The Fort Wayne Police Department is looking forward to welcoming residents and visitors downtown for the Fourth of July fireworks celebration.
Fort Wayne Police Department news release:
Fort Wayne Police Department Reminds the Community: Downtown Fireworks Are a Family-Friendly Event
Fort Wayne, Indiana (July 2, 2026) – The Fort Wayne Police Department is looking forward to welcoming residents and visitors downtown for the Fourth of July fireworks celebration. This annual event brings thousands of people together, and FWPD will be working with public safety partners to help provide a safe, family-friendly environment for everyone attending.
Fifty-three additional officers will be on duty in the downtown area, including City parks, throughout the fireworks event.
To help keep the event safe, consumer fireworks are prohibited in City parks and throughout the downtown event area. Anyone attending the fireworks should leave personal fireworks at home.
FWPD is also reminding the public that there will be zero tolerance for anyone observed throwing fireworks at another person, into a crowd, at vehicles, at officers, or in any other reckless manner. Individuals who engage in this behavior will be arrested.
Depending on the circumstances, throwing fireworks at people could result in misdemeanor charges, felony charges, or even federal charges. What may seem like a prank can cause serious injuries and serious legal consequences.
“We want everyone to enjoy the Fourth of July celebration safely,” said Chief Smith. “The downtown fireworks are meant to be a family-friendly event. Bringing consumer fireworks into crowded areas, City parks, or the downtown event area puts others at risk and will not be tolerated.”
FWPD encourages anyone attending the event to be patient, follow posted restrictions, listen to directions from officers and event staff, and immediately report unsafe or suspicious behavior.
Celebrate responsibly. Leave consumer fireworks at home. Help us keep downtown safe for everyone.
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