Spring is upon us! And while the April snow gave us a little tease, there’s lots to get out and do around Fort Wayne these next weeks. This month’s blog is packed full of fun ideas. Get out and shop, tour art galleries, take in live music, celebrate Mom, and much more. As the sun peeks back out, find your favorite pair of sunglasses, head outside, and have some fun.
Mother’s Day
First things first. It’s almost time to celebrate Mom! Mother’s Day this year is Sunday, May 9th. And Fort Wayne doesn’t disappoint. Head out for brunch and shopping on May 7th and 8th at Mother’s Day Downtown. Many retail shops and restaurants will offer specials just right for the occasion. On Sunday, May 9th, stop by Promenade Park for a photo opportunity in front of a floral installation on the swings near the Park Foundation Pavilion.
In addition, Moms get into the Botanical Conservatory free over Mother’s Day Weekend. They can also receive a special plant while supplies last. The live butterfly exhibit, garden displays, gift shop, and Conjure Coffee make the Conservatory a place you’ll want to stop.
Also, don’t miss the annual Mother’s Day Plant Sale running from April 29-May 4. Offered online this year, the sale features locally grown plants for your garden, flowerbeds, hanging baskets, and more. All sales are sure to delight and benefit the Botanical Conservatory.
Finally, in the spirit of all things floral, check out the Fort Wayne in Bloom spring window decorating contest. Follow the link to find a participant map, vote, and enter to win a $50 gift card to a downtown restaurant of your choice. Voting stays open from April 16-May 3. Enjoy the beauty and fun of Mother’s Day in Fort Wayne this May!
Shopping
Shopping just keeps getting better in and around Fort Wayne. With malls, go-to stores, and boutiques, you can find just about anything you’re looking for—and some things you’re just glad to find. Fort Wayne boasts some pretty fabulous spots. Take a look at this list of local boutiques and get busy.
It’s also fun to head out to area Farmers’ Markets and early garage sales. Check listings to see when neighborhood associations start their sales. The YLNI Farmer’s Market on historic Barr St. opens May 1st and features local produce, artwork, jewelry, crafts, food trucks, and more. Check out this list for more fantastic markets nearby!
Music
If you’re ready for live music again, head over to The Club Room at the Clyde. They offer an array of musical styles and acts each week. Each night offers something special from the blues, to jazz, pop, country, and more. Stop by for a bite and hear from local musicians as well as national touring artists. And don’t miss Friday Night Vibes every Friday evening with WBOI’s Julia Meek!
Art
Art is everywhere around Fort Wayne. From public art to pop-up galleries to studio tours, you can find some great spots to slow down and take it all in. Head downtown with this map and go on an art hunt. Find beautiful murals, interesting architecture, interactive artwork, and functional sculptures around town. And it’s all totally free!
Then head over to Jefferson Pointe for the Fort Wayne Artists Guild Pop-Up Gallery. The pop-up runs from April 11-May 16 and features over 300 works of art by 56 artists. The gallery also offers live demonstrations on Saturdays. Find it across from Marshall’s.
Have you ever wanted to visit artists in their studios? Now’s your chance with the 11th Annual Rural Artist Studio Tour. Located in Leo and Spencerville, this free tour runs May 1st from 10:00-6:00. Check out local artists and their work, including pottery, woodworking, candles, found-object art, and more.
And of course there’s Fort Wayne’s favorite Fiber Arts Festival at Salomon Farm Park May 14-15. Follow the festival on Facebook or here for the latest details and public health plans.
New to Fort Wayne!
One of the newest things to Fort Wayne is the “Popnic.” Popnics are customizable pop-up picnics hosted in one of Fort Wayne’s scenic parks and include everything you need for a great time with family and friends. Pick your own food add-ons, or carry in your favorite takeout. Let Fort Wayne Popnic take care of the whole experience, and enjoy.
Also be sure to check out the exciting new places and features in and around Fort Wayne. From the new boutique hotel The Bradley to our men’s soccer team Fort Wayne F.C., there’s lots to see. Be sure to snag the savings passes before you go!
Favorites
Last, but not least, are the Fort Wayne favorites we look forward to every year. Do you love America’s Pastime and a good hotdog? The TinCaps begin their season in May. Check out their website for the schedule and featured events.
Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation continues to offer a great variety of seniors’ activities. Take a look at the Spring Fun Times Brochure for special events as well as weekly classes and gatherings. There’s lots to do, like the free Greet & Eat on Tuesday, May 25th at the Community Center. Enjoy a continental breakfast, meet friends, and win prizes. Plan to stay on for fitness classes like ABC Exercise and Cardio Flex.
Head back over to the Community Center for Book Sales, daily Fun & Games (like Bingo, cornhole, quilting, fitness equipment use, billiards, and Wii Bowling, to name a few), art and culinary classes, and more. There’s so much to enjoy around town this spring. Pick your favorites and have a blast!
The Cedars Retirement Community
The Cedars Retirement Community is a beautiful lakeside retirement residence located just outside of Fort Wayne, Indiana. The Cedars believes in providing the highest quality of life and opportunity for seniors at almost all levels of mobility and health. We are operating with great care during this pandemic and are following all guidelines issued by the CDC and ISDH. Please contact us with any questions you may have.