Fort Wayne residents and visitors are flocking to the Allen County War Memorial Coliseum this weekend for the Midwest Recreation Expo, a major event showcasing outdoor adventure gear and vehicles. The expo, which started on January 10 and runs through January 12, 2026, partners with the Midwest Motorcycle and Powersports Expo to offer a combined show full of RVs, boats, ATVs, motorcycles, and more.
Event Highlights and Attractions
This year’s expo brings together everything with a motor for outdoor fun. Organizers describe it as the first big chance in 2026 to check out new models and trends in recreation vehicles.
Visitors can explore a wide range of exhibits from top brands. Expect to see the latest in electric bikes, high performance ATVs, and luxury RVs designed for family camping trips. One standout feature is the interactive demos where people test ride powersports equipment in a safe area.
The event also includes expert talks on topics like trail safety and eco friendly boating. Families enjoy kid friendly zones with games and educational booths about outdoor conservation.
A popular draw is the vendor marketplace, offering deals on gear like helmets, tents, and fishing equipment. Attendees report finding great discounts on items that usually cost more at retail stores.
Schedule and Admission Details
The expo operates on a straightforward schedule to fit busy weekends. Doors open at different times each day to give everyone a chance to attend.
Here is the full lineup:
| Day | Date | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Friday | January 10 | 12 p.m. to 8 p.m. |
| Saturday | January 11 | 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. |
| Sunday | January 12 | 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. |
Admission costs $15 for adults, while kids under 16 get in free. Your ticket grants access to both the recreation expo and the powersports show, making it a smart value for the whole family.
Parking is available on site, and organizers recommend arriving early on Saturday to beat the crowds. Public transit options from downtown Fort Wayne make it easy to reach the coliseum without driving.
Partnership with Powersports Expo
This combined event marks a fresh approach for 2026, merging two popular expos under one roof. The partnership aims to create a bigger draw by blending lake life, camping, and motor culture.
Exhibitors from across the Midwest showcase innovations like hybrid engines that cut fuel use while boosting power. Riders can learn about new safety tech, such as advanced helmets with built in communication systems.
The setup encourages cross over between sections, so boat fans might discover ATVs for trail adventures. This mix has led to higher attendance than past separate events, based on early reports from organizers.
Feedback from day one highlights the smooth flow between areas, with clear signs and helpful staff guiding visitors.
Local businesses benefit too, as the expo drives traffic to nearby shops and restaurants in Fort Wayne.
Community Impact and Future Plans
Events like this boost Fort Wayne’s economy by attracting out of town guests who stay in hotels and eat at local spots. City officials estimate thousands of visitors over the weekend, adding to the area’s reputation as a hub for outdoor enthusiasts.
The expo ties into broader trends, such as growing interest in sustainable recreation amid rising fuel costs. Recent data from industry reports shows a 15 percent uptick in RV sales nationwide last year, driven by families seeking affordable vacations.
Looking ahead, organizers plan to expand next year’s event with more live entertainment and celebrity appearances from the powersports world. This builds on similar successful shows in nearby cities, like the recent outdoor expo in Indianapolis that drew record crowds.
Community groups praise the event for promoting active lifestyles, especially after a winter focused on indoor activities.
Related Local Happenings
Fort Wayne stays busy with other events this month, complementing the expo’s vibe. The Savor Fort Wayne food festival starts soon, offering deals at over 100 restaurants for those needing a break from the exhibits.
Meanwhile, the Fort Wayne Farm Show kicks off January 13 at the same coliseum, focusing on agriculture and hiring opportunities. This back to back scheduling keeps the venue buzzing.
Outdoor lovers can also check nearby trails for winter hiking, tying into the expo’s emphasis on adventure gear.
These connections show how Fort Wayne positions itself as a year round destination for recreation and community gatherings.
If you attended the Midwest Recreation Expo or have thoughts on outdoor trends, share your experiences in the comments below. Spread the word by sharing this article with friends who love adventure sports.
