There are a ton of things to do in our city for the whole family.
Check out what’s going on in May
(Check out ongoing, recurring, and weekly events at the bottom of the page)
If you have a fun, family-friendly event that you would like to be added – please send the event information, and a link if you have one, to [email protected].
May Events:
Miró in New York, 1947: Miró, Hayter and Atelier 17
Through June 25, 2023 (Closed Mondays)
Fort Wayne Museum of Art
Spanish surrealist painter Joan Miró made his first trip to the U.S. in 1947 after receiving a commission for a mural in the Gourmet Room at the very modern Terrace Plaza Hotel in Cincinnati. During his nine-month stay working in New York, he frequented Stanley William Hayter’s legendary printmaking workshop, known as Atelier 17, and created a small group of experimental intaglio prints. This exhibition focuses on a special moment in time: the extraordinary confluence of Miró, Hayter’s Atelier 17, and the mix of artists who congregated there.
Hurshtown Reservoir is Open for the Season
Hours: 7:30 a.m.-8:00 p.m.
Hurshtown Reservoir
Hurshtown Reservoir may be the best fishing spot in Allen County. It also features a 2.75 mile walking path, areas for picnics, an outdoor volleyball space and kayak and rowboat rentals. Admission is only $5 per car or $1 per person to walk or bicycle in. Season passes are also
Trails Celebration Hosted by Fort Wayne Trails
May 2, 2023
Salomon Farm Old Barn
Kicking off the 2023 trails season on Tuesday, May 2nd at 6:30 pm at the Salomon Farm Park Barn! Enjoy music, heavy appetizers from Trubble Brewing, a cash bar, and an update from the City of Fort Wayne and Fort Wayne Trails on upcoming projects and trail happenings!
Tread the Trails/Trek the Trails
Dates vary between May 2, 2023 – September 26, 2023
Fort Wayne Trails
Join the City of Fort Wayne, the City of New Haven, and Fort Wayne Trails on these family-friendly bike rides. Rides begin at 6:00 pm every Tuesday throughout the summer. Participants are asked to wear helmets and bring water along for the ride. Most rides are 8-9 miles long. The average speed is 10-12 mph. This is a “no one left behind ride” and all skill levels are welcome! These rides are an awesome way to explore sections of trail you haven’t seen before or just to get out and see some old favorites! We hope that you will join us for a ride.
Art Deco Glass from the David Huchthausen Collection
Through August 6, 2023 (Closed Mondays)
Fort Wayne Museum of Art
The Art Deco period (c. 1910-1940), with its focus on simplified forms and captivating repeating surface treatments, was revolutionary. Inspired by other burgeoning modern art movements of the time including Cubism and Fauvism, the philosophy behind this style aimed to introduce high quality design to a broader market. The lasting influence of this period can still be seen in today’s Studio Glass movement in style and technique.
Historic Swinney Homestead Annual Open House and Settlers Inc. Plant Sale
May 5, 2023
Swinney Homestead
The Historic Swinney Homestead Open House and Settlers’ Plant Sale will happen on Friday, May 5, from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. at the Historic Swinney Homestead at 1424 W. Jefferson Blvd., Fort Wayne, IN. The Main floor is open for walk through with a display of Settlers, Inc. 2023-2024 hand arts programs and Settlers, Inc. membership information. Herbs will be in the basement and perennial diggings are on the back lawn.
Varying dates May 4 – 14, 2023
Arts United Center
Stephen Sondheim and James Lapine take everyone’s favorite storybook characters and bring them together in a timeless, yet uniquely relevant piece of musical theatre. When a Baker and his Wife learn they’ve been cursed with childlessness by the Witch next door, they embark on a quest into the woods for the special objects required to break the spell. Along their journey they resort to swindling, deceiving, and stealing from Cinderella, Little Red Riding Hood, Rapunzel, and Jack! There are a few requisite handsome princes and evil stepsisters thrown in the mix as well. Everyone’s wish is granted, but the consequences of their actions return to haunt them later with disastrous results. The sophistication of Sondheim paired with the timeless tales of The Brothers Grimm combine in this rare modern classic.
