
What We Learned at IDA’s Place Matters 2026
This May, members of our team traveled to Madison, Wisconsin for the International Downtown Association (IDA)’s Place Matters conference—and came back energized, challenged, and full of ideas.

This May, members of our team traveled to Madison, Wisconsin for the International Downtown Association (IDA)’s Place Matters conference—and came back energized, challenged, and full of ideas.

Middle Waves returns to Headwaters Park with a lineup spanning indie pop, pop-punk, regional Mexican, and experimental rock. Here’s why the festival still matters — and why showing up this year means more than ever.

Say hello to the DTFW Summer Series!
In 2026, DTFW is bringing back a beloved Downtown tradition, and introducing two exciting new experiences as part of this new event series. Whether you’re sneaking out of the office for a midday break, looking for a fun evening with the family, or just want to explore the best of what Downtown has to offer, this series was made for you.

FORT WAYNE, Ind. – Downtown Fort Wayne and Art This Way announce that internationally recognized artist duo Studio Giftig will

FORT WAYNE, Ind. – We thank the Mayor and City of Fort Wayne for their work to address homelessness in our community,

Check out DTFW’s spring and summer festival guide, and don’t forget to save the dates!

A little box with big heart, the Downtown Favorites gift box celebrates our community by showcasing local makers and small businesses that bring Downtown Fort Wayne to life—perfectly packaged for gifting and spreading local love.

As the days get longer, so does the list of ways you can get outside in Downtown Fort Wayne. From riverfront mornings to ballpark nights, DTFW’s spring calendar is stacked with activities for everyone.

With locations already established in Angola and Middlebury, illumé has brought its full suite of aesthetic and wellness services to the heart of DTFW. We sat down with owner and medical aesthetician Amanda Taylor to learn more about the philosophy behind the brand, what makes them stand out, and why Downtown felt like the right fit.

Thanks for checking out the 2026 Fort Wayne Garden Party window display contest! Voting has concluded and our winners are:

If you’re looking to start a regular breakfast routine, Downtown has you covered. Whether you’re looking for a cozy diner to settle into, a grab-n-go option for those hectic mornings, or a brunch-worthy spot to start off your weekend, there are so many places to rise and dine!

Downtown Fort Wayne is having quite the year. In addition to a 42% expansion of the Downtown district itself, the city just welcomed an upgraded DORA (Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area) on January 15, creating one seamless, walkable zone—with more places to grab a drink and more freedom to roam.

Downtown is officially growing. After years of thoughtful planning and conversations with property owners across the city, Downtown Fort Wayne has expanded by a whopping 42%. We asked the DTFW team what they’re most excited about as they grow into this next chapter. Here’s what they had to say!

Whether you’re celebrating romance, friendship, or just treating yourself to something special, here’s your guide to making amazing Valentine’s and Galentine’s experiences that don’t require reservations made three weeks ago—plus a few still-available events that’ll make you look like you totally had it together all along!

FORT WAYNE, Ind. – In 2026, Art This Way, a program of Downtown Fort Wayne, proudly celebrates a decade of

A little box with big heart, the Downtown Favorites gift box celebrates our community by showcasing local makers and small businesses that bring Downtown Fort Wayne to life—perfectly packaged for gifting and spreading local love.

FORT WAYNE, Ind. – Downtown Fort Wayne, in partnership with the City of Fort Wayne, announced today the expansion of

From precision haircuts and permanent makeup to luxury spa treatments and classic barbershop experiences, DTFW is home to some of the most talented beauty professionals in the region.

For this installment of our Bartender Spotlight series, we head to Mercado. Equally known for their celebrated Mexi-cali fare, Mercado boasts an extensive list of agave spirits and an exciting cocktail menu. We chatted with Victoria Lopez about some of her favorite spirits and cocktails—and we raided her personal recipe book to learn how to make the perfect mole regio.

A little box with big heart, the Downtown Favorites gift box celebrates our community by showcasing local makers and small businesses that bring Downtown Fort Wayne to life—perfectly packaged for gifting and spreading local love.

Through DTFW’s Yiftee gift card, giftees can shop at over 45 Downtown retailers, restaurants, and entertainment venues. Here’s why you should consider this local gift card for your holiday shopping!

FORT WAYNE, Ind. – Shop local during Holly Shopping, presented by ProFed Credit Union and Downtown Fort Wayne, on Small

FORT WAYNE, Ind. – HolidayFest featuring the Night of Lights, presented by Lutheran Health Network and Downtown Fort Wayne, returns