Smart Living Fort Wayne- June 2025 by Northwest Quarterly Mag

Executive

Senior

Managing

Assistant

Graphics

Graphic

Contributing

General

Sales

Advertising

Administration

Summer in the Fort

There’s something special about northern Indiana in the summer. Our little slice of midwestern America transforms into a place buzzing with music, festivals, laughter and lakeside lounging.

Downtown Fort Wayne, in particular, becomes a hub of activity. You can wander along the riverfront, grab a drink at The Landing, and watch kids splash through the Promenade Park fountains all in the span of an hour. You might catch live music echoing from Headwaters Park or find yourself swept into a local food truck rally where the hardest part of your day is choosing between birria tacos or a pulled pork slider.

For families, it’s hard to beat a day at the Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo, widely ranked among the best in the country. And just down the road, Science Central keeps minds busy even when school’s out. On Saturdays, the YLNI Farmers Market draws in early risers with fresh produce, handmade goods and strong coffee — fuel for the rest of your summer adventures.

Ballpark evenings at Parkview Field are a must. Whether you’re a die-hard TinCaps fan or just there for the food, fireworks and social scene, it’s one of those experiences that feels like the essence of an American summer.

There’s also a slower pace if that’s what you’re after. Rent a kayak and paddle your way through the city’s water trails. Bike the Rivergreenway under canopies of green. Or, just sit under the shade of a tree at Lakeside Park, where the roses bloom like clockwork and the world seems to slow down.

The truth is, Fort Wayne might not always make the cover of other glossy magazines. But in summer, we have everything that really matters: community, creativity and moments that feel simple and good. There’s joy here, hiding in plain sight.

So whether you’ve lived here for decades or are new to town, make this your season to lean into everything we have to offer. Enjoy your summer! ❚

Lindsey Lukas Senior Editor

Sunlight to Savings: Solar Energy’s Benefts

By Peggy Werner

Going solar is a big investment in the future and it’s more affordable than ever, according to Larry Miller, co-owner of Solect Energy with his cousin, Mike Miller.

“In the past two years, there has been a 30 to 40 percent decrease in the cost of inverters, solar panels and batteries,” Larry says. “Five years ago, the investment paid for itself in 15 years – now it’s five to seven years.”

For that reason, Solect Energy, based in LaGrange, has expanded the area it serves to include Fort Wayne, South Bend, some of Michigan and other communities within a 75-mile radius of the headquarters.

The Amish family-owned business specializes in residential, commercial and agricultural solar systems. They also offer a variety of products for homes that are “off-grid,” including batteries, charge controllers, inverters, solar panels, appliances, prewired solar kits and portable solar sheds.

Inverters can transfer power from solar energy (direct current, or DC) into an alternating current (AC). Most household appliances are designed to run on AC, while DC is generated by renewable energy sources or batteries.

“The off-grid movement has really picked up steam in the past five years as people get familiar with the products,” Larry says. “And it continues to grow because the quality of products has greatly improved and the products have become much more affordable.”

A solar system for the home reduces your monthly electric bill, generates clean energy from the sun, increases the value of

your home and provides power during blackouts. Solect Energy offers a variety of options depending on each customer’s needs and budget. Some customers opt for a grid-tied solar system with no battery storage, while others go for a whole home backup, ensuring every corner of the house stays powered up.

The off-grid packages are also popular for cabins and other remote locations, Larry adds. When going totally off-grid, you don’t have an unlimited supply of power, so you want to use clean energy as efficiently as possible.

Sun Star Appliances are a great option when living off-grid because they are manufactured locally, designed for efficiency and work best with battery-based solar systems, Larry says.

Sun Star’s latest product is a 10-cubic-foot refrigerator/ freezer designed for recreational vehicles, hunting trips and camping. According to Larry, it’s essentially a smaller version of the larger model they’ve been producing for years. A grid-tied solar system saves money, reduces the impact on the environment and is maintenance free.

