As we enter the season of giving, Downtown Wabash, Inc. wants to express our heartfelt gratitude for everything our local businesses bring to our downtown district. For November’s First Friday, we’re celebrating that appreciation with a fun and rewarding event!
Complete the ‘Give Thanks’ Stamping Map by visiting participating businesses, and you’ll be entered for a chance to win! Two lucky winners will receive $100 in Downtown Dollars, and two children will win $25 in Downtown Dollars, all redeemable at local stores.
In the spirit of the season, we’re encouraging businesses to give back by hosting a nonprofit, organizing a canned food drive, or collecting donations for a local charity of their choice. Be sure to check our social media channels to see which stores are partnering with nonprofits and how you can support their efforts!
The event will also feature numerous shopping & dining specials, things to do in downtown, event-related festivities and so much more!
Join us in celebrating community, gratitude, and generosity this November!
Wabash First Fridays in 2024 are presented by MetalX and Bowen Health. Additional support for Wabash First Fridays come from Event Partners: Indiana Plain Dealer, Pettit Printing, Wabash Furniture and Flooring, 95.9 KISS FM, Wabash Domino’s and Dynamic Designs by Dyson.
Wabash First Fridays are events made possible by Downtown Wabash, Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to a downtown district that is vibrant every day and night.
Downtown Wabash will transform into a wizardly oasis during October’s First Friday! Embark on a magical downtown adventure complete with wizard-themed festivities, spooky shopping & dining specials and more, all inspired by the enchanting world of Harry Potter! From Harry Potter music filling the streets to butterbeer specials, there’s sure to be “Mischief Managed” around every corner!
The free event will also feature the return of Food Truck Plaza for the last time in 2024, Miami Street community vendor booths and so much more!
Wabash First Fridays in 2024 are presented by MetalX and Bowen Health Clinic. Additional support for Wabash First Fridays come from Event Partners: Indiana Plain Dealer, Pettit Printing, Wabash Furniture and Flooring, 95.9 KISS FM, Wabash Domino’s and Dynamic Designs by Dyson.
Wabash First Fridays are events made possible by Downtown Wabash, Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to a downtown district that is vibrant every day and night.
Who let the dogs out?! We did! If you’re looking to add a special member to your family, this exciting First Friday is the event for you! The Wabash Animal Shelter will bring adoptable dogs & cats to the event for people to play with and begin the adoption process.
The free event will also feature pup-inspired shopping & dining specials, the return of Food Truck Plaza, Miami Street community vendor booths and so much more!
Wabash First Fridays in 2024 are presented by MetalX and Bowen Health Clinic. Additional support for Wabash First Fridays come from Event Partners: Indiana Plain Dealer, Pettit Printing, Wabash Furniture and Flooring, 95.9 KISS FM, Wabash Domino’s and Dynamic Designs by Dyson.
Wabash First Fridays are events made possible by Downtown Wabash, Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to a downtown district that is vibrant every day and night.
Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome to Miami Street… THE DOWNTOWN THROWDOWN, presented by the Apache Wrestling Club! This event, formerly known as Thrash in the Bash, is a fan-favorite community spectacle. Gather on Miami Street for a friendship format, folk-style wrestling tournament open to all age brackets. The event will also feature numerous shopping & dining specials, the return of Food Truck Plaza, Miami Street community vendor booths and so much more!
Wabash First Fridays in 2024 are presented by MetalX and Bowen Health Clinic. Additional support for Wabash First Fridays come from Event Partners: Indiana Plain Dealer, Pettit Printing, Wabash Furniture and Flooring, 95.9 KISS FM, Wabash Domino’s and Dynamic Designs by Dyson.
Wabash First Fridays are events made possible by Downtown Wabash, Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to a downtown district that is vibrant every day and night.
Downtown Wabash will feel like home with lively backyard vibes during July’s First Friday: BBQ in the Bash! With the smell of barbecue on the grill and cornhole bags flying, this First Friday will be one to remember! Bachelor Creek Church will host a cornhole tournament on Miami Street open to all ages. Participants will have the chance to win locally curated prizes while showing off finely-tuned cornhole skills. The event will also feature a concert by The Bulldogs on Market Street hosted by Wabash County Museum and Living Well Downtown, summertime/barbecue-inspired shopping & dining specials, the return of Food Truck Plaza, Miami Street community vendor booths and so much more!