Recurring monthly on the 1st Saturday until November 4, 2023
Chief Richardville House
The History Center presents Miami Indian Heritage Days, beginning Saturday, May 6 at the Chief Richardville House, 5705 Bluffton Road, Fort Wayne. Learn about the lasting heritage of the Miami and other regional Native American groups. Local artists, performers and presenters will be featured the first Saturday of the month, May to November, from 1-4 pm. Greta Sirios will offer a demonstration of Fiber Arts: Cording and Twining on May 6.
May 6, 2023
LC Nature Park
Celebrate Spring at LC Nature Park – so much to do and see and enjoy! Trillium Fest is free and for all ages. No registration is required.
Be Your Own Artist: Hoop it Up
Park Foundation Pavilion
May 7
For hula-hoops, one size does not fit all, so here’s a chance to make your own. All materials will be provided for this class; tubing, wrapping colors and sound effects—to create your own custom hula hoop. Linda Duesler (aka Linda Hooper) is a local realtor who loves to hoop it up in the park. She taught her self how to make hoops that are larger and heavier than those sold in stores for kids. This class is designed for ages 13 and above. Please call 260-427-6000 to register.
May 9, 2023
Parkview Field
Come and cheer on the Caps at Parkview Field which ranked as a top ‘Ballpark Experience.’ Select games feature specials, promotions, and fireworks!
May 10, 2023
Parkview Field
Come and cheer on the Caps at Parkview Field which ranked as a top ‘Ballpark Experience.’ Select games feature specials, promotions, and fireworks!
Dates vary between May 10, 2023 – May 31, 2023
Sweetwater
Explore the magical world of music together with your little one. Join us for Tiny Musicians classes at Sweetwater! Enjoy nursery rhymes and songs, rhythm and movement exercises, simple and fun instruments, and plenty of ways to experience the joy of play! Each pair of participants — the tiny musician and their parent/guardian — will be guided through 45 minutes of educational play. Our curriculum incorporates various languages, rhythms, instruments, and cultures to give exposure to world music while developing fine and gross motor skills in a fun, inviting environment.
May 11, 2023
Embassy Theatre
Holding onto hope when times are tough can take an awful lot of determination, and sometimes, an awful lot of determination comes in a surprisingly small package. Little Orphan Annie has reminded generations of theatergoers that sunshine is always right around the corner, and now the best-loved musical of all time is set to return in a new production – just as you remember it and just when we need it most.
May 11, 2023
Parkview Field
Come and cheer on the Caps at Parkview Field which ranked as a top ‘Ballpark Experience.’ Select games feature specials, promotions, and fireworks!
May 11, 2023
Parkview Field
Come and cheer on the Caps at Parkview Field which ranked as a top ‘Ballpark Experience.’ Select games feature specials, promotions, and fireworks!
The Bell Mansion
May 11 – 25, 2023
Come tour this once funeral home of over 90 years, experience what lies within these 130 year old limestone walls. Hear all the paranormal stories, see all the gurneys, body boxes, and other items left behind since 1893! Not only get all the Ghost stories but tour every square inch of this gorgeous Mansion! Can you handle the tour in the dark?!?
May 12, 2023
Parkview Field
Come and cheer on the Caps at Parkview Field which ranked as a top ‘Ballpark Experience.’ Select games feature specials, promotions, and fireworks!
May 12, 2023
Headwaters Park
The first ever Rocking on the River event from 6:00PM – 11:59PM featuring Jesse Howard and NuBreed performing their #1 hit single “Welcome To My House” with Who TF Is Justin Time?, TMBRWOLF TONE, Kingery, Rich Regal, Hitman, Ya Boi Dirty, Shawn Paris, Frank Zank and Rick Moore!
Dates vary between May 12, 2023 – May 26, 2023
Promenade Park
Take control of your sensory needs through crafts, discussions with sensory professionals and other resources. This spring we are offering one DIY craft that involves all 5 senses on the 2nd Friday of each month. The March project is a Sensory Pillow, which is customizable to anyone’s sensory, motor, or memory needs. April’s project is Floam, which has a unique and calming texture and is easy to make. In May, use your artistic abilities or just have fun while painting with Bubble Wrap. Sessions begin promptly at 6:10 p.m. The generosity of the AWS Foundation allows this program to be offered free to the public. Registration is required. Deadlines are 2 days prior to each workshop.