For those wanting total energy independence and additional protection against blackouts, a hybrid grid-tied solar system is another choice. The system includes battery backup and customized configurations, giving you the freedom to design a system that uniquely meets your style of home and needs.

Solect Energy offers custom solar packages, and there are federal and state incentives to offset the costs.

For more information or to schedule a free consultation, contact the Millers at (260) 499-3051, visit the showroom from 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Mon.-Fri., or go to solectenergyllc.com. ❚

Solect Energy, in LaGrange, serves communities within a 75-mile radius. The Amish family-owned business specializes in residential, commercial and agricultural solar systems.

FARMHOUSE BREWERY COTTAGE AIRBNB DESTINATION FARM

Blueberry Fest Brings Big Fun to Plymouth

By Lindsey Lukas, senior editor

Every Labor Day weekend, Marshall

County transforms into a vibrant hub of music, crafts and blueberry-flavored everything as the beloved Blueberry Festival takes over Centennial Park in Plymouth, Ind. This year’s festival takes place Aug. 29 from noon-9 p.m., Aug. 30 & 31 from 9 a.m.-9 p.m., and Sept. 1 from 9 a.m.-6p.m.

Festival Coordinator Tracy Houin says there’s all kinds of fun at this free, family-friendly celebration.

“We’ve got three stages full of live entertainment, a beer garden, a carnival, fireworks and even a Saturday night drone show that we’re especially excited about,” she says. “But what really sets us apart are the 600 craft, commercial and food booths. You can find almost anything.”

While music lovers enjoy back-to-back performances across the stages, families appreciate the free kids’ section and classic carnival rides.

“We always want to make sure there’s plenty for the kids to do,” Houin adds. “The free kids’ zone is a hit every year.”

The festival is also a food lover’s dream.

“We work hard to make sure there’s a nice variety of food

options,” Houin says. “Really, anything you can think of, we’ve got it.”

With so many vendors on site, Houin adds it’s impossible to choose just one favorite.

“We’re proud of the diversity and quality of our vendors. You’ll find handmade goods, unique gifts and plenty of blueberry-themed treats, of course.”

One of the highlights for 2025 is the addition of a drone show on Saturday night.

“It’s something new we’re offering this year, and we think people are going to love it,” Houin says. “It’s a modern twist on traditional festival fun.”

Admission to the Blueberry Festival is free, and parking is readily available, with Plymouth High School serving as the primary parking site.

Visitors are encouraged to arrive early and explore all the festivities the weekend has to offer.

More than just a good time, the festival has a meaningful impact on the community.

“We provide several nonprofit organizations with opportunities to raise funds, often enough to support their operations for the entire year,” Houin says. “It’s one of the ways we’re able to give back while also bringing thousands of visitors to our amazing community.”

For Houin, coordinating the festival is a labor of love. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, the Blueberry Festival is a showcase of Marshall County’s charm, hospitality and spirit.

“I’m proud to be a small part of something so big,” she says. “Our board members and volunteers work incredibly hard to make this happen, and I love seeing the joy it brings to people. It’s all about community.” ❚

Blueberry Festival has three stages of live entertainment featuring back-toback performances for music lovers.

Blueberry Festival, in Plymouth, takes place Aug. 29-Sept. 1 and features live entertainment, a beer garden, a carnival, freworks and a new Saturday night drone show.

David or Solomon?

King Solomon was the richest man of his day. The son of King David and Bathsheba, he ruled a vast empire and knew every pleasure in the world. He constructed the first Temple of the Lord in Jerusalem and is remembered for his wisdom, a gift he asked for and received from God when he was young.

Solomon told God, “I am only a little child and do not know how to carry out my duties … So give your servant a discerning heart to govern Your people and to distinguish between right and wrong. For who is able to govern this great people of Yours?” – 1 Kings 3:7-9

God answered Solomon’s prayer, but Solomon eventually squandered this great gift. He forgot Whose people he governed and, over time, began treating them badly. He denied God the one thing God really wanted from Solomon: a loving and obedient relationship.

