Holiday Issue
Happy Holidays, Friends and Neighbors!
My name is Matt Coffel, and I am the CEO and one of the founders of Fort Wayne Lifestyle. It has been an honor and a pleasure to come into your homes every month for the last year. I just wanted to take a moment to say thank you. You have made this year very special, and this feels like our very own Christmas miracle. It’s the best Christmas gift we could have received. We are looking forward to continuing to grow with the city and communities we call home.
Thank you,
Matt Coffel,
CEO matt@fortwaynelifestyle.com
FORT WAYNE lifestyle
December 2025
PUBLISHER
Billy Moore | publisher@fortwaynelifestyle.com
CEO
Matt Coffel CEO | matt@fortwaynelifestyle.com
CREATIVE DIRECTOR
Duane McCoy | nightvigil468@gmail.com
PHOTOGRAPHER
Giovanny Durand | Giovannydurand22@gmail.com
SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER
Jessica Shultz | jess@fortywaynelifestyle.com
CONCIERGE OF HOSPITALITY AND HAPPINESS
Linda Robberts
WRITER
Vincenzo Capriani
At Fort Wayne Lifestyle, we are committed to consistently delivering high-quality, engaging content that highlights the vibrant community of Fort Wayne. From parks and local attractions to entertainment venues and family-friendly events, we celebrate everything that makes the Summit City a great place to live, work, and explore.
Whether it’s a TinCaps baseball game, a local movie night, or a day at the zoo, our mission is to connect residents and visitors alike with the best experiences Fort Wayne has to offer—because Fort Wayne Lifestyle is all about you.
(Including Greater Allen, DeKalb, Huntington, and Wells counties)
A Look Inside
AROUND TOWN
Exploring the Hidden Gems of Our Town
1. The Fort Wayne Lifestyle team at Glenbrook Collision Center for a behind-the-scenes photoshoot.
2. David Detwiler, of Farmers Insurance, with his daughter Isla Detwiler, at Steve Martin & Martin Short at the Embassy Theatre.
3. David Hand, of Insurance by Hand, hosted the LAAIA networking event in the amazing city of Chicago.
4. Publisher Bill, getting ready for our Networking event, graciously hosted by our partners at Pin-Up Curls.
5. Our partners, Floor Coverings International set up at their booth at the HBA remodeling Expo and Builder Showcase.
6. Lifestyle reader, Tyler, celebrated his birthday at Storming Crab.
Business Updates
Insurance by Hand Welcomes New Fort Wayne Agent
Insurance by Hand has expanded its Fort Wayne presence with a new location at 10812 Coldwater Road, Suite 500, Fort Wayne, IN 46845, and has added a new team member, Cheyanne Sharp. Cheyanne joins the agency as a licensed insurance professional dedicated to helping local families and businesses find the best coverage for their needs. Insurance by Hand offers customized policies for auto, home, life, recreational, and small business insurance, making protection simple and accessible. For personalized service or a quote comparison, contact Cheyanne at 260-969-8702 or CSharp@InsurancebyHand.com. Visit the team in person or online to explore coverage options tailored for the Fort Wayne community.
Spirit Christmas Pops Up in Fort Wayne
Spirit Christmas has opened at 3958 Illinois Road and will operate through December 31, 2025. Inside the new pop-up, guests can stroll through “Peppermint Village,” an immersive in-store experience packed with festive décor, interactive displays, and photo opportunities with Santa. Expect aisles of ornaments, gifts, ugly sweaters, and wrapping supplies—all in a playful, hands-on setting that turns shopping into a holiday outing. Families can plan a Santa stop while exploring the store’s themed zones and character displays inspired by seasonal favorites. Whether you’re decking the halls or grabbing last-minute presents, this temporary shop brings big-holiday energy close to home.
FOOD for THOUGHT
Snickerdoodle Doo
1 ½ cups white sugar
1 cup softened butter
2 large eggs
2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons cream of tartar
1 teaspoon of baking soda
¼ teaspoon salt
Coating:
2 tablespoons white sugar
2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon
Gather the ingredients.
Preheat the oven to 400°F.
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
To make the cookies:
Beat white sugar, butter, and eggs together in a large bowl using an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
Combine the flour, cream of tartar, baking soda, and salt in a separate bowl. Stir these ingredients into the creamed butter mixture until the dough holds together.
