National Fireworks Association brings nightly demonstrations and 1,000 attendees to northeast Indiana

Friday, September 11, 2026 at 7:00 PM

By Kathy Bottorff

The National Fireworks Association's (NFA) 2026 Fall Expo is returning to the Grand Wayne Convention Center in Fort Wayne, after last being hosted here in 2023.

The event brings more than 1,000 national and international attendees to Fort Wayne from September 14 - 18, including many represented from China.

More than 100 vendors will exhibit at the Grand Wayne Convention Center over the five-day period, with fireworks shop owners in attendance from around the world. The purpose of the show is to educate those in the industry, with safety education as a key focus.

Shoot demonstrations for attendees will be held at Kruse Plaza in Auburn with 10-15 demonstrations each night, Monday through Friday. Attendees will be transported north to Kruse Plaza in DeKalb County for the nightly Firework Demos. Thanks to Kruse Plaza and the DeKalb County Visitors Bureau for their teamwork on this event!

The public is invited to enjoy the Friday night demonstration at Kruse Plaza starting at 8:00 PM with $10 admission (cash preferred) per car. Parking will be in the grass field, and everyone attending should plan to bring their own lawn chairs/blankets to watch from the parking lot on the interstate side of the building. No public restrooms.

The show also represents the interests of firework manufacturers, importers, and sellers on a national level before Federal lawmakers and regulators and serves as the voice for millions in the pyrotechnic industry.

Allyson Cowgill, Operations Manager and Expo Coordinator for NFA, says, "The National Fireworks Association is excited to return to Fort Wayne for our annual convention! Working with the entire crew at Visit Fort Wayne has been nothing but terrific! They have so much to offer; their knowledge of the city can’t be beat, and any idea I had that I needed a contact for, they had it. From restaurant recommendations to activities for the whole family, Visit Fort Wayne has all of the resources to make your trip in the 260 unforgettable! We can’t wait to come and experience the hospitality and fun that is in Fort Wayne."