“For it came to pass, when Solomon was old, that his wives turned away his heart after other gods: and his heart was not perfect with the Lord his God, as was the heart of David his father … And the Lord was angry with Solomon, because his heart was turned from the Lord God of Israel, which had appeared unto him twice.” – I Kings 11:4-9

How many of us have longed to see God in person just once? Solomon saw God twice and still managed to put worldly things ahead of Him. For all his wisdom, Solomon was no David because his heart was not right with God.

David behaved very badly at times, but he desperately loved God and always returned to Him with humility. He spent time with God, dancing and singing for Him, and writing love poems to God, something frowned upon by the joyless religious class of the day. David experienced joy with God beyond anything Solomon ever knew and God called David “a man after my own heart.”

Solomon built an impressive Temple, but David built an unshakable place for God inside his heart. Who was the richer man? Who does God tell us to emulate?

Humility matters and God is not fooled by man’s hubris. ❚ – Janine Pumilia

Summer Fun: Lakes, Trails & Local Charm

By Lindsey Lukas, senior editor

Whensummer finally settles into northeast Indiana, the region transforms into a playground of natural beauty, nostalgic charm and lakeside adventure.

Whether you’re hiking through a state park, exploring quaint downtowns or coasting across a sun-drenched lake, summer here suits every pace and personality. From Steuben County’s lake culture to DeKalb County’s vintage car vibes to the lakeside beauty of Kosciusko County, this corner of the Hoosier State is a must-visit destination.

Steuben County: Trails and Floating Adventures

Ask anyone in Steuben County what summer is all about, and they’ll likely point you straight to Pokagon State Park.

“Pokagon is our most-visited destination year-round,” says Janet Hartsuff, communications manager for the Steuben County Tourism Bureau.

And it’s for good reason. Nestled beside Lake James, this 1,260-acre gem offers a little bit of everything: campgrounds, two sandy beaches, picnic areas, a nature center and even boat rentals.

One of the park’s highlights is its hiking trail system, with paths ranging from under a mile to just over two. Then, for the

ambitious, there’s the “Hell’s Point Challenge,” an 8-mile loop that climbs to Pokagon’s highest point.

“There’s an awesome lookout at the top of the 84 steps you climb to get there,” Hartsuff says. “The view is worth the hike.”

If you’re looking for a different kind of trail, try a guided horseback ride through the park. Open daily in the summer for

Steuben County’s Pokagon State Park is nestled beside Lake James, a gem that ofers sandy beaches and ample opportunity for summer fun.

Summertime in northeast Indiana is the perfect mix of nature, nostalgia and neighborly charm.

(Steuben County Tourism Bureau photo)

riders at least 8 years old, it’s a memorable way to explore Pokagon’s forests and lakeshores.

When you’re not on foot or horseback, take to the water on Lake James and neighboring Lake George, two of Steuben County’s most beloved lakes. Both are hot spots for boating, jet skiing and paddleboarding. Lake James, in particular, comes alive in the summer with an antique and classic boat show on July 26 that draws crowds from across the region. It’s the perfect blend of lake life and vintage charm.

Steuben County also hosts several can’t-miss summer festivals. The Angola Balloons Aloft festival, set for July 11–12 this year, sees 30 colorful hot air balloons – plus five whimsical special shapes – filling the skies over Angola High School. Other local favorites include Fremont Musicfest, the Orland Vermont Settlement Festival and Summerfest in Hamilton. Don’t forget the Fort Wayne Philharmonic’s performance at Pokagon, sure to be a beautiful evening of music surrounded by nature.

Visit lakes101.org for more information.

DeKalb County: Nostalgia on Four Wheels

Drive a bit south and you’ll find yourself in DeKalb County, where summer has a classic Americana feel. Auburn, the county’s heart, is a paradise for car lovers. From world-class automobile museums to a full calendar of car shows, this city wears its history proudly.