May 13th, June 10th, July 8th, August 12th, September 9th, October 14th
1010 Carroll Road, Fort Wayne, IN 46845 (the parking lots of Pathway Community Church)
9:00 am – 2:00 pm
Enjoy the open-air market located in Northwest Fort Wayne where you can shop local and support small business in a family friendly setting. Shop an array of more than 90 vendors. You will find food trucks with tasty treats and musicians to entertain you all day long.
Believe In A Dream (BIAD) String Jams Spring Concert and Scavenger Hunt
May 13, 2023
Downtown Fort Wayne
The String Jams Spring Concert is an annual performance held in May that features young participants from the BIAD arts program, String Jams. String Jammers will perform a variety of alternative-strings music on their string instruments, under the direction of BIAD Arts Program Director, Colleen Phillips. The concert will take place at 4 pm at the Promenade Pavilion.
Fort Wayne FC vs Kings Hammer FC
Bishop John D’Arcy Stadium-University of St. Francis
May 13, 2023
Professional soccer is back in less than forty days for Fort Wayne FC as they prepare to debut at their new home field – Bishop John D’Arcy Stadium at the University of Saint Francis. Fort Wayne FC’s home schedule currently includes six league matches with another four exhibition matches including an international match on the horizon. A 12-game regular USL2 season is scheduled to be played from May 1st to mid-July. Division and Conference playoffs are scheduled for late July with the league championship in August.
Parkview Field
May 13, 2023
Come and cheer on the Caps at Parkview Field which ranked as a top ‘Ballpark Experience.’ Select games feature specials, promotions, and fireworks!
Holiday Inn – Purdue Fort Wayne
May 13, 2023
Pamper your mom with a wonderful meal hassle free and delicious! Our buffet will include: hot breakfast items, salad bar, fresh fruit, desserts, ham, cordon blue alfredo, green beans, smashed yellow yukon potatoes, grilled chicken, gravy…and lots of love for Mom!
Downtown Fort Wayne
May 13 – 14, 2023
Create new memories during Mother’s Day Weekend Downtown by supporting locally owned boutiques and restaurants, May 13 – May 14, presented by Downtown Fort Wayne. Enjoy shopping among 48 retailers within the 99-block District and surrounding Broadway, Main Street, and Wells Street Corridors, or dine at one of over 50 food and beverage establishments throughout Downtown Fort Wayne.
Foellinger-Freimann Botanical Conservatory
May 13 – 14, 2023
Plan a special outing to the Botanical Conservatory where Moms get in FREE Mother’s Day weekend. Drop by Conjure Coffee, browse the Conservatory Shop, visit live butterflies and admire all the lovely garden displays together. The first 800 mothers to visit receive a free plant!
McMillen Park Community Center
May 12-14
Just in time for spring planting, the Botanical Conservatory offers over 700 varieties of plants at the annual Mother’s Day Plant Sale. Shop masses of locally grown herbs, vegetable starts, flowering perennials and native plants joining a host of annuals, mixed containers, hanging baskets, houseplants, bonsai and a variety of seeds. Essentials like potting soil and compost worms are also available. A team of knowledgeable plant advisors are even ready to answer questions and offer suggestions! This annual fundraiser supports Fort Wayne’s very own Botanical Conservatory.
Promenade Park
May 14, 10:30-11:30 a.m.
Yoga on the Riverfront is a free event that continues this spring on the 2nd Sunday of the month in the Park Foundation Pavilion. This relaxing, 1-hour flow is for all skill levels and led by instructor Chelsea Vona, owner of Discover Yoga. Yoga mats can be provided if you do not have your own!
Sunday Heritage Concert Series: Joy Bell
Promenade Park
May 14, 2:00-3:00 p.m.
The musician Joy Bell will feature a combination of pop, rock, blues and Flamenco music. Concerts are free and open to all ages. Seating will be on a first come first served basis.
