Affiliated Events – Big Fort Fest

BIG FORT FEST EVENTS

BIG FORT FORUM

Discover the vibrant heart of Fort Wayne at the BIG FORT FORUM! This exciting event brings together the incredible talent and creativity that thrives right here in our community. Explore a diverse marketplace filled with unique offerings from local vendors, skilled artisans, talented craftspeople, and innovative makers. Connect directly with the people who pour their passion into their creations, and learn more about the amazing organizations that support our city. The BIG FORT FORUM is your chance to celebrate and support the ingenuity and spirit of Fort Wayne! BIG FORT FORUM is Thursday in Headwaters West from 4pm-10pm and Friday & Saturday from 11am-9pm.

BIG FORK FEST

Get ready, Fort Wayne! BIG FORK FEST is coming, bringing you a delicious upgrade to your summer fun! Say goodbye to Junk Food Alley and hello to your new favorite food truck tradition. We’re gathering all your local food truck heroes in one spot, serving up the mouthwatering dishes you know and love. But that’s not all! We’re also bringing in some incredible fair favorites to satisfy every cravings. From local legends to classic treats, BIG FORK FEST is where your summer eats begin! BIG FORK FEST is Thursday in Headwaters West from 4pm-9pm and Friday & Saturday from 11am-9pm.

KICK OFF CONCERT W/ BONE THUGS-N-HARMONY presented by steel dynamics

Big Fort Fest kicks off with an unmissable opening night celebration at Headwaters Park on Thursday, July 10th. Gates will open at 6:00 PM, inviting attendees to arrive early and immerse themselves in the pre-festival atmosphere.
The evening will feature a stellar lineup, headlined by the iconic, Grammy Award-winning group Bone Thugs-n-Harmony, promising a performance filled with their timeless hits. Adding a unique and captivating element to the night is the internet sensation Saxsquatch, known for his distinctive saxophone performances and immersive laser show. The acclaimed POS of the Minneapolis hip-hop collective Doomtree will also take the stage, bringing his dynamic energy and lyrical prowess.
In a showcase of local talent, Fort Wayne artists T-Zank, and Nyzzy Nyce will deliver performances, highlighting the vibrant music scene of the city. Tickets and VIP access for this all-ages event are on sale now. Attendees can anticipate an evening of exceptional music, a welcoming community atmosphere, and a variety of food and beverage options.

FREE: BUBBA SPARXXX W/ SANKOFA

On Friday, July 11th the party continues.
Adding to the excitement, legendary artist Bubba Sparxxx from Athens, Georgia will kick off the night with his iconic energy and southern rap stylings.
In addition, Sankofa will be representing Fort Wayne on this amazing night! A high energy show that is something you don’t want to miss.
Rounding out this stellar lineup are local favorites TMBRWOLF TONE & Rick Moore, representing Fort Wayne and setting the tone for the entire night.

THEORY OF A DEADMAN W/ DOWNSTAIT presneted by 98.9 the bear

Saturday, July 12th, prepare for a night of hard-hitting anthems and unforgettable energy as 98.9 the Bear presents Theory of Deadman. Known for their chart-topping hits that you can hear like “Lowlife,” “Bad Girlfriend,” and “RX (Medicate),” this Canadian quartet has been delivering their signature blend of post-grunge grit and rock swagger for over two decades. From powerful ballads to stadium-shaking rockers, their live performances are legendary, and you won’t want to miss them bring their electrifying show to the heart of Fort Wayne.
Supporting and setting the stage ablaze will be Downstait! This Fort Wayne based band has toured the country, but is returning to their KINGDOM just in time for BFF.
Get there early and don’t miss Hell Came Home, Voice of Sylas, & Painted Red. Don’t miss out on the biggest rock event of the summer in Fort Wayne! General Admission(GA) and VIP tickets are available.

BIG FUN FEST

BIG FUN FEST is going to be a day of HUGE smiles and endless fun! It’s packed with awesome activities for kids of all ages! We’re talking epic dance parties to bust a move, bouncy inflatables to jump for joy, sporty games to get active, and cool activity stations hosted by some of your favorite community friends. And the best part? It’s all absolutely FREE! BIG FUN FEST is at Headwaters East on Saturday July 12th from 11am-6pm!

