Don Fest
Purdue Fort Wayne's Community Celebration
DON FEST
Saturday, September 26
4–9 p.m.
Purdue Fort Wayne Campus
Join Purdue Fort Wayne for a day of adventure, entertainment, athletics, and community as the campus comes alive with activities for all ages.
Students, faculty, staff, alumni, donors, prospective students, families, and community members are invited to gather along the riverfront and throughout campus to celebrate the spirit of Purdue Fort Wayne. Whether you come for the games, the music, the outdoor experiences, or simply to spend time with family and friends, you'll find something to enjoy.
Get your head in the game.
Show your Mastodon pride and cheer on our student-athletes throughout the afternoon.
Women's volleyball begins at 2 p.m., followed by club football at 4 p.m. Admission to the volleyball match is free, making it easy to spend the entire day on campus.
Riverfront adventure.
Experience one of Purdue Fort Wayne's greatest natural assets, the St. Joseph River.
Explore the river by kayak, enjoy outdoor recreation activities, bike the Rivergreenway, and discover hands-on opportunities to learn about the environment, conservation, and the region's natural resources.
From interactive exhibits to family-friendly exploration, the riverfront will serve as the heart of the day's activities.
Family fun.
Bring the whole family for an afternoon filled with games, activities, and memorable experiences.
Enjoy inflatables, yard games, face painting, caricatures, tie-dye activities, chalk art, and other hands-on experiences designed for guests of all ages. Community organizations and local partners will also be on hand to showcase the people and programs that make Fort Wayne a vibrant place to live, learn, and grow.
Live entertainment.
Enjoy live music throughout the afternoon and evening while taking in the sights and sounds of the celebration.
The day's entertainment will feature performances from local musicians, appearances by Don the Mastodon and special mascot guests, and opportunities to connect with the Purdue Fort Wayne community in a festive atmosphere.
As the celebration concludes, guests will gather for a spectacular finale that lights up the evening sky.
A celebration for everyone.
This event is designed to bring together the entire Purdue Fort Wayne community and our neighbors across northeast Indiana.
Whether you are a current student, an alum returning to campus, a prospective Mastodon, a supporter of our athletic programs, or a community member seeking a fun day with family and friends, we invite you to join us for one of Purdue Fort Wayne's premier celebrations.