Muster on the St. Mary’s – A Timeline Event
The Old Fort
May 13 – 14, 2023
What was it like when the French Settlers inhabited this area? What types of uniforms have different soldiers worn throughout history? How have weapons changed from the War of 1812 to World War II? Historical reenactors representing times from the early Romans through World War II will converge on the Old Fort this weekend. Observe demonstrations on period cooking, gardening, military life, and much more. Every year is unique so be sure to come out! Experience first-hand the life and activities of the people from across the ages.
Parkview Field
May 14, 2023
Come and cheer on the Caps at Parkview Field which ranked as a top ‘Ballpark Experience.’ Select games feature specials, promotions, and fireworks!
Fort Wayne Ballet Presents: Dancer’s Legacy: An Evening of Stierle
Arts United Center
May 19 – 20, 2023
Having only begun in his calling as a choreographer before his death at the age of 23, Edward Steirle should have enjoyed a career as a bright star of the Joffery Ballet. His work stands as a tribute to grace and beauty through personal tragedy and fate. The Fort Wayne Ballet brings his legacy to the stage and celebrates a gifted life cut short.
Downtown Fort Wayne
May 20, 2023
Experience local, regional, and national acts from musicians, fire dancers, living statues, magicians, jugglers, and more during BuskerFest, on Saturday, May 20, from 3:00-9:00 p.m., in Downtown Fort Wayne. Various street performers will entertain the public at Busker Central Pitch at the intersection of Wayne Street and Calhoun Street. Additionally, a mix of six unique bands will bring live tunes to the Loud & Local Music Pitch located at Berry Street and Calhoun Street.
Auburn Cord Duesenberg Automobile Museum
Third Saturday of each month through September 16, 2023
Join hundreds of regional car owners and fans for this family-friendly event at the Auburn Cord Duesenberg Automobile Museum on Saturday, May 21 from 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM. Bring your favorite car and enjoy the best local coffee and donuts in the region. Cars and Coffee is free and open to all vehicles including: classic, exotic, muscle, and favorite car.
Electric Works
Saturdays through September 23, 2023
Providing increased access to healthy, locally sourced food has been a core component of the Electric Works vision since the beginning. Leigh and her vendors from throughout the region have worked hard to build a world-class market and provide the community an exceptional market experience — we’re honored to partner with them to improve accessibility and equity when it comes to healthy food options for all of Fort Wayne and beyond.
Cherry Blossom Festival of Fort Wayne
Walb Student Union-Purdue Fort Wayne
May 21, 2023
For 6 hours, Noon to 6 pm, the Walb Student Union and surrounding area at Purdue Fort Wayne (PFW) will be alive with Japanese arts, crafts and culture, from water games and crafts for kids to Karaoke for older folks. Activities will take place throughout Walb Student Union, the Skybridge. the Science Mall, Friends Pavilion, and Alumni Plaza.
Promenade Park
Sunday, May 21
Your pup is the artist and creating their masterpiece is easy! One 8×10” canvas, paint and a dog-safe spreadable treat is included. Dogs will not be in contact with the paint but will be encouraged to eat the spreadable treat as part of the artistic process. Afterwards, stop by the photo booth and pose with your fur-pal and their work of art. Supplies are limited, so early registration is recommended. Each dog must be registered and accompanied by at least one dog handler. Please plan to keep dogs on leash and pick up after them as needed. Register online at www.FortWayneParks.org or call 260-427-6000.
Foellinger-Freimann Botanical Conservatory
May 20
Stroll through a miniature forest made up of familiar trees that are the focus of conversation. Members of the Fort Wayne Bonsai Club are ready to share about this fascinating art form! Cultivate your interest when choosing from a selection of bonsai specimen and pots that are available for cash-only purchase. Show entry included with general admission.
Marian, or The True Tale of Robin Hood
Foellinger Theatre
May 20
A gender-bending, patriarchy-smashing, hilarious new take on the classic tale. Robin Hood is (and has always been) Maid Marian in disguise and leads a motley group of Merry Men (few of whom are actually men) against the greedy Prince John.
Foellinger-Freimann Botanical Conservatory
May 16-20
All are invited to explore diverse plant collections while touring indoor and outdoor destinations at the Botanical Conservatory. As part of Fort Wayne’s downtown revitalization efforts since 1983, our mission is to “provide a unique botanical venue for quality public education and enjoyment.” Visit during National Public Gardens Week to learn, celebrate and discover all there is to see and do at your local public garden! Also take advantage of a special giveaway while supplies last. Regular admission fees apply.
