It’s February—a month that many Hoosiers have come to dread for its frigid forecast and early sunsets. The weather’s enough to put many into hibernation mode. But why not try to embrace Indiana’s cold winter months with some festive activities and camaraderie? That very question is what spurred the creation of Weather the Fort—now in its ninth year!
Weather the Fort was originally founded by a group of friends—Adam James, Michael Niezer, Ted Pappert, Hannah Stork, Kelsey Rowe, and John Felts—who felt the Fort Wayne community was missing an opportunity to celebrate winter together beyond the holiday season. They wanted to create an event that could bring out adults and families alike for merriment and entertainment, all while enjoying the brisk fresh air. Thus, Weather the Fort was born.
In 2023, the torch was passed to Downtown Fort Wayne to keep the beloved winter block party going. This year, DTFW is happy to host its second round of Weather the Fort on The Landing this Saturday, transforming the street into a whimsical winter wonderland.
Magical things happen when we force ourselves to get a little uncomfortable. So gather your people, bundle up, and head to The Landing for a winter festival to remember!
Here’s what you can expect at this year’s Weather the Fort:
Imbibe with the new kids on the block — Dana’s and Night Train
Have you been curious about The Landing’s upcoming drinking destinations, Dana’s and Night Train? This is your chance to check them out before their brick-and-mortar locations open in place of the old Columbia Street West!
Dana’s and Night Train, both concepts of Be Better Hospitality, are offering pop-up bars at Weather the Fort—with local craft beer tappings, hot mulled wine, cocktails and NA beverages. Get an early preview (and a sip) of what they’re all about!
More of a coffee drinker? Travelin’ Tom’s Coffee Truck will be on-site serving up iced, frozen, and hot specialty beverages.
Enjoy live entertainment, for adults and kids
Throughout the celebration, be prepared for special performances and appearances:
- Warm your eardrums with live music from local legends, Wallen Road and The Be Colony!
- Bring the kiddos along for a magical meet-and-greet with Anna and Kristoff from Frozen!
- Enjoy a little fire with your ice with an energetic performance from Pyroscope Entertainment!
Get creative with interactive art
In addition to Weather the Fort’s live entertainment, there’s an opportunity to enjoy some unique artistic displays and activities:
- Flex your inner artist with a session of interactive rock painting—sure to please the kids and the kids-at-heart!
- More of a spectator? Check out live ice sculpture carvings from Johnson Studios!
Experience The Landing’s culinary offerings
While you’re out, pop in and warm up with some comforting food from any of The Landing’s culinary treasures, including: Bistro Nota, Kanela’s, Marquee, Mercado, Nawa, Papi’s Pizza, or Tolon (reservations encouraged)!
Bonus: When you purchase a drink at Dana’s or Night Train’s pop-up bars, you’ll receive complimentary raw oysters courtesy of Dana’s!
Cozy up with the community
The most important part of Weather the Fort is the community. So whether you’re looking for a night out with friends or something to do with the fam, enjoy the magic of getting out of the house to enjoy the company of others.
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Join Weather the Fort’s ninth season on Saturday, February 17 on The Landing, located on the 100 block of West Columbia Street and sections of Calhoun, Pearl, and Harrison Streets. Metered on-street parking along Harrison, Calhoun, and Pearl Streets is free on the weekends.
Check out Weather the Fort’s full schedule of events:
- 3:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m………………Live music from Wallen Road Band
- 3:00 p.m…………………………………..Craft beer tapping from Dana’s and Night Train
- 3:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m………………Interactive rock painting
- 3:30 p.m……………………………………Ice sculpture carving from Johnson Studios
- 4:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m………………Meet and greet with Anna and Kristoff from Frozen
- 4:15 p.m……………………………………Craft beer tapping from Dana’s and Night Train
- 5:30 p.m……………………………………Craft beer tapping from Dana’s and Night Train
- 5:45 p.m. – 7:30 p.m……………….Live music from The Be Colony
- 6:45 p.m……………………………………Craft beer tapping from Dana’s and Night Train
- 7:30 p.m……………………………………Weather the Fort sponsor toast
- 7:40 p.m……………………………………Fire performance from Pyroscope Entertainment
Molly Conner is a Fort Wayne native and freelance writer. Having lived in Downtown Fort Wayne throughout her twenties, she loves watching her stomping grounds grow. With her love of storytelling and community in tow, she’s eager to tell Downtown Fort Wayne’s story piece-by-piece—exploring the people, spaces, and organizations that make it thrive.