Amber Caccamo, executive director of Visit DeKalb, raves about the area’s love affair with all things automotive.

“You will see so many antique, classic and high-end cars on any random day when the weather is nice outside,” she says.

And if that’s your thing, don’t miss the Auburn Cord Duesenberg (ACD) Festival – a summer tradition happening the week prior to Labor Day that draws automotive enthusiasts from across the country.

But DeKalb County isn’t all chrome and engines. It’s also home to charming wineries and distilleries like Country Heritage Winery, Byler Lane Winery, Cupka’s Bee Good Meadery and more. Whether you’re relaxing on a patio or listening to live music, these spots are perfect for an end-of-day wind-down.

If you’re itching for some outdoor fun, try kayaking the St. Joseph River, with launch points in Auburn and St. Joe. One of the most picturesque spots is next to the Spencerville Covered Bridge, a historic treasure and local photo-op. DeKalb also boasts scenic trails, like the expanding Auburn Junction Trail, great for walkers and bikers alike. Finally, don’t miss the reopening of the Auburn Garrett Drive-In, which is a blast from the past that’s ready to entertain a new generation.

For more information, go to visitdekalb.org.

Kosciusko County: Leisure and Waterfront Charm

No roundup of northeast Indiana summer fun would be complete without Kosciusko County, home to more than 100 lakes, including the stunning Winona Lake and Syracuse Lake.

Winona Lake is a hub of summer activity with crystal-clear waters perfect for paddleboarding, kayaking or simply floating the day away. On land, the Village at Winona offers boutique shopping, art galleries and casual eateries, ideal for a laid-back afternoon after a morning on the water.

A short drive north, Syracuse Lake invites visitors to enjoy the best of small-town hospitality mixed with aquatic adventure. Known for its family-friendly atmosphere, it’s a great spot for boating, fishing or catching a lakeside sunset. The nearby Wawasee Area Conservancy Foundation trails also offer scenic walks with educational stops along the way.

Kosciusko’s summer calendar includes local festivals, farmers markets and live music events that bring the community together. From art fairs to Independence Day boat parades, you’re never far from fun in the sun.

Head to visitkosciuskocounty.org to learn more.

Whether you’re exploring the trails of Pokagon State Park, paddling the peaceful waters of Syracuse Lake, or catching a classic car cruise through Auburn, summertime in northeast Indiana is the perfect mix of nature, nostalgia and neighborly charm. Pack your sunscreen and your sense of adventure, because this region is ready to make your summer unforgettable. ❚

DeKalb County has a classic Americana feel in the summer, especially during the Auburn Cord Duesenberg Festival.

Kosciusko County boats more than 100 lakes, perfect for kayaking the day away.

(Visit DeKalb photo)

Timberline Brings People Back Outdoors

By Peggy Werner

Timberline Backyard specializes in transforming outdoor spaces to help people connect with nature and each other, all while embracing good-old-fashioned values.

“We are big on community and want to help our neighbors,” says Owner Barry Grant, who is also a non-denominational pastor and former missionary to Haiti.

Making the most of outdoor spaces is key to building and sustaining happy, healthy relationships and strong communities, he says. Timberline Backyard can transform empty backyards into playgrounds for kids, a place to relax and talk with friends and family, a setting to enjoy family cookouts or formal outdoor dinner parties and more.

Timberline Backyard’s maintenance-free vinyl furniture – crafted primarily from 100% recycled plastic and mostly built locally – comes in a wide range of styles and colors, whether you’re after something contemporary, traditional, or more elegant and decorative.

Smooth vinyl surfaces, rounded corners, and soft grip handles make each swing set child friendly and safe. All are built with pressure-treated wood encased in a tough vinyl covering and stainless-steel fasteners. The thick-molded vinyl, powdercoated brackets and double-coated zinc chains make the play equipment strong and durable. Swing sets can range from simple designs with just a few swings to extravagant setups featuring towers with roofs, multiple slides, rock walls, gangplanks and more.

