Family events in Fort Wayne, IN

The world’s largest and premier gathering for International trucks takes place in the former Heavy-Duty Truck Capital of the World, the birthplace of the legendary Scout. The event spotlights the heritage of International trucks and the enduring legacy of the Scout where it all began.

Edge of Darkness is a premium planetarium presentation lasting 25 minutes, produced by E&S Digital Theater. It showcases scenes captured by key space missions and builds to discoveries from 2015. Fly through the cliffs of comet 67P, examine the bright lights on Ceres, and see the first close-up views of the dwarf binary planet Pluto and Charon and its moons. General admission tickets are required to attend.

Casual Friday brings a mix of soul, pop, rock, and jazz to downtown Fort Wayne as part of the Pearl District Summer Arts Series. This free performance is open to all ages and offers an open-air evening on Pearl Street between The Pearl and the Pearl Street Arts Center. Attendees are welcome to bring chairs and enjoy music with family and friends. Street parking is available downtown, and there are also paid lots and garages within easy walking distance.

Step into an immersive evening where beloved childhood tales and a few lesser-known classics come to life in surprising ways. This interactive production includes spontaneous moments shaped by audience choices, so every performance is different. Conceived, written, directed, and produced by Fort Wayne native Amber Reid, the project carries a mission to support the retention of professionals in Northeast Indiana. Each show is created in collaboration with local artists to craft a singular, locally rooted experience. Presented at The Local Archive, ticket sales help sustain human-made art crafted by real people and aim to leave audiences inspired.

Experience an evening exploration of bat ecology at Eagle Marsh Barn with PFW professor Scott Bergeson, nicknamed Batman. The program begins with a brief talk about Indiana bats, then continues with a guided walk to the mist netting area. The trek out takes place near sunset and the return is after dark. Later in the evening, when bats are most active, participants can watch the mist netting process and, if conditions permit, see bats carefully captured, studied, and released. Light rain does not cancel the program and does not affect the bats. Plan to arrive a little early so the group can start on time. Dress for wet, uneven ground, consider rubber boots or sturdy shoes that can handle shallow water, and bring bug spray, drinking water, and a flashlight.

Returning for a second year, this two day celebration of automotive culture rolls into the Allen County War Memorial Coliseum parking lot. More than 375 vehicles, from custom builds and hot rods to vintage classics, will be on display. Enjoy music, vendors, games, a swap meet, and food while exploring decades of craftsmanship and plenty of gleaming chrome. Car owners can showcase their rides or simply take in the scene, and the experience suits enthusiasts of all ages. Touted as a must attend summer event in Fort Wayne, it offers two full days of automotive history and fun.

Film For All is a free, community-driven movie series dedicated to welcoming audiences throughout Northeast Indiana. Screenings are designed to be sensory friendly for viewers of any age or ability, with the lights kept gently on, subtitles on every film, and a laid back setting where it is fine to move around, make noise, or participate in whatever way feels comfortable. Beyond the film itself, each gathering offers hands-on moments and collaborations with local groups, plus time for families to connect before and after the show. The series exists to open the door to shared cultural moments for everyone, creating an inclusive place to enjoy movies together without barriers. The launch event features E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial, following an alien accidentally stranded on Earth and the 10-year-old Elliott who hides and protects him. As a government team searches for the visitor, Elliott, his brother, and his sister Gertie grow close to their new friend and work to guide him home.

Science Central spotlights how STEM connects to the skilled trades at Career Day. Visitors can explore real-world applications of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, and meet representatives from a wide range of companies, both local and international, representing multiple industries.

Set along the river at The Deck, this Sunday market brings together area vendors and live performances by musicians in a relaxed, welcoming setting. It offers a feel-good atmosphere and a little something extra beyond the basics.

Indiana Wild commemorates 15 years of work in conservation, education, rescue, and culture with an event featuring opportunities to meet animals and shop from vendors. Your Nuts will be one of the vendors.

Before the school year begins, PUSH Foundation hosts a free, family-focused afternoon at Freimann Square that aims to build confidence, connection, and support. Centered on a Back to Basics theme, the program includes a confidence huddle with WNBA Hall of Famer Leslie Johnson and a keynote by Wayne Township Person of the Year Roderick Parker. Attendees can try Back-to-School Bingo for prizes like Sprayground backpacks and JBL speakers, receive complimentary haircuts from Diligent Hands and quick styles from Monarch Flair and Curl Creation Salon, and get creative in a hands-on corner led by local artist Bonjo. DJ Tubbs provides the soundtrack while time-honored games, relay races, and sidewalk chalk activities keep all ages engaged. Community resources and local organizations will be on hand, and offerings include Crumb Crave Gourmet Cookies and D's Lemon Squeeze. Complete a PUSH Passport to pick up a free snack such as popcorn, a snow cone, or cotton candy. The gathering welcomes students, parents, grandparents, teachers, volunteers, and supporters. There is no cost to attend, and school supplies will not be distributed.

Trade cards with friends, then settle in for friendly battles at a welcoming Pokemon League gathering for anyone who enjoys Pokemon. This is a Pokemon sanctioned event. Crafty Coins has written permission from Pokemon to use their imagery to promote it, and anyone else who wishes to use Pokemon images for promotion will need written permission from Pokemon.

Heartland Sings presents a free, family friendly concert at Kreager Park as part of its Summer Season 2025–26 featuring Voices of America. The mobile ART-V stage sets the scene for an easygoing outdoor performance of favorite American hits by vocalists Sangeeta Reddy, Alejandra Sandoval‑Montañez, Seth Allen, and David Bobay with pianist Reggie Berg. This stop marks the conclusion of the summer series at this park. Oh Five Scoop Shop will be on site with hand dipped ice cream and homemade waffle cones. Presented by Music Director Natalie Young and the Heartland Sings creative team.

Summer Storytime unfolds on the riverfront with the Allen County Public Library. Each week centers on a new theme, and this session features Sweet Treats. Across the season, topics include Oceans, Dinosaurs, Pets, Community Helpers, Hats, Ice Cream, Colors, Bunnies, Counting, Construction, Frogs, and Bears. Suitable for every age.

ABO players face the Pine Hills Church Softball Team in a wooden bat league game at World Baseball Academy. All play uses wooden bats, reflecting the league format.

The HEAL Farm Market at Parkview Greenhouse in Fort Wayne features locally grown fruits and vegetables while supporting a health-focused community. Shoppers can find produce from Kurtz Produce, the Burmese Farmers' and Workers' Initiative, and the Parkview Greenhouse. Representatives from WIC and Aging & In-Home Services are available to answer questions about produce vouchers, and interpreter support is provided. Benefits go further with doubling of SNAP up to 20 dollars, as well as WIC and Senior produce vouchers. Accepted payment methods include cash, credit or debit, and VeggieRx. Families are encouraged to bring reusable grocery bags.

Live music fills the Prado Garden at the Foellinger-Freimann Botanical Conservatory with a weekly outdoor series celebrating the region’s artists. This edition features Maleena Felger, a solo guitarist bringing rock, blues, and alternative sounds. Stroll the gardens, settle into the relaxed setting, and enjoy handcrafted beverages and light bites from Café Flora. Outdoor seating is available, lawn chairs are welcome, admission is $1, and no reservations are needed.