Downtown Fort Wayne, in partnership with the City of Fort Wayne, announced today the expansion of the Downtown Fort Wayne Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area (DORA), effective Thursday, January 15, 2026.
Downtown Fort Wayne news release:
Downtown Fort Wayne Launches Expanded DORA District
Fort Wayne, Indiana (January 15, 2026) – Downtown Fort Wayne, in partnership with the City of Fort Wayne, announced today the expansion of the Downtown Fort Wayne Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area (DORA), effective Thursday, January 15, 2026. This updated district creates a unified footprint that allows residents and visitors to responsibly enjoy Downtown across a broader area.
The expanded Downtown Fort Wayne DORA formally rescinds the previously approved Electric Works DORA and incorporates that area into the updated boundaries. This consolidation reflects how people already move through Downtown and establishes a single, clearly defined district.
“The Downtown Fort Wayne DORA was designed to evolve as Downtown continues to grow,” said Preston Wallace, director of marketing and lead administrator of the Downtown Fort Wayne DORA. “This expansion strengthens the area by supporting local businesses and making it easier for people to enjoy events, public spaces, and destinations throughout the district.”
A DORA allows individuals 21 and older to purchase alcoholic beverages from authorized vendors and retail permittees and carry and consume them within approved boundaries. The Downtown Fort Wayne DORA supports Downtown’s restaurants, bars, parks, trails, and event spaces while encouraging responsible use and clear expectations.
Updated signage and maps have been installed throughout Downtown, and participating businesses will display official Downtown Fort Wayne DORA materials.
“We’ve seen great success with our DORA, and we anticipate this expansion will continue to benefit local businesses while creating vibrant public spaces that encourage people to gather and enjoy our community,” said Andrea Robinson, PhD, economic development administrator for the City of Fort Wayne.
Businesses within the new DORA boundaries that have not yet applied for, or were not part of, the initial district must seek approval for designated permittee licensing from the Indiana Alcohol and Tobacco Commission (ATC). To begin the application process, businesses should contact Andrea Robinson at Andrea.Robinson@CityofFortWayne.org.Key Downtown Fort Wayne DORA guidelines include:
- Alcoholic beverages must be in a designated Downtown Fort Wayne DORA cup provided by a participating establishment.
- DORA beverages may be consumed between 11 a.m. and 3 a.m., seven days a week, within approved boundaries.
- Participants are encouraged to review DORA rules posted on official signage and use designated recycling containers.
Since its launch, the Downtown Fort Wayne DORA has supported local businesses and enhanced the Downtown experience during everyday visits, special events, and festivals. The expanded district builds on that momentum and aligns with Downtown Fort Wayne’s mission to foster an active, inclusive, and economically strong Downtown.
For more information, including rules, participating locations, and an updated map, please visit DORAintheFort.com.
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