Brothers Jake and Jes Farris are putting a modern twist on one of Fort Wayne’s cherished traditions. Their new festival, Big Fort Fest, aims to bring excitement back to the city this summer, even as the Three Rivers Festival takes a break.
A New Tradition Takes Root
Fort Wayne, Indiana, is about to get a fresh and exciting addition to its summer events calendar. Big Fort Fest, a three-day festival running from July 10 to 12, is the latest project from brothers Jake and Jes Farris. The duo has worked tirelessly on a tight timeline to put together an event that promises to offer something new while still honoring the local festival culture.
“We’re not trying to replace Three Rivers Festival,” said Jake Farris. “But we do hope to capture some of the excitement that people have come to expect during the summer months.” With the Three Rivers Festival 2025 canceled after financial troubles, the Farris brothers are stepping up to fill the gap and provide the community with a reason to celebrate.
What to Expect at Big Fort Fest
Big Fort Fest isn’t just another summer event. It’s designed to bring a new energy to Fort Wayne’s festival scene, one that’s exciting for people of all ages. Set in the scenic Headwaters Park, the event will feature an eclectic mix of attractions, from live music performances to family-friendly activities like a petting zoo. There’s even a new market on the horizon, showcasing local vendors and creators. Of course, the festival wouldn’t be complete without an array of classic festival foods and games that everyone can enjoy.
For festival-goers, the three-day event promises to deliver a wide range of activities that will keep them entertained throughout the weekend. Whether you’re drawn to the music, the games, or the animals, there’s something for everyone.
Filling the Void Left by Three Rivers Festival
The Three Rivers Festival has long been a staple of summer in Fort Wayne, but its cancellation this year left many wondering what the city would do without it. Jake and Jes don’t see Big Fort Fest as a replacement for the beloved event, but rather as an opportunity to keep the festival spirit alive in a fresh way.
“I think the timing is perfect,” Jes Farris said. “People want to have something to look forward to. We’re hoping this festival becomes something that grows and evolves each year.”
Though it is only in its inaugural year, the Farris brothers are already looking ahead. The festival’s organizers plan to use this first event as a foundation, building it up with community support to make it even bigger and better in the future.
A Family Legacy of Organizing Events
The Farris brothers aren’t new to the festival scene. They are also responsible for organizing tattoo festivals across the country, including the annual Fort Wayne Tattoo Festival. Their experience in event planning has provided them with the knowledge and resources to bring Big Fort Fest to life, despite the tight timeline.
Though the brothers’ previous events have been successful, this is their first foray into organizing a festival of this scale. It’s clear that they are invested in not only the success of this event but also in its ability to become a cornerstone of Fort Wayne’s summer offerings.
The Community’s Role in the Festival’s Success
While Jake and Jes are leading the charge, they hope the community plays an active role in shaping the festival’s future. “We want people to come out, get involved, and make this their own,” said Jake. “The goal is to create an unforgettable experience that everyone can enjoy.”
Big Fort Fest is about more than just entertainment—it’s about creating a sense of pride and connection among Fort Wayne residents. The Farris brothers believe that with the right support, Big Fort Fest will become a must-attend event for years to come.
