Fort Wayne residents gathered at The Deck at Hall’s Gas House for the return of the popular Fall Festival on October 25. This family friendly event celebrated the spooky season with a mix of fun activities and local flair from noon until 8 p.m. along the riverfront.
The festival drew crowds eager for Halloween vibes in the Summit City. Organizers aimed to create a welcoming space for all ages to enjoy autumn traditions and community spirit.
Festival Highlights and Atmosphere
The event buzzed with energy as families arrived in costumes and locals set up booths. Set against the scenic backdrop of downtown Fort Wayne, the gathering highlighted the city’s love for seasonal celebrations. Attendees shared stories of past years, noting how the festival has grown into a must attend tradition.
One key draw was the festive setup with campfires dotting the area. These provided cozy spots for roasting marshmallows and sharing laughs. The mild fall weather added to the charm, making it ideal for outdoor enjoyment.
Weather reports from the day showed temperatures around 65 degrees Fahrenheit, perfect for the eight hour run. This turnout boosted local morale after a busy week of other community events.
Kid Friendly Activities Galore
Children led the excitement with a special passport system. Kids picked up passports at the entrance and visited stations to earn stamps for completing tasks. This gamified approach kept young ones engaged throughout the afternoon.
Popular stations included pumpkin painting where families created colorful designs. Potion making booths let participants mix safe, glowing concoctions that sparked wonder. Photo opportunities with themed backdrops captured memorable moments for social media shares.
Parents praised the variety, saying it helped tire out energetic kids in a positive way. The grand prize draw at the end added suspense, with winners announced just before closing.
Here are some standout kid activities from the day:
- Pumpkin painting sessions with non toxic supplies
- Potion making workshops using household ingredients
- Costume contests divided by age groups for fair play
- Hay bale mazes for safe exploration
- Storytime corners with fall themed tales
Vendor Booths and Local Shopping
Over 30 local vendors filled the space with handmade goods and seasonal treats. Shoppers browsed everything from artisanal crafts to fresh baked pies. This setup supported small businesses and infused the event with hometown pride.
Food options ranged from classic fair fare to healthy snacks. Vendors offered apple cider, caramel apples, and hearty soups to warm up the crowd. The Deck’s signature drinks, like spiced lattes and fall cocktails for adults, flowed steadily.
One vendor shared that sales exceeded expectations, thanks to the high foot traffic. This economic boost aligns with Fort Wayne’s push to strengthen local commerce during peak seasons.
To give a quick overview of vendor categories, here’s a table:
| Category | Examples Offered | Number of Booths |
|---|---|---|
| Crafts and Art | Handmade jewelry, wood carvings | 12 |
| Food and Treats | Baked goods, cider, soups | 10 |
| Seasonal Decor | Wreaths, ornaments, fall signs | 8 |
Live Performances and Entertainment
Live music set the tone from start to finish. Local bands played upbeat tunes on a riverside stage, drawing dancers of all ages. Performances included folk songs and modern covers that fit the autumn mood.
Costume contests proved a hit, with categories for groups and individuals. Winners received prizes like gift cards to local spots, encouraging creativity. The judging panel, made up of community leaders, kept things lighthearted.
Beyond music, fire pits hosted storytelling sessions about local legends. These added a touch of mystery, tying into the Halloween theme without scaring younger guests.
Fort Wayne’s fall calendar is packed this year. Events like the Johnny Appleseed Festival earlier in September drew over 50,000 visitors, setting a high bar. The Deck’s gathering fits into this trend, with city officials noting a 15 percent rise in attendance for seasonal outings compared to last year.
Community Impact and Future Outlook
The festival not only entertained but also fostered connections. Families from across Allen County mingled, sharing tips on other upcoming events. This sense of unity strengthens the Summit City’s reputation as a family oriented destination.
Organizers reported smooth operations despite the crowd size, estimated at several thousand. Safety measures, like clear pathways and first aid stations, ensured everyone had a good time.
Looking ahead, similar events could expand with more eco friendly features, given rising interest in sustainable celebrations. Fort Wayne’s parks department plans to integrate green initiatives in 2026 gatherings.
If you enjoyed reading about this festive return, share your own fall memories in the comments below. Tag friends who love local events and help spread the word about Fort Wayne’s vibrant scene.