Timberline Backyard’s pergolas, gazebos, and pavilions are crafted from solid wood sourced from trees grown in the USA. Their timber-framed pavilions are ideal for outdoor entertaining, especially when paired with an outdoor kitchen. Every structure can be custom-built to suit any patio or setting.

Pergolas serve a variety of purposes—from supporting climbing rose bushes to creating a cozy spot for reading on a

swing or offering shade while spending time with friends. One model features a motorized louvered system that opens and closes with a remote for adjustable overhead coverage. Installing a string of lights can make a shelter a unique showpiece after dark. Whether simple or feature-rich, pergolas can transform any backyard into a relaxing and stylish haven for entertaining.

Barns or sheds can store tools, hobby equipment or vehicles, keeping your yard and home more organized. Timberline Backyard can provide three basic barn and shed models and personalize the design to meet your needs and space.

Grant believes in making quality products that last, delivering the best customer service and keeping his family-owned business operating for generations to come.

He says his personal and professional lives are intertwined when it comes to values.

“Our company is trying to bring back basic Biblical principles for everyday living,” he says. “Doing your best work and helping others used to be a popular business concept that seems to have almost disappeared because it’s not always easy to find hard workers and ones who always show up.”

Grant wants his values to translate into meaningful times at home for his customers.

“People used to spend time outdoors and kids played outside. All homes had porches and everyone would sit out on their porch and visit with neighbors. Now, everyone is indoors playing video games. We want people outdoors again,” he says.

“Just by investing in outdoor furniture for comfort and usefulness, people can vacation at home,” he adds.

Grant opened his first location at 1184 S. Washington St., Van Wert, Ohio three years ago. Just this year, he opened another showroom at 3801 W. Main St., Morristown, Ind. The main office is in Shelbyville, Ind.

For more information, call (260) 508-9850 or visit timberlinebackyard.com. ❚

Timberline Backyard specializes in transforming outdoor spaces.

Swing sets can range from simple designs to extravagant setups.

Adams Health Expands Specialty Services

By Lindsey Lukas, senior editor

Adams Health is making impressive strides in expanding its specialty medical services, a move that directly addresses the healthcare needs of its rural community while enhancing access to expert care close to home.

According to Dr. Scott Smith, CEO at Adams Health, one of the system’s top goals for 2024-2025 has been to significantly broaden its specialty offerings and reduce wait times for patients.

These goals are already being realized.

“Our focus has been on bringing in physicians across multiple highdemand specialties like urology, gastroenterology, pulmonology, neurology, women’s health, orthopedics, podiatry and sports medicine,” says Smith. “In addition to consultations, we will also be able to offer many new surgical procedures that will be exceptional for a rural hospital to offer, including several robotic procedures.”

Each specialist is committed not only to clinical excellence, but also to patient-centered care. For example, Kinne focuses on long-term functional recovery through minimally invasive treatments and regenerative medicine.

Among the standout additions to the Adams Health team are Dr. Nik Kiehl, the hospital’s first in-house urologist, and Dr. Kaely Bade, a gastroenterologist offering care to adult patients with gastrointestinal conditions.

Also joining the medical staff is Dr. Fabian Lemp, boardcertified in internal, pulmonary and critical care medicine, who brings expertise in complex respiratory conditions. Dr. Dominique Sanchez provides excellent maternity and newborn care, while Dr. Alberto Delgado and Dr. Michael Ryskin enhance the women’s health team with extensive OB/GYN experience.

Hospital veterans Dr. David Coats and Dr. Robert Kinne continue to bring their valuable orthopedic and sports medicine experience to the community along with the new addition of Dr. Joy Kannookaden, who specializes in podiatry, podiatric surgery and sports medicine.