Headwaters Park Pavilions
May 21, 2023
Eco Fest is a celebration of the environment and the people who care about it, with thousands of attendees and over 70 local businesses, non-profits, activity providers, and food and beverage vendors coming together in one place. The event is designed to welcome everyone, regardless of their familiarity with environmentally friendly actions.
Parkview Field
May 23, 2023
Come and cheer on the Caps at Parkview Field which ranked as a top ‘Ballpark Experience.’ Select games feature specials, promotions, and fireworks!
Parkview Field
May 24, 2023
Come and cheer on the Caps at Parkview Field which ranked as a top ‘Ballpark Experience.’ Select games feature specials, promotions, and fireworks!
Parkview Field
May 25, 2023
Come and cheer on the Caps at Parkview Field which ranked as a top ‘Ballpark Experience.’ Select games feature specials, promotions, and fireworks!
Parkview Field
May 26, 2023
Come and cheer on the Caps at Parkview Field which ranked as a top ‘Ballpark Experience.’ Select games feature specials, promotions, and fireworks!
Parkview Field
May 27, 2023
Come and cheer on the Caps at Parkview Field which ranked as a top ‘Ballpark Experience.’ Select games feature specials, promotions, and fireworks!
Parkview Field
May 28, 2023
Come and cheer on the Caps at Parkview Field which ranked as a top ‘Ballpark Experience.’ Select games feature specials, promotions, and fireworks!
Memorial Day Parade and Ceremony
Allen County War Memorial Coliseum
May 29, 2023
The public is invited to support the Allen County Council of Veterans during the annual Memorial Day Parade on Parnell Avenue and the Ceremony at Veteran’s Plaza of the Allen County War Memorial Coliseum.
Parkview Field
May 30, 2023
Come and cheer on the Caps at Parkview Field which ranked as a top ‘Ballpark Experience.’ Select games feature specials, promotions, and fireworks!
Parkview Field
May 31, 2023
Come and cheer on the Caps at Parkview Field which ranked as a top ‘Ballpark Experience.’ Select games feature specials, promotions, and fireworks!
Garden Party: Outdoor Sculptures by Dorothy Gillespie
Fort Wayne Museum of Art
Through June 4, 2023 (closed Mondays)
The Fort Wayne Museum of Art is pleased to present its reinvigorated sculpture court with the opening of Garden Party: Outdoor Sculptures by Dorothy Gillespie. Dorothy Gillespie was a pioneer for women in the arts. In her impressive career of over 70 years, she was an activist, lecturer, and mentor to creative women throughout the world. Twenty years before her famous exhibitions at Walt Disney World and Rockefeller Center, Gillespie had a city-wide exhibition in Fort Wayne in 1979, which helped launch her career. This exhibition honors that instrumental exhibition, showcasing a dazzling array of outdoor sculptures.
Second Thursdays at the Fort Wayne Museum of Art
Fort Wayne Museum of Art
Dates vary through December 14, 2023
Second Thursdays at FWMoA are a chance to explore the museum in a social atmosphere through conversation and discovery, featuring art and gallery activities led by museum curators and artists. Join us every month year-round for free admission, cash bar, and light appetizers.
William S. Dutterer, Below The Surface: A Deep “See”
Fort Wayne Museum of Art
Through July 2, 2023 (closed Mondays)
William Sherman Dutterer (1943-2007) was an expert at wordplay, a prolific visual punster, and an audacious conversationalist with a wickedly clever wit. He possessed an encyclopedic knowledge of a vast array of subjects and a photographic memory. He was a beloved professor, an insightful mentor, generous friend, devoted husband, and painter’s painter. Dutterer was, as Jack Rasmussen, Director and Curator of the American University Museum at the Katzen Arts Center, wrote in 2007, “the real deal”.
