Curated

APRIL 8, 2027 | 6–9 PM

CURATED offers guests the opportunity to sample a variety of handcrafted cocktails created by the region's top bartenders. With a mission-driven focus on art conservation, the event raises funds to preserve and protect works from the DAI's collection while giving guests the chance to learn more about the museum's ongoing efforts to care for and safeguard Dayton's artistic heritage.

This event will feature several different cocktails created by local bartenders. Each attending guest will receive a punch card, allowing them to sample 8 drinks of their choice and enjoy small bites from Bernstein’s Fine Catering. Each bartender participating will compete in two donate-to-vote competitions, awarding winners for the crowd-favorite cocktail and the most creative bar decorations. Winners will receive a prize basket from the DAI, as well as bragging rights.

 

Buy Tickets

Tickets for CURATED are not available; please check back later. 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

This Year's Event

CURATED 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 an additional four-punch tasting card 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

WAYS TO SUPPORT CURATED

SPONSORSHIP
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! To sponsor the event, please contact Mike Griest at mgriest@daytonart.org or 937-223-5277 ext.108.


Sponsor CURATED

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. Please check back for more information when we get closer to the event date. Thank you!

Volunteer Sign Up

CURATED 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.

CURATED 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.

 
 

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 preserving the museum’s collection—turning each vote into a meaningful contribution to saving Dayton’s art.

 
Bartender serving drinks at curated

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 the conservation of 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
 

Thank You to Our Generous 2026 CURATED Sponsors

Presenting Sponsor

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Patron Sponsor
Bladecutter’s, Inc.

Supporting Sponsor
Susan Ayers

Additional Support
Ed Smith Flowers and Gifts
The Reserve on Third
John A. Rossi Photography

 

FAQs

How many people attend?

Curated averages 215 attendees.

What is the dress code?

There is no specific dress code for Curated; typical attire includes business dress, cocktail party attire or smart casual.

What accessibility accommodations are available?

The Dayton Art Institute is committed to being a museum for all. Event entrances and exits are fully accessible, and the museum provides wheelchairs and walkers free of charge. See more info on museum accessibility here.

Is my ticket purchase tax-deductible?

A portion of your purchase may be considered tax-deductible; consult your tax professional for guidance. Deductibility amounts are included in ticket purchase receipts.

I bought a ticket, but my guest information has changed. What do I do?

Please contact the Signature Events Coordinator, Audrey Starr, at astarr@daytonart.org or 937-223-5277 x211.

I bought a ticket, but my guest information has changed. What do I do?

Please contact the signature events coordinator, Audrey Starr, at astarr@daytonart.org or 937-223-5277 x211.

Will there be non-alcoholic drink options?

Curated cocktail tastings are organized by our featured bartenders, so the availability of alcohol-free versions varies, but some do offer mocktail versions of their cocktail tastings. Complimentary water is always available, and there is a cash bar with Coca-Cola products and non-alcoholic beverages available for purchase.

I still have questions. Who can I contact?

Please contact the Signature Events Coordinator, Audrey Starr, at astarr@daytonart.org or 937-223-5277 x211.

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