This expansion of specialty services is more than just a response to market trends, Smith adds. It is a direct answer to the needs of the Adams County community.

“In the past, many of our residents had to travel more than 25 miles for specialty care,” he says. “Now, they can get that same high-quality care right here, often within a few days instead of waiting months for an appointment elsewhere.”

Patients can expect not only quicker access to care, but also compassionate treatment and strong provider relationships. Scheduling has been streamlined through a dedicated line, (833) 724-DOCS (3627), ensuring that accessing these new services is as simple and convenient as possible.

This expansion aligns perfectly with Adams Health’s longterm mission to increase access to care and improve health outcomes by delivering high-quality specialty services in a timely manner. By doing so, the health system is reinforcing its role as a trusted provider in the community and transforming the landscape of rural healthcare in Indiana.

“With an expanding team of dedicated specialists and a clear commitment to timely, compassionate care, Adams Health is setting a new standard for rural medicine, making expert care not just a promise, but a reality,” Smith says. ❚

Adams Health is expanding its specialty medical services, enhancing access to expert care that’s close to home.

Dr. Scott Smith

Swiss Days Celebrates Community

By Lindsey Lukas, senior editor

Every summer, the quaint town of Berne, Ind., transforms into a vibrant hub of Swiss culture during its annual Swiss Days festival. Held during the last full weekend of July, this cherished event honors the town’s rich Swiss roots, drawing thousands of visitors eager to experience a blend of tradition, community spirit and festive fun.

Berne’s origins trace back to 1852 when Mennonite settlers from the Jura region of Switzerland established the community. Their influence remains evident in the town’s architecture, customs and annual celebrations. Swiss Days began more than 50 years ago as a modest sidewalk sale and has since blossomed into a comprehensive festival that showcases the town’s deep-seated heritage.

This year, Swiss Days happens July 24-26 and offers a diverse array of activities catering to all age groups. The festival kicks off with an opening ceremony, followed by events such as the Little Miss Swiss Days pageant and live performances featuring polka music and traditional Swiss dances.

For the athletically inclined, the First Bank of Berne Swiss Days Race presents a 5K run for participants ages 12 and up and a 1-mile race for children ages 11 and under. Cycling enthusiasts can partake in the “Tour De Swiss,” a scenic 26-mile bike ride through the picturesque countryside of southern Adams County.

Children can enjoy the “Kids Fun Zone,” which features games, bounce houses, inflatable obstacle courses and pony rides. Unique competitions add a distinctive flavor to the festivities, such as the Steintoss, a traditional Swiss contest where participants throw heavy stones, and the bratwurst eating contest.

The Swiss Heritage Village offers visitors a glimpse into 19th-century Swiss-American life with its collection of historical buildings and live demonstrations. The Quilt Show at the First Mennonite Church displays intricate quilts, reflecting the town’s rich textile traditions.

Culinary enthusiasts can savor authentic Swiss dishes, including bratwurst, apple dumplings and the regional favorite “Swiss Schuetzie Salad” at local establishments like The Palmer House Restaurant.

Beyond the events and attractions, Swiss Days serves as a homecoming for many, fostering a sense of community and continuity. Residents and visitors alike gather to celebrate shared traditions, making the festival a time of reunion and reflection.

As Berne continues to honor its Swiss heritage through Swiss Days, the festival stands as a testament to the town’s enduring commitment to preserving its cultural legacy while embracing the present.

For more information on Swiss Days and upcoming events, visit bernein.com. ❚

Cycling enthusiasts can enjoy the “Tour De Swiss” scenic bike ride during Berne’s annual Swiss Days festival.

Festivalgoers can savor delicious treats, including authentic Swiss dishes, during Swiss Days.

I Love Saturdays at Club Room at Te Clyde

Enjoy the best in pop, soul, R&B and funk every Saturday from 8-11 p.m. at the Club Room at the Clyde, 1806 Blufon Road, Fort Wayne. Visit clydeclubroom.com/live to see the complete lineup of performers.

