Family events in Fort Wayne, IN

Cinema Center’s 50th Anniversary Block Party celebrates fifty years of independent film with a free event open to everyone, featuring film screenings, live performances, music, food, and more. Programming includes an outdoor screening of Back to the Future in partnership with Downtown Fort Wayne and a special anniversary screening of The Big Sleep, the first film ever shown by Cinema Center. The lineup also features a story slam by The Trap Door, a live performance by Fort Wayne Dance Collective, and music by Nomad Night Club. Limited edition merchandise will be available from Phan Gear and Nick Ferran, and food trucks will include Bravas and The Creperie. An interactive storybooth by Purdue Fort Wayne’s College TV is included. Additional details will be announced soon.

Bikes on the Bricks brings a family-friendly motorcycle night to Dynamo Alley at Electric Works. Hosted by the Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association Chapter 14-6, it welcomes riders and the wider community for bikes, conversation, entertainment, and camaraderie. Explore hundreds of motorcycles, meet fellow enthusiasts, and support a good cause. Whether you have been riding for years or are simply curious, there is something here for everyone.

Indie rock from Thinning caps off the Live and Local season with a free outdoor concert at The Landing in downtown Fort Wayne. The evening focuses on local music and community, with live performance, food, and a lively atmosphere. Presented by WBOI and hosted at The Landing.

Enjoy a community gathering for makers that begins with tours of the TekVenture makerspace, then continues with an evening of games. Attendees are welcome to bring a dish to share for a potluck. This event is free and open to everyone, including nonmembers. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Donations to the 501(c)(3) nonprofit are appreciated.

Celebrate a Candy Land themed father daughter dance featuring music, dancing, and sweet treats. The atmosphere centers on fun and laughter while creating lasting memories together. Registration is available.

Explore an expo filled with reptiles, amphibians, tropical birds, and other small exotic animals. Expect snakes, lizards, and frogs among a wide variety of species, with chances to get hands-on and learn about them, plus the option to take some home. Knowledgeable animal experts will be available to answer questions and help with selecting the right pet. The floor plan features a roomy setup with generous walkways so you can move comfortably and browse at your own pace. In addition to the animals, find feeders and a full range of habitat essentials, including new and preowned tanks and enclosures, as well as heating, lighting, filters, substrate, and other supplies, making it simple to bring a new companion home.

Enjoy a mix of action at Combat Ops Entertainment with four 30 minute sessions that include laser tag, Nerf tag, gel blaster, and axe throwing. Admission is $28 per guest.

BEAT Ensemble is a once-a-month musical play experience for children ages 5 to 12 that focuses on rhythm, teamwork, and creativity in a welcoming group environment. Each themed session offers hands-on time with boomwhackers, Orff instruments, and a range of percussion so beginners and experienced kids alike can take part. Participants practice keeping the beat, collaborating as a group, and building confidence through self-expression and sound exploration while connecting with peers in an inclusive setting that supports a wide range of abilities. Class size is limited to 10 participants, and children may attend independently or with a parent or support staff. Registration closes 48 hours before the session begins. If accommodations are needed, families can share details during registration so Sweetwater and the instructor can provide reasonable supports, with the exception of one-on-one aid, which must be provided by the participant’s own support person. Pricing starts at $10.