Fort Wayne has much to offer all year round, especially when it comes to family-friendly activities. Autumn is no exception, with an abundance of events and attractions this season drawing visitors like never before.
“It’s no secret that Fort Wayne, specifically downtown Fort Wayne, is growing at never-before-seen paces,” says Preston Wallace, director of marketing at Downtown Fort Wayne. “We have become known for that big-city, small-town feel. Downtown Fort Wayne is incredibly accessible, and the walkability encourages exploration. We have a vibrant public art scene, with countless murals and installations that tell the story of our heritage and bring people together. Our small business owners are indeed the heart of our community.”
The Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo is a particularly memorable destination with engaging events happening throughout the fall season for people of all ages.
“It’s no coincidence that it consistently ranks among the top zoos in the country,” Wallace says.
He also enjoys going to the Kuehnert Dairy Farm Fall Festival with his family every year. There are countless activities for everyone to experience, including a 6-acre corn maze, a hay straw mountain, hayrides and live entertainment.
But Wallace’s absolute favorite fall experience in Fort Wayne?
“Hands down, the Johnny Appleseed Festival,” he says. “I’ve attended this since I was a little kid, and there is so much nostalgia there for me—from the smells, sights and sounds—the food and beverages are always so tasteful, and the crafts and activities are unbeatable. It’s free and family-friendly, and I highly recommend checking it out if you haven’t been before.”
Another favorite event coming up is the annual fundraiser for public art, the “Art This Way Art Crawl: Alley Bash,” held on Friday, Sept. 20, in the art-filled alleyways known as the Double Plus. The event features live musical performances, artists creating work in action, food trucks and cash bars.
Last year’s event drew more than 5,000 attendees, elevating program awareness, spotlighting local artists, and raising critical funding for public art programming that improves Fort Wayne’s quality of life amenities.
“And we expect to see an even more significant number of attendees for this year’s event,” Wallace says.
Then, on Saturday, Oct. 19, Downtown Fort Wayne hosts its 16th annual “Fright Night” event. It’s free and family-friendly, with an activity for everyone who attends, Wallace says.
“The famous ‘Zombie Walk’ kicks off at 3 p.m. that afternoon, where we close a handful of roads in downtown Fort Wayne and flood the streets for a zombie parade,” he says. “Suit up, grab a Fright Night Survival Guide, and head to downtown Fort Wayne for ‘a night to dismember.’”
Most notably, downtown Fort Wayne hosts “HolidayFest” featuring the “Night of Lights” on Wednesday, Nov. 27, where the residents and visitors alike gather in downtown Fort Wayne to kick off the holiday season.
“This is one of the most iconic and nostalgic events throughout northeast Indiana, where the community watches the lighting of Santa and his reindeer, the ‘Merry Christmas’ wreath, and so many more,” Wallace says. “The ‘Night of Lights’ event begins at 5:45 p.m., as downtown businesses and organizations host a variety of activities and embrace the holiday spirit of downtown Fort Wayne throughout the holiday season. This is an event you won’t want to miss.”
While perusing downtown, Wallace recommends dining at one of many great eateries.
“I enjoy Rune, a newer restaurant focused on local and seasonal products in the Broadway Corridor leading into downtown Fort Wayne,” he says. “The space is beautiful, and the dishes are both inventive and familiar. It is undoubtedly created for the foodie looking for the ultimate dining experience.”
He also loves Dana’s, a neighborhood cocktail tavern focusing on French cuisine with a unique beverage program located in the heart of downtown Fort Wayne on The Landing.
“Dana’s pushes the envelope on quality products in a refined atmosphere paired with exceptional hospitality and service,” Wallace says. “It will be a popular spot for the fall season with several exciting pop-up-style brunches, ticketed dinners and themed takeovers.”
Those looking for a great latte or deli-style dish should check out Penny Drip, located in the southeast quadrant of downtown Fort Wayne.
“Penny Drip is a coffee and cocktail bar in a historic building with fantastic patio vibes and views of the bustling, vibrant city landscape,” Wallace says. “Fort Wayne has so many unique dining options to experience.”
Clearly, Fort Wayne has more to offer and experience than most people know.
“As someone born and raised in Fort Wayne, the growth and sense of belonging constantly inspire me,” Wallace says. “I have the privilege of witnessing firsthand all the amazing opportunities Fort Wayne has for people of all walks of life to enjoy. I’m so proud to call this place home, and I hope people take the time to explore what makes us unique while making lasting memories with their loved ones this fall season.”
To stay connected and for more information, go to DowntownFortWayne.com.
Everyone’s Falling for Fort Wayne
