45405. Enter at the main museum doors upon arrival.

Parking is provided at no cost at the museum. Reserved parking for patrons with disabilities is available. Overflow parking is across the street in the Masonic Temple lower lot or on-street in the surrounding neighborhood.

Event History

Curated: Cocktails for Conservation was introduced by the Dayton Art Institute in 2025 as a new signature fundraising event with a mission‑based focus on art conservation. Designed to bring together art, community and craft cocktails, the inaugural event raised funds to support the preservation of a significant work from the museum’s permanent collection.

Due to its early success and strong community engagement, Curated returned in 2026 for its second year, continuing its unique model of pairing locally crafted cocktails with direct support for conserving treasured works of art. Today, Curated reflects the DAI’s commitment to innovative fundraising and stewardship of the region’s cultural heritage.

The following pieces have been restored thanks to funds from Curated:

• Bidri Huqqa (Water Pipe) Bowl with Roses, Artist Unknown (India, Mughal Empire)
• Flowers Number 6 by Florine Stettheimer Store Front by Robert J. Smith
• Winter by Georgina Klitgaard

Event Policies

Event held rain or shine. No refunds and no rain checks for any reason. Participants must be at least 21 years old, and must produce a valid photo identification upon checking into the event. No exceptions will be made.

Please refrain from cosmetics, hair products and clothing that contain glitter in any form. Sequins are permitted. Glitter is incredibly dangerous to art objects.

We are a non-smoking museum. All tobacco products are only permitted outside in the designated smoking area adjacent to the main entrance.

A coat check is available at this event, as well as safe storage for large bags and umbrellas.

FAQs

Learn More About Signature Events

The DAI hosts five signature events and four mini events each year, offering exciting ways to support the museum while enjoying unforgettable experiences.

Learn More