Fort Wayne
Today
Saturday, October 11th, 2025
Good morning, Fort Wayne. Here's your local news at a glance for Saturday, the 11th of October.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ Erin’s House raised $400k during Wine for the Spirit on Oct. 10 — funds that will support youth grief support programs — and the event helped local families cope with loss. 21Alive
- ➤ Today, the Fort Wayne Zoo hosts Wild Zoo Halloween from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., featuring a Superhero Weekend with costumed characters, treat stations and story time in the Discovery Garden, plus pumpkin enrichment for zoo animals. The event will continue with a new theme each weekend, with Pirates and Princesses scheduled next and trick-or-treating running until October 26th. WFFT-TV
- ➤ The Journal Gazette Foundation board awarded $46,000 in grants to United Way of Allen County – $22,500, Fort Wayne Trails – $5,000, Healthier Moms & Babies – $5,000, Just Neighbors Interfaith Homeless Network – $5,000, Fort Wayne Urban League – $5,000 and Neighborhood Link – $3,500 which raised its total giving to more than $500,000 this year. The Journal Gazette
BUSINESS NEWS
- ➤ Darlington Holiday Warehouse is now open for its 21st season at 615 Coliseum Boulevard West and will offer all things Christmas at discount prices until December 24. The store will host daily giveaways and children’s activities — drawing visitors from across the Midwest. 21Alive
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ Fort Wayne will host its 21st annual Christmas on Broadway event on November 21 at Broadway Plaza starting at 5:00 p.m. as it will feature a parade led by the Concordia Lutheran High School Marching Band and a tree lighting at 6:00 p.m.—with a new Polar Express Train Ride offering festive fun for children. WOWO
- ➤ Today, downtown Roanoke hosts a free Renaissance art show from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Main Street featuring local artists, children’s activities, and live music—drawing visitors from the region. In Fort Wayne, the Philharmonic will perform a Star Wars concert with John Williams’ score—and a LEGO exhibit showcasing 32,000 square feet of builds offers interactive fun for families. WOWO
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ Indiana’s chronic absenteeism rate improved for the third year in a row, but lawmakers said more work was needed as nearly one in three high school seniors missed a lot of school. State Representative Craig Snow supported a law that prevents schools from expelling or suspending students solely for attendance issues+ and lawmakers stressed that hands-on learning could further engage students. WOWO
- ➤ A local childcare center reflected on how recent voucher cuts have affected families and local organizations—staff said many parents now struggle to find affordable, quality care. The center’s report highlights growing challenges in accessing childcare as support diminishes. 21Alive
- ➤ Southwest Allen County Schools proposed a new policy to allow more non-resident students and ease transfer rules so that open seats are filled without enlarging class sizes. The school board will vote on Oct 21 and the plan details priorities for children living with a SACS student and staff children (with required salary thresholds) following community feedback. The Journal Gazette
ENVIRONMENT NEWS
- ➤ The Allen County Soil and Water Conservation District said the St. Marys River is one of Indiana's most polluted waters based on 25 years of tests+ weekly tests found high levels of phosphorus, nitrogen and ammonia. The agency will soon hold public meetings to plan a two-year watershed management effort funded by a $150,000 grant. The Journal Gazette
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ The Fort Wayne Police Department announced trick-or-treating will be held from 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm on October 31 and urged residents to follow safety tips + such as cautious driving and using flame-resistant costumes to protect children. US 93.3
- ➤ Fort Wayne's economic development officials have poured millions into building over 153 miles of trails to attract new residents and boost local business—plans include connecting these trails into a continuous urban system. City Council has not yet approved a key 2.3-mile downtown expansion at a cost of $1.6 million, and officials will face continued design and budget challenges as work moves forward. The Journal Gazette
LIFESTYLE NEWS
- ➤ Tux, a cat raised in a foster home who gets along well with children and other cats, is available for adoption with no fees thanks to a partnership with the Bissell Pet Foundation — giving Fort Wayne families a chance to welcome a friendly pet. WFFT-TV
-
Mario Adrion Stand-Up Comedy Show
7-10 p.m. — Summit City Comedy Club — Tickets required — Enjoy a night of laughs with German comedian Mario Adrion, known for his unique European charm and hilarious storytelling.
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Wheel Of Fortune Live!
7-8:30 p.m. — Embassy Theatre — Chance to win prizes — Experience the excitement of America's Game live in Fort Wayne.
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Violent Femmes Concert
7:30-9:30 p.m. — Embassy Theatre — Ticket prices may vary — Experience the influential sounds of the Violent Femmes with their unique blend of acoustic angst and alternative rock.
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Tommy Emmanuel Live Concert
7:30-9:30 p.m. — Clyde Theatre — Starting at $35 — Experience Grammy-winning guitarist Tommy Emmanuel as he mesmerizes with his virtuosic guitar skills and engaging performance.
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Fright Night Silent Film: The Phantom Of The Opera
7-8:30 p.m. — Embassy Theatre — $10 general admission, free for members and under 12 or seniors — Experience the classic silent horror film with live organ accompaniment.
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River City Rat Race
2-6 p.m. — Historic Old Fort — Registration fees apply — Experience one of the most scenic 10K races through the autumn parks and riverfront of downtown Fort Wayne.
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