The LGBTQ+ Inside Scoop to Fort Wayne, Indiana
Fort Wayne boasts a rainbow of businesses proud of their genders and sexualities, many even making it a core value of their business to promote inclusivity and diversity. The local LGBTQ+ community has a lot of progress to be made but luckily there is a population of queers here ready to put in the work to make this difference.
Check out these queer-run events and queer-owned businesses to get out and support!
Pride Events:
Be sure to check out the Fort Wayne Pride Facebook page to find events throughout the year.
Pride Month is not over after June — especially not in Fort Wayne.
The annual Fort Wayne Pride Fest returns July 25-26 at Headwaters Park!
Festivities kick off Friday at 7 pm, with great music all evening and a dance party from 11 pm to midnight. Saturday is packed with great events, including:
- The Pride March at 2pm starting at Headwaters Park
- A full lineup of live entertainment from local, regional, and national bands and musicians
- Plus food and drink options, a vendor market, workshops, a nonprofit resource fair, and more!
See the full Pride Fest schedule.
Places to Visit:
Fae's Cabinet
Calling witches, crystal lovers, and local art fans: Fae’s Cabinet is an LGBTQ+ owned business where local artists can sell their art–ranging from jewelry to spell jars to 3-D printed skulls. They have an expansive array of crystals, handmade art, metaphysical supplies, and exotic creatures. Fae’s Cabinet is a queer haven for Fort Wayne locals and creators!
Shop Two Sixty
Bagels in the traditional sourdough style — handmade with love and pride! Keep your eyes on their social media for where this Farmers Market staple is next. Their goods range far beyond bagels, including sweet pastries, breads, salads, and bagel schmears. This is our go-to deli hook-up. Plus–they cater! Queer owned, operated, and uplifted!
Dash-In
This downtown breakfast and lunch spot is a staple of the community and fully inclusive of LGBTQ+ patrons. Check out their unique grilled cheeses, or join them on weekends for delectable brunch options.
After Dark Nightclub
This institution of a gay bar has been around town since 1981. While it has moved locations, it's still going strong, open seven days a week with regular events like karaoke, drag shows, and community fundraisers. Located on Harrison Street, just south of downtown.