Make the coating:
Mix white sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl until well combined. Form dough into balls (about 2 teaspoons in each ball), then roll in cinnamon-sugar coating. Place dough balls about 2 inches apart onto the prepared baking sheet.
Bake in the preheated oven on the center rack for 7 minutes.
Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve and enjoy!
Amazing Eggnog
Submitted By: Natalie’s mom
4 cups of milk
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
5 whole cloves
2 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract, divided 12 large egg yolks
1 ½ cups white sugar
4 cups light cream
¾ teaspoon ground nutmeg
Choose your favorite! Any of these is great: Whiskey, bourbon, rum or brandy.
Gather all ingredients.
Combine milk, cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon vanilla, and cloves in a saucepan over the lowest heat setting; stir and heat for 5 minutes. Increase the heat to medium-low and slowly bring to a boil.
Remove from the heat.
Whisk egg yolks in a large bowl until light yellow in color. Add sugar and whisk until light and fluffy.
Pour some of the hot milk mixture into the egg yolk mixture, whisk quickly to avoid scrambling the eggs. Continue adding hot milk and whisking to combine until all milk is incorporated.
Pour the mixture back into the saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thick, about 3 minutes; do not allow the mixture to boil.
Strain to remove cloves and let cool for about 1 hour, then stir in cream, alcohol of choice (optional), remaining 2 teaspoons vanilla, and nutmeg.
Refrigerate before serving, 8 hours to overnight.
For a festive presentation, coat the rim of the glass with colored sugar, top it with whipped cream, sprinkle with cinnamon, and finish with a cinnamon or peppermint stick.
Serve and enjoy!
Winter’s Here, Whether You Like It or Not:
Fort Wayne’s Annual Snow Tire Scramble
Ah, Fort Wayne in December — that magical time of year when the Christmas lights are glowing, the air smells faintly of salt and coffee, and everyone suddenly remembers they live in Indiana, not the North Pole’s parking lot. Yes, folks, it’s that special season again: the one where snow appears overnight, and your tires start questioning all your life choices.
Every year, there’s that one guy proudly declaring, “I’ll be fine. I’ve got all-seasons.” And every year, he’s the same guy doing the “holiday shuffle” through a Jefferson Boulevard intersection at 5 miles an hour, clinging to his steering wheel and his dignity. Don’t be that guy. This is your not-so-subtle reminder from Trux Unlimited, Fort Wayne’s go-to shop for snow tires, 4x4 accessories, and general winter survival: it’s time to winterize, even if you’d rather be stringing lights or hiding from your in-laws.
At Trux Unlimited, they’ve seen it all — from trucks that think they’re sleds to SUVs trying to climb snowbanks like they’re auditioning for Frozen 3: Fort Wayne Drift.
Their crew has been busy swapping out tires, checking lift kits, installing LED light bars (so you can actually see the deer that’s about to photobomb your headlights), and helping locals stay on the road instead of in a ditch.
And yes, we get it — you were just getting used to not scraping ice off your windshield. But let’s face it, a good set of snow tires is cheaper than an insurance claim and a bruised ego. Plus, your ride will look sharp enough to impress Santa as he passes over Glenbrook Mall.
So, before you tell yourself, “It probably won’t snow that much this year,” stop by Trux Unlimited. They’ll hook you up with the right tires, gear, and maybe even a little holiday sparkle for your rig. Because in Fort Wayne, winter doesn’t care if you’re ready — but your car definitely does.
Pines, Twine & Good Times
Three Fort Wayne Tree Farms for That Perfect Tree
Ready to swap turkeys for pine needles? Here are three local spots serving fresh-cut trees with all the cozy vibes
Koontz Tree Farm — 6827 Huguenard Rd, Fort Wayne
Daily hours 11:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
Every cut-your-own tree is a flat $60, any size, any type. Scotch Pine and White Pine are ready for the hunt (saws provided). Prefer to plant later? Grab a potted Blue Spruce, Norway Spruce, or White Pine for $75. If you have any questions, call (260) 413-5378, (260) 450-5153, or email joycekoontz@frontier.com.
