Fort Wayne has a lot to offer during wintertime with a growing downtown scene, kid-friendly attractions, sports events, and other activities. Visitors can participate in some of the local favorites like ice skating at Headwaters Park and attending Komets games, or check out a newer event that highlights downtown Fort Wayne, Indiana. Here are some of the best ways to enjoy wintertime in Fort Wayne.
Special Winter Activities in Fort Wayne, Indiana
Celebrate winter at annual festivals including Winterval and Winter Cozy in January and Weather the Fort in early February.
Each festival offers festive fun outdoors. Winterval, taking place on January 29, features great family-friendly activities including ice skating, ice carvings, scavenger hunts, historic reenactments, and more. The same day, adults 21+ can end their evening with the warm, comfortable, festive fun of Winter Cozy. Weather the Fort is perfect for a weekend away with friends, featuring fire dancers, performances, drinks, and fun! Learn more about our winter festivals.
If you can't get away, there are other special events later in February and early March for everyone to enjoy. From Broadway shows to concerts, and other fun activities, there are so many ways to make your winter getaway memorable. Find more winter getaway ideas!
Everyday Winter Activities in Fort Wayne, Indiana
Headwaters Ice Rink
While checking out downtown Fort Wayne, skating at Headwaters Ice Rink is a must. This is the perfect way to enjoy the winter weather on a weekday afternoon or on the weekend. This can be a great activity for friends, families, or couples. Hot chocolate and snacks are available to warm up during any skating breaks.
SportONE/Parkview Icehouse
The SportONE/Parkview Icehouse offers public ice skating as well as opportunities for hockey and other activities. Public ice skating takes place throughout the week. You can also enjoy Stick & Puck hockey opportunities for kids and adults. Times may vary depending on other events, so make sure to look at their schedule when planning your trip.
If you have some in your group who prefer not to skate? Head up to the second floor and enjoy the warmth! Upstairs, you'll find the Overtime Bar & Grill with a mouthwatering menu. As you dine, grab a seat at the tables that overlook all three sheets of ice below.
Komets Hockey
For the sports lover in your group, a Komets hockey game can be a fun evening. Whether you’re with friends or family, the Komets offer special promotions and have fun theme nights to get everyone excited about the game. Some of their promotions include Kids Seat Free, Post-Game Skates, Family 4-Pack Nights, Deuces Wild Wednesdays, and Report Card Nights.
Indoor Fun for Kids - Of All Ages
Bowling? Lazer Tag? Trampolines? Ax throwing? We've got it all - and so much more - at our Indoor Recreation spots!
Savor Fort Wayne
Mark your calendars for January 12-23 - Fort Wayne's Restaurant Week. Enjoy special priced three-course menus from dozens of area restaurants during Savor Fort Wayne!
"Under the Big Top" at the Botanical Conservatory
Come one, come all to the greatest Circus Garden in town! Imagine yourself as part of the spectacle and attempt great feats of derring-do including acrobatics and tightrope walking. Join the Side Show when posing as a Strong Man or Bearded Lady. Marvel at exotic topiary animals and astonishing plant oddities. This winter, everyone is invited to go to the circus and “clown around” under the Conservatory’s Botanical Big Top.
Special Exploration Passes!
Explore Fort Wayne with our digital passes - offering a Public Art Trail, Outdoor Adventures, Savings, and more! Access your free digital pass today!
*This post was originally published in 2018 and has been updated.