See the Dayton Film That Won an Ohio Valley Emmy Award

It’s Christmas in July for “A Very Carillon Christmas,” the 35-minute holiday special that won an Ohio Valley Emmy Award, presented by The National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences, on July 19. Returning to his hometown in Dayton, actor Gary Sandy starred in the film alongside president and CEO of Carillon Historical Park Brady Kress. A project rooted in highlighting the park and the city’s culture, the film puts a seasonal spin on the innovation Dayton prides itself on. 

“I tried to pack in as many Dayton inventions as possible,” Kress said in a July 22, 2025, press release. “Given that the city once held more patents per capita than any in America, I couldn’t possibly fit everything.” 

The plot follows two characters embarking on a mission to save Christmas as they journey through Dayton’s quintessential landmarks, with creations ranging from airplanes and automobile starter motors to events that shaped American culture, like hosting the first NFL game. The film also highlights Gem City originals like the Cheez-It and common cash register. 

With an extensive career spanning television, Broadway and soap operas, Sandy worked on the project alongside Kress with the support of director Michael Webber and his company MainSail Productions. 

“When we set out to film ‘A Very Carillon Christmas,’ we wanted a fun way to share Carillon Park and Dayton inventions,” Kress said in the same July 22, 2025, release. “We never dreamed it would be nominated for an Emmy, let alone win one. It’s a huge honor.”

For more information, visit daytonhistory.org.

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