Color in Motion: Butterfy Exhibit

Tru June 22. Live butterfies bring an array of natural beauty and wonder. An epic display of multicolored fowers and foliage elevates this annual spring exhibit. Foellinger-Freimann Botanical Conservatory, 1100 S. Calhoun St., Fort Wayne, botanicalconservatory.org.

Space Telescopes: New Views of the Universe

Tru Sept. 7. Tis temporary exhibition showcases iconic Hubble images and data of planets, galaxies, regions around black holes. Science Central, 1950 N. Clinton St., Fort Wayne, sciencecentral.org.

Fort Wayne TinCaps

Tru Sept. 7. Lots of exciting baseball action along with special events and spectacles including freworks on select nights, discounted food nights and more. Find the whole schedule at milb.com/fort-wayne. Parkview Field, 1301 Ewing St., Fort Wayne.

Fort Wayne’s Farmers’ Market

Tru Oct. 4, Saturdays 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Tis farmers’ market in downtown Fort Wayne brings the farm to your neighborhood and also ofers the freshest vegetables, fowers and plants in season. 1620 Broadway, Fort Wayne, fwaynesfarmersmarket.com.

Rock & Roar

Tru Oct. 24 on select Tursdays, 6:30-9:30 p.m. Tis summer music series features talented

Entertainment & Events

bands from Fort Wayne’s local music scene. Try delicious specialty menu items and enjoy an evening of live music and fun at the Fort Wayne Zoo. Ages 21+. Fort Wayne Zoo, 3411 Sherman Blvd., Fort Wayne, fwzoo.com.

Allen County Fair

June 17-22. In addition to 4-H festivities, the fair ofers a full food court, carnival rides and a lengthy list of family-fun events. Allen County Fairgrounds, 2726 Carroll Road, Fort Wayne, allencountyfairgroundsin.com.

Chicago

June 21, doors 7 p.m., show 8 p.m. Hailed as one of the “most important bands in music since the dawn of the rock and roll era,” the legendary

rock and roll band with horns, Chicago, came in as the highest charting American band in Billboard Magazine’s “Top 125 Artists of All Time.” Embassy Teatre, 125 W. Jeferson Blvd., Fort Wayne, fwembassytheatre.org.

Covington Art Fair

June 21-22, Sat. 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Sun. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Featuring a unique variety of local, regional and national artists, the event augments the artists’ displays with fne dining and specialty shops. Jazz music accompanies the high-quality art. Covington Plaza, 6382 W. Jeferson Blvd., Fort Wayne, facebook.com/CovingtonArtFair.

Summer Fest 2025

June 26-28. Summer Fest is New Haven’s citywide Independence Day Celebration. Tis event ofers live music for each day, food trucks and drinks, a festival market, fair games for all ages and so much more. Te last day starts with a parade and singing of the National Anthem. Schnelker Park, 956 Park Ave., New Haven, visitfortwayne.com.

Middle Waves Music Festival

June 28, 3 p.m. Tis year, Phantogram brings the energy to Fort Wayne as the festival headliner. Mannequin Pussy, Ratboys and Post Sex Nachos round out the rest of the lineup while local band Loveseat! kicks of the festival. Presented by Embassy Teatre at Headwaters Park, 333 S. Clinton St., Fort Wayne, middlewaves.com.

Tommy James & Te Shondells

June 28, 7:30 p.m. Join Tommy James and Te Shondells on a thrilling ride through Tommy’s career. Foellinger Teatre, 3411 Sherman Blvd., Fort Wayne, foellingertheatre.org. ❚

The Allen County Fair features 4-H activities, a full food court, carnival rides and more from June 17 to 22 at The Allen County Fairgrounds in Fort Wayne.

The Embassy Theatre presents an array of exciting entertainment in the near future, from rock band Chicago on June 21 to the Middle Waves Music Festival on June 28. (Visit Fort Wayne photos)