Open Streets Fort Wayne to return downtown this weekend

FORT WAYNE, Ind. (Fort Wayne’s NBC) - Open Streets Fort Wayne, the free summer festival that turns public streets into performance venues and gathering spots, is scheduled for Sunday, August 7.

For the fifth year, the family-friendly event is returning to downtown Fort Wayne, transforming a 1.5-mile corridor into a safe space to bike and walk freely. Open Streets Fort Wayne originated in 2017 and has become a summer tradition in Fort Wayne.

The City of Fort Wayne says the event will be held on Sunday, Aug. 7, from noon to 4 p.m. The downtown event will have over 100 activities including rock climbing, dance classes and performances, a BMX-Style pump track, mini-golf, live animal meet-and-greets, soccer, pickleball, Touch-A-Truck, bubble play, live music, Yoga at Promenade Park, and more.

BMX rider catching some air at Fort Wayne Open Streets.(WPTA)

The Bike Decorating Contest and Bike Parade is returning and this year’s theme is “Electrify Fort Wayne”. Registration for the Bike Parade opens at 11:00 a.m. at Promenade Park. All ages are welcome to participate and registration is free. The parade will start at 12:00 p.m. at Promenade Park. Awards will be presented for multiple categories and age groups.

Officials say this year’s event directly connects the neighborhoods of West Central, East Central, LaRez, Hoagland Masterson, Historic Williams Woodland, Fairfield and Williams Park with the Central Business District on Calhoun Street. They say the route is almost 25 blocks stretching from Promenade Park to Pontiac Street.

“Open Streets continues to be a highlight for so many residents and visitors. I’m very proud of the unique and innovative features that our community will be able to enjoy this year,” Mayor Tom Henry said. “Fort Wayne’s growth and success will be on display as the public will get to see our revitalized downtown, great neighborhoods, and friendly and caring people committed to making a lasting and meaningful difference.”