Powers Hamburgers is many things. Sure, it’s a diner. But it’s also a community landmark. An icon of Americana. The only remaining relic of a beloved Midwestern franchise that dates all the way back to 1935. The keys may have changed hands a few times since it opened its first Fort Wayne location in 1940, but the Powers name endures, much like some of the handwritten, hand-me-down recipes from original founder Leo Powers, still used today in their Coney and chili sauces.
When you walk into the 722-square-foot burger joint, your brain floods with nostalgia as your senses flood with the aroma of grilled onions—a scent that’s synonymous with their famous sliders. But it’s more than just the notable namesake that keeps Powers thriving more than eight decades later. It’s their commitment to the region that really makes them special. They source their ground beef locally from Didier Meats. They get their burger buns from Aunt Millie’s, another famed Midwestern institution. Their tiny space forces you to get cozy with fellow patrons. Doing business like that isn’t just how you build yourself up, it’s how you create community.
With a legacy like Powers, it’s no surprise that for their 85th anniversary, they had to go big. July 10th kicks off Powers Fest—a multi-day celebration of Powers pride that culminates in (hopefully) a new world record for the burger legends. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect at Powers Fest:
Thursday, July 10: Powers After Hours
Powers will be open until 2 a.m. serving up sliders; with a free coffee mug going to the first 12 Powers Packs (pack of 12 sliders) sold after midnight.
Saturday, July 12: Family Day
Families are encouraged to bring the whole crew to Powers for kids’ meals, face painting, and balloon creations.
Monday, July 14: Vintage Car Show
Powers is hosting a car show—register in-person for one of the available spots!
Tuesday, July 15: Slider-eating Contest
Think you can beat the current record of 20 sliders? Register at the door to reserve your spot. Seats are limited; admission is first come, first served. Learn more here.
Wednesday, July 16: World Record Day
Be a part of burger history, and help Powers set a single-day slider sales record! All you have to do is stop by on the 16th and order their signature sliders. What an easy lift! Sliders for you, a world record for them…sliders for you. It’s a win-win!
To help kick the celebrations off, both Indiana Governer Mike Braun and Fort Wayne Mayor Sharon Tucker have issued proclamations, recognizing Powers at the “Slider Capital of the World”—an honorary title that Powers has more than lived up to.
“We’re super excited to be recognized as the Slider Capital of the World! And we’re proud to keep it locally owned. Powers is celebrating 85 years, and we want to continue the legacy for another 85 years. We’d like to personally thank Fort Wayne and our surrounding communities for all their support; without them Powers wouldn’t exist!” – Panos Bourounis, Co-Owner
Show Powers Hamburgers some love during Powers Fest!
Follow them on social media to stay up-to-date on the festivities—and their quest to make a new world record:
- Facebook: facebook.com/PowersHamburgers
- Instagram: instagram.com/powershamburgers
About the writer
Molly Conner is a Fort Wayne native, freelance writer, and digital marketer. Having lived in Downtown Fort Wayne throughout her twenties, she loves watching her stomping grounds grow. Passionate about storytelling and community, she’s eager to tell Downtown Fort Wayne’s story piece-by-piece—exploring the people and places that make it unique.
Have a story to share? Shoot her an email!