'Tis the season for some holiday cheer. Look no further than these magical events in Fort Wayne that can add some sparkle to your holiday getaway. Fort Wayne during the holidays is the perfect place to find a little magic.
Whether you’re looking for a group experience or a place for a little personal contemplation, there are plenty of places to explore – and these are spots you can return to, again and again!
6 Magical Experiences in Fort Wayne
1. Festival of Trees
November 20 - 27
The Festival of Trees is definitely a must-see if beautiful Christmas trees, antique architecture and a touch of 1920s glam is your thing.
Situated in the Embassy Theatre lobby and the neighboring Indiana Hotel Lobby, the Festival of Trees features more than fifty decorated trees in a wonderful blizzard of creativity.
The auditorium of the Embassy is open for visitors who want to watch events on stage; events range from special music on the Grande Page Organ, a regional dance group, or a children’s choir sing-along.
When you file through the trees, the lobby is brilliant with light but the auditorium is thoughtfully dim and hushed.
Purchase Tickets
2. Fantasy of Lights
November 20 – December 31
Do you get a thrill when you see multi-colored lights twinkling, sparkling and glowing? Then the Fantasy of Lights is for you.
Tons of lights are set up to depict candy canes, tall tin soldiers, crèches, rocking horses, cowboys, and any number of other colorful designs, based on the individual sponsor. This 3-mile driving tour through Franke Park features more than 165 larger-than-life light displays.
It’s especially beautiful when there’s a fresh blanket of snow that lets you look out your open car window and appreciate the silence of a wintry night. This is a display that looks beautiful in the rain, snow, or in clear weather.
Be sure to get out of the car and walk through Santa's Christmas Village with food and craft vendors, holiday music, and more! Santa's Christmas Village is open November 24 - December 21.
Admission: $15 per car
3. Fort Wayne Ballet: The Nutcracker
November 29 - December 1, December 6 - 8
Can you mix grace, beauty, and a sparkling sensation all in one event? At the Fort Wayne Ballet’s presentation of The Nutcracker — you certainly can!
In the hushed theatre of the Arts United Center, the dancers make the story of Clara and the Nutcracker come to life. There’s just something about the Dance of the Snowflakes, with its beautiful blue lighting and swirling, costumed dancers that takes you to another world. At the end, when Clara discovers that it has all been a dream, you, too, feel like you’re waking up from a beautiful memory.
NOTE: The performances on November 29 - December 1 will feature live music from the Fort Wayne Philharmonic!
Purchase tickets for The Nutcracker
4. The Botanical Conservatory – Gnome for the Holidays
November 20 – January 5
This year, the Botanical Conservatory’s seasonal exhibit celebrates the festive culture of holiday homecoming with a whimsical twist. Imaginative displays will warm the hearts of visitors and offer themed opportunities to capture treasured family photos. Cozy accents will tie together a heartfelt display featuring a mythical poinsettia tree along with large fresh cut evergreens and playful touches.
And don't forget to explore the outdoor gardens with light displays for the holidays! Open for just a dollar on Thursdays with their $1 Night Light Displays.
Plus, visit during Santa & Reindeer Saturdays for an extra special photo op with the jolly man in red.
5. The Festival of Gingerbread
November 20 – December 22
What scent makes you think more about Christmas than gingerbread? Each holiday season, the History Center is filled with gingerbread creations during the Festival of Gingerbread! From candy-filled pre-K creations to works of fantastic art in glazed candy windows and crafted icing, there is something for every age to enjoy.
The old-fashioned Christmas decorations lend an antique charm to the whole experience, taking you back to a time when Christmas was simpler. Admission: $7 for adults, $5 for seniors and youth, free for ages 2 and under.
6. Night of Lights
November 22
On the night before Thanksgiving, downtown Fort Wayne comes to life with lights! Join friends and family as you trek from one display to another, kicking off the holiday season with the lighting of Fort Wayne's most iconic displays!
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This post was originally published in November 2017. It has been reformatted and updated. Last Updated: November 2023.