BIG FORT FEST AFFILIATED EVENTS

FWMoA CHALK WALK

25 years of Fort Wayne’s most creative citizens contribute to the largest community art project in the region presented by Partner’s 1st Federal Credit Union from July 12-13. The Fort Wayne Museum of Art Chalk Walk has been a trademark event held on Main Street in downtown Fort Wayne since 2000. This family-friendly event is based on an Italian tradition of street painting that dates to the 16th century, known as i madonnari (street painters). Using pastels, artists of varying levels of experience may choose to reproduce existing artworks or create their own in their designated square.

Prizes will be awarded including People’s Choice! Voting for People’s Choice begins at 1pm on Saturday July 12 and closes at 3pm on Sunday July 13. The event is free and open to the public. General admission to see exhibitions in the museum is free for FWMoA members, $10 adults, $8 students and seniors 65+, and $25 for families. General admission is free for everyone on Thursdays 5-8pm. Veterans, active military personnel, and their families receive free general admission. FWMoA gallery hours are Tuesday-Saturday 10-6pm, Thursdays 10-8pm, and Sundays 12-5pm. For more information, please visit https://fwmoa.org/event/chalkwalk2025/ or call 260-422-6467.

YLNI FARMERs market

The YLNI Farmers Market, spearheaded by the Young Leaders of Northeast Indiana (YLNI), is a vibrant and essential hub in Fort Wayne’s downtown core. Located at the historic Barr Street Market, a site that has hosted public markets for over a century, the YLNI Farmers Market proudly upholds this tradition by connecting the community with local producers. It operates year-round, with a bustling summer market at the corner of Barr and Wayne Streets and a robust winter market in the Olde East End Building.

As a “producer-only” market, every item sold is personally made or grown by vendors from Allen and surrounding counties, ensuring fresh, local, and unique offerings. Shoppers can find a diverse array of products, including fresh produce, organic fruits and vegetables, meats, baked goods, homemade crafts, and much more. Beyond commerce, the YLNI Farmers Market fosters community engagement through live music, activities for children (like the “Power of Produce” program), and collaborations with local non-profit organizations. Consistently voted Fort Wayne’s Best Farmers Market by Readers’ Choice and recognized as Indiana’s #1 Farmers Market by the American Farmland Trust for multiple consecutive years, the YLNI Farmers Market is a testament to community spirit, local talent, and a commitment to healthy, vibrant living.

heART IN THE PARK

heART in the Park, presented by heART of the City, is am amazing annual art market held in Fort Wayne, Indiana, transforming the picturesque Freimann Square into an open-air celebration of local artistic talent. This event carries on a cherished community tradition, building on the legacy of “Art in the Park.”

heART in the Park offers a unique opportunity for both established and emerging local artists from Northeast Indiana to showcase and sell their multidisciplinary works. Visitors can explore a diverse array of creations, connect directly with artists, and immerse themselves in a lively atmosphere. The event often coincides with the Fort Wayne Museum of Art’s Chalk Walk, creating a weekend filled with extensive artistic engagement in downtown Fort Wayne. As an all-volunteer, artist-led collective, heART of the City’s commitment to fostering a thriving local arts scene makes “heART in the Park” a significant cultural highlight in the city’s calendar.

LAWTON PARK FLEA MARKET

The Lawton Park Flea Market is a long-standing and beloved institution in Fort Wayne, Indiana, offering a unique outdoor shopping experience within the scenic setting of Lawton Park. Known for its eclectic array of goods and lively atmosphere, this seasonal market draws a diverse crowd of shoppers, bargain hunters, and local vendors from across the region.

At the Lawton Park Flea Market, visitors can explore countless booths filled with a wide variety of items, including antiques, collectibles, vintage clothing, household goods, tools, electronics, books, and much more. It’s a place where hidden treasures can be discovered, and every visit promises a different selection of unique finds. Beyond the diverse merchandise, the market also serves as a vibrant community gathering spot, providing a platform for local entrepreneurs and a relaxed, open-air environment for people to connect. The Lawton Park Flea Market embodies the spirit of discovery and community, making it a distinctive and cherished part of Fort Wayne’s local culture.

POWERS FEST

Powers Fest 2025 will include a slider eating competition, a record setting attempt for most sliders sold in a day, vintage car show, and Powers After Hours promotions. Plan to come out and join the fun as we celebrate our 85th year serving Fort Wayne and see why Powers is the “Slider Capital of the World”.