Happy Goat Christmas Tree Farm — 7602 Butt Rd, Fort Wayne
“A Christmas experience that’s more than just buying a tree.” Perfect for holiday selfies with rustic backdrops.
Hours:
Saturday, December 6, 13 & 20 from 10:00-5:00 PM Sunday, December 7, 14 & 21 from 1:00-5:00 PM Mondays-Fridays: By Appointment Only For more information, email happygoattreefarm@gmail.com.
St. Joe Christmas Tree Farm — 9801 St. Joe Rd, Fort Wayne | (260) 486-4336
Family-owned, country-calm, and built for traditions. Hours: Nov 30–Dec 7 10 a.m.–6 p.m.; Dec 8–14 12–6 p.m.
Pro tips for a smoother tree-hunting mission: bring gloves, a blanket, and twine for the roof, measure your ceiling before you go, and take plenty of pictures. Then it’s hot cocoa, twinkly lights, and that first whiff of Christmas taking over the living room.
Fort Wayne, let the tree-picking adventure begin!
November 28th, 2025 - December 21st, 2025
2025 Festival of Gingerbread
The History Center | Mon-Thur 9:00 AM-5:00 PM Fri-Sat 9:00 AM-8:00 PM Sun 12:00 PM-5:00 PM
Festival of Gingerbread 2025 will be held from November 28th to December 21st at the History Center. Here is your opportunity to show off your culinary skills with a gingerbread creation of your own. On Lighting Night, November 26th, visitors can get a sneak peek at the gingerbread creations from 3 to 9 pm, when admission is only $4 per person.
November 28th, 2025 - January 4th, 2026
Wild Lights at the Fort Wayne Zoo
Fort Wayne Zoo | Sun-Thurs 5:00-10:00 PM Fri-Sat from 5:00 PM to 11:00 PM
A new family tradition, Wild Lights at the Fort Wayne Zoo, begins in Santa’s Cottage with the opportunity to meet Santa himself. Guests can then journey into the Zoo and walk among a dazzling display of nearly one million lights, attend a dance party and nightly tree-lighting hosted by Santa’s elves, toast s’mores, ride the Evergreen Express, decorate sugar cookies with festive favorites, and even get nose-to-nose with Santa’s reindeer!
December 6th, 13th & 20th, 2025
Santa Saturdays
Foellinger-Freimann Botanical Conservatory | 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM
Santa Saturdays are back at the Botanical Conservatory! Choose from three festive dates in December to meet jolly old St. Nick and capture a holiday photo surrounded by the sparkling wonder of the “Fern’s Fairylight Express” showcase exhibit. Please note: Santa takes a cookie break from 2:00 to 2:30 p.m. Regular admission rates apply.
December 5th-8th, 12th-14th, 2025
A Christmas Story
First Presbyterian Theater | 3:00 PM & 7:00 PM
Rediscover the magic of the season with A Christmas Story, the hilarious & heartwarming play based on the timeless holiday film. Follow 9-year-old Hoosier Ralphie Parker on his quest for the ultimate Christmas gift- a Red Ryder BB gun. Along the way, he must navigate the trials of childhood, a grumpy Santa, a freezing flagpole, and, of course, his father’s infamous leg lamp. A Christmas Story is a festive treat for the whole family.
December 13th, 2025
Jingle Jamboree @ Glenbrook Square
Glenbrook Square | 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM
Glebrook Square is thrilled to bring back Jingle Jamboree, a festive day filled with holiday cheer and community spirit! This December, we’re inviting local choirs, musicians, dance teams, karate groups, and community organizations to take the stage and help make this celebration one to remember. Enjoy a day of live entertainment, festive performances, and plenty of holiday magic for the whole family.
December 18th, 2025
Holiday Pops
Auer Performance Hall at Purdue University Fort Wayne | 7:30 PM
Step into the enchanting world of the Fort Wayne Philharmonic’s Holiday Pops performances, where cherished traditions and festive melodies come together to usher in the joyous spirit of the season. As the air fills with the sounds of holiday classics, our world-class musicians will transport you to a winter wonderland of musical delight.
December 20th, 2025
Christmas Cabaret
University of Saint Francis | 7:30 PM
One night only this year! Don’t miss the amazing talent that comes back to town each year during the Christmas holiday season.
