BuskerFest returns to Downtown Fort Wayne for its 14th season with circus-themed entertainment and inclusive experiences

FORT WAYNE, Ind. – Downtown Fort Wayne will come alive with vibrant street performances on Saturday, May 17, 2025, as BuskerFest, presented by Downtown Fort Wayne and Centier Bank, returns for its 14^th season from 3:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. This free, family-friendly festival transforms key streets into a dynamic open-air stage, overflowing with energy, creativity, and exciting surprises. Performance locations span West Main Street and Berry Street, including South Calhoun Street and Harmony Court.

This year’s circus-themed lineup features a variety of performers, including musicians, magicians, acrobats, fire dancers, aerialists, and more.

Featured performers include:

• Genesis Outreach, presenting a Preview of Jesus Christ Superstar
• Cincinnati Circus, bringing back the thrilling Wheel of Death with an exciting new twist
• Twisted Rhythm, an award-winning fusion of dance, acrobatics, and comedy
• Kitchen Sink Theatre, offering a special performance designed for audiences of all abilities
• Twist and Twirl Aerial Fitness, showcasing aerial artistry set to the music of Wicked
• Arthur Murray Dance Centers, presenting lively dance showcases and public lessons
• Mystic Splendor, captivating audiences with a fire-filled, fantasy-inspired performance
• Pyroscope, closing the festival with a breathtaking fire performance

Featured musicians include:

• ta’korei
• Hustle 54
• Kangaroo Kourt

Thanks to funding provided by a Mighty Money Grant from AWS Foundation, the festival can expand its inclusive offerings, including the Sensory Stroll and a special performance by Kitchen Sink Theatre. The Sensory Stroll returns for its second season, a peaceful retreat designed in collaboration with AWS Foundation and My Autism Ally. This inclusive space features interactive sensory experiences and calming activities, offering a break from the hustle and bustle for those seeking a quieter environment.

The ever-popular Circus Competition returns at 5:30 p.m. on the Main Street Pitch, where spectators can cheer on performers—or even compete—for a chance to win Downtown Fort Wayne Yiftee gift cards. A special guest emcee will announce the competition’s winner.

The celebration continues after the final fire performance with the BuskerFest Afterparty from 9:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m. at The Landing. The Afterparty features a live DJ set from She Cut It and a high-energy performance from Neustalgic Grooves, a Fort Wayne-based street dance program deeply rooted in Hip-Hop culture. Specializing in Breaking, Popping, and Locking, Neustalgic Grooves blends art, movement, and music while staying true to the core elements of Hip-Hop. The Afterparty is open to all and falls within the Downtown Fort Wayne Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area (DORA).

Street parking is free on Saturdays. For parking details, go to DowntownFortWayne.com/parking.

For the full schedule, performer lineup, and event map, please go to BuskerFestFW.com.

BuskerFest 2025 is presented by Downtown Fort Wayne and Centier Bank, and sponsored by WANE 15, OUTFRONT Media, Fort Wayne Newspapers, 97.3 WMEE, T-Mobile, Light & Bruening, and SST Services.