Natural Appeal: Differing Approaches to the Landscape
Fort Wayne Museum of Art
Through September 17, 2023 (closed Mondays)
The beauty, majesty, and emotional power of the landscape has captured the attention of artists for generations. From the early Romantics of the 18th century to contemporary abstract painters, landscape art is as diverse as the landscape itself. From these different approaches, we not only glean how artistic styles have changed over time, but also how artists can relay different feelings and statements about the natural world to their audience. In this exhibition, we present an assortment of landscapes from our permanent collection, spanning over 200 years and 15 different mediums. While grouped in the art historical categories of Realism, Romanticism, Impressionism, Abstraction, and Surrealism, these identifications serve as aesthetic guides rather than periodic markers.
Color in Motion: Butterfly Exhibit
Foellinger-Freimann Botanical Conservatory
Through June 25, 2023 (closed Mondays)
Did you know the Botanical Conservatory recruits and relies on volunteers to assist during its live butterfly exhibit every spring? Having completed the required training, each volunteer is equipped to interact with visitors, prevent butterfly escapes and cover routine shifts in the greenhouse display tent.
Ongoing events:
Fort Wayne Museum of Art
Through November 5, 2023 (closed Mondays)
Over the past decade, the Fort Wayne Museum of Art has built one of the fastest growing collections of Studio Glass in the Midwest. This new permanent glass wing will showcase a selection of their rapidly expanding collection of almost 400 glass sculptures.
LC Nature Park
Select dates through May 18, 2023
A monthly program for our littlest Nature Rangers (Ages 3-5). Your kids will enjoy a seasonal, nature-themed story, a delicious snack, and a fun craft!
The Olde East End Building
Saturdays through April 29, 2023
Located in Fort Wayne, our winter market will be held at The Olde East End Building, also known as the old candy factory, located at 1501 E Berry St. The Winter YLNI Farmers Market provides a comfortable indoor shopping experience during the chilly months of the year and connects the community with local vendors. Customers can find select produce, baked goods, crafts, jewelry, honey, and so much more!
Fort Wayne Museum of Art
First Thursday of each month
During Curator’s Tours, President & CEO and Chief Curator Charles Shepard or other curators take you on a new gallery tour each month. From their specialized and personal points of view, curators offer a unique perspective for all exhibitions at the Museum. Curator’s Tours are on the first Thursday of every month from 12:15 – 1pm. They are free with gallery admission.
The Bell Mansion 420 W Wayne St 46802
Saturdays through June 2023
Come Check out this gorgeous building and also hear about Ghost stories experienced at the Bell Mansion. Either things our team has experienced or other paranormal teams during their private investigations!
Midweek Paranormal Investigation
The Bell Mansion
Each Wednesday
Come not only tour the gorgeous Bell Mansion and learn all things paranormal, use our paranormal equipment or bring your own, to capture your own paranormal activity from 7pm to 11pm.
Monday Blues Jam Sessions with G Money & Special Guests
The Club Room at The Clyde
Weekly
Every Monday, 7-10 PM – $15 All You Can Eat BBQ Specials.
The Club Room at the Clyde
Weekly
Every Tuesday, enjoy the best in soft rock and classic hits with a variety of rotating artists.
Wednesday Jazz Sessions at Club Room at the Clyde
The Club Room at the Clyde
Weekly
Each Wednesday with a fantastic performance by featured local, regional, and national jazz artists!
Nashville Thursdays at Club Room at The Clyde
Club Room at the Clyde
Weekly
The best in local and regional artists playing classic country, bluegrass, americana and more! In addition to the regular menu and seasonal features, enjoy Nashville Hot Chicken, Macho Cowboy Nachos and fantastic drink specials!
Friday Night Vibes at Club Room at the Clyde
The Club Room at the Clyde
Weekly
Friday Night Vibes Presented by WBOI’s Meet The Music as WBOI’s Julia Meek hosts the best of local and regional music at The Club Room at The Clyde! Don’t forget to take advantage of our $28 Prime Rib Special (12 oz.) that’s served with your choice of side and baked potato.
I Love Saturdays at Club Room at The Clyde
Club Room at the Clyde
Weekly
Enjoy the best in Pop, Soul R&B and Funk every Saturday! Don’t forget to take advantage of the $28 Prime Rib Special (12 oz.) that’s served with your choice of side and baked potato.