Directors: Andrew Sherman
Musical Direction: Peter Klopfenstein
December 20th & 21st, 2025
Christmas: A Light in the Darkness
Allen County Courthouse | 7:30 PM to 9:00 PM
The Spirit of Christmas: a Light in the Darkness at the Allen County Courthouse has become a Fort Wayne holiday tradition. Hear time-honored carols, original holiday compositions, and enjoy selections that celebrate the arrival of the Light of the World.
November 22nd, 2025 - April 12th, 2026
Fern’s Fairylight Express
Foellinger-Freimann Botanical Conservatory | Recurring daily
All aboard the Botanical Conservatory’s journey of discovery, imagination, and botanical wonder. Read along and join your new favorite characters, Fern, Bug, and Sprout, on an unforgettable adventure through Fairy Glen. Experience the magical transformation of the Fairylight Express as you collaboratively work to get it back on track. For visitors of all ages, don’t miss this opportunity to Let Your Imagination GROW!
December 27th, 2025
That Arena Rock Show: A Celebration of 70’s and 80’s Rock Clyde Theatre | 8:00 PM
That Arena Rock Show is the ultimate high-energy theatrical tribute to classic rock ‘n roll show will take you on a trip back in time. Join the band in singing out loud to the legendary rock anthems that ruled the airwaves in the ‘70s and ‘80s, including songs from artists like Led Zeppelin, Aerosmith, AC/ DC, Bon Jovi, and Guns N’ Roses. Get your phone lights out and pump your fist in the air, because this rock show is more than just music – it’s an experience!
Scan the QR code for more information on local events.
TRAVEL
Event Dates Nov. 21, 2025—Jan. 4, 2026
Christmas in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter™
“The best part was seeing everything decorated! Wreaths and garlands were everywhere. It was so beautiful, especially in Hogsmeade, which has snow on the buildings.
Hogwarts™ castle lights up the night and festive decor brings cheer to Hogsmeade™, Diagon Alley™, and wizarding Paris. It’s Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ across three parks at Universal Orlando Resort. Get into the holiday spirit with The Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts™ Castle projection show at Hogsmeade™ in Universal Islands of Adventure.
With a Park-to-Park ticket, you can travel between King’s Cross Station in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ – Diagon Alley™ at Universal Studios Florida and Hogsmeade™ Station in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ – Hogsmeade™ in Universal Islands of Adventure.
UNIVERSAL’S HOLIDAY PARADE FEATURING MACY’S
Catch larger-than-life balloons floating through the streets of Universal Studios Florida, along with appearances by the Minions from Illumination’s Despicable Me and some of your favorite characters from DreamWorks Animation’s Shrek and Madagascar films.
Gather along the streets of Universal Studios Florida each night to catch the parade. You can’t miss the classic Macy’s star balloons. Delight as dancers parade past, dressed in their holiday finest.
- Universal Orlando Resort
Holidays at Universal is always a special time for Passholders with Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™, the Who-liday festivities of Grinchmas™, and the amazing balloons of Universal’s Holiday Parade featuring Macy’s. You can enjoy exclusive Passholder Holidays perks, including hotel benefits, a Holiday button giveaway, and a special viewing area for the parade.
From Screen to Stage: Celebrating A Christmas
Story with Ralphie Himself
Ring in the season with a nostalgic night at Fort Wayne’s Embassy Theatre on Thursday, December 19. Doors open at 6:30 PM and the show begins at 7:30 PM with a special screening of the beloved holiday classic A Christmas Story. After the credits roll, the film’s iconic star, Peter Billingsley—Ralphie himself— takes the stage for a moderated conversation and audience Q&A, sharing candid behind-the-scenes stories, memorable moments from set, and reflections on how this small-town tale became a decades-long cultural staple.
This rare, interactive appearance invites fans of all ages to revisit the film’s hilarious mishaps and heartwarming beats on the big screen, then hear directly from the actor who helped make them unforgettable. A limited number of VIP packages include a pre-show meet-and-greet and photo opportunity with Billingsley—perfect for holiday keepsakes and superfans.
Don’t miss this festive one-night event that pairs silver-screen tradition with live storytelling.
Tickets and Details:
(Information and image credit: Embassy Theatre.)