Wabash First Fridays in 2024 are presented by MetalX and Bowen Health Clinic. Additional support for Wabash First Fridays come from Event Partners: Indiana Plain Dealer, Pettit Printing, Wabash Furniture and Flooring, 95.9 KISS FM, Wabash Domino’s and Dynamic Designs by Dyson.
Summertime is made for exploring the Wabash Cultural District, nestled in the heart of Downtown Wabash! The Wabash Cultural District was designated an Indiana Cultural District by the Indiana Arts Commission in 2021 and is one of only twelve in the state. The 2.5-mile district is brimming with cultural assets such as a world-class performing arts center, miles of community bike trails, numerous public art pieces, new housing developments and boutiques. Keep reading for the ultimate list of how to experience the beloved cultural district this summer!
If you’re in search of must-do activities to add to your summer bucket list, this is the list for you! Get ready to discover vibrant public art installations, enjoy outdoor recreation, get creative with hands-on art experiences, and maybe even go on a shopping spree to support local businesses. We can’t think of anything better than soaking up some sun while strolling amidst the Wabash Cultural District. Ready to check off all fifteen? Let’s dive in!
1. Check Out June’s First Friday
If you are looking for exciting Friday night plans and are interested in exploring the Wabash Cultural District, this is the event for you! June’s First Friday will celebrate the lively arts and culture within the Wabash Cultural District. The free community event promises a night of immersive art experiences, the return of Paint the Plow presented by the City of Wabash Street Department, a Coloring Contest for ages 18 & under, family-friendly fun, Food Truck Plaza, music performances and so much more.
Wabash First Fridays in 2024 are presented by MetalX and Bowen Health Clinic. Additional support for Wabash First Fridays comes Event Partners: Indiana Plain Dealer, Pettit Printing, 95.9 KISS FM and Wabash Dominos.
2. Embark on a Public Art Adventure
You can find vibrant murals, sculptures, public art installations and picture spots around every corner of the Wabash Cultural District. You have to check out these breath-taking public art pieces that showcase the talented work of local artists and the rich culture of Wabash.
3. Get Creative at Make it Your Own Art Studio
Celebrate arts and culture by leaning into your artistic side at Make it Your Own Art Studio! This charming art studio has been in business for over 20 years and offers studio time, workshops, classes, art camps, make and take canvas painting, glass mosaic, slab work, wheel throwing and more! Choose from a wide variety of classes including Guided Canvas Painting, Custom Boards, Pottery Lessons, Custom Creations and more. Plus if you are looking for a space to celebrate a birthday party or private event, booking with Make it Your Own Art Studio will ensure a very memorable experience for all.
4. Honor History at the Wabash County Museum
You will be blown away from the very moment you step into the Wabash County Museum! The whole family will love learning about our community’s historical and cultural impact through engaging exhibits and interactive displays. Not to mention the charming play areas and relaxing sensory-friendly space for children to enjoy. The museum offers individual museum tours, field trip options, rental spaces for parties, memberships and several community events.
5. Experience Honeywell Arts Academy at Eagles Theatre
Every summer, the best and brightest emerging musicians from around the globe come together in Downtown Wabash for weeks of collaboration and innovation. The Honeywell Arts Academy is a life-changing experience and often serves as a launching pad for a career in the music industry. Get your tickets today to witness first-hand their new musical perspectives as they perform for LIVE at Eagles Theatre. Want complimentary tickets? You got it! To claim your tickets, simply choose your seats to the performance(s) of your choice and use the discount code of LOCAL at check out to redeem your ticket(s).
6. Browse Local Art Galleries
The Wabash Cultural District is teeming with local art on display throughout Downtown Wabash. Celebrate the brilliant work of local artists by visiting several art galleries within the district, and maybe even purchase a new piece of artwork for your home while you’re there! The Clark Gallery, located inside the Honeywell Center’s Porter Lobby, hosts a variety of exhibits each year. From emerging art students to professional artists, the displays are different every month. Borders & Beyond Gallery has a wonderful gallery of local artwork for purchase and occasionally hosts featured exhibits. They also offer creative custom framing, unique greeting cards and more. And finally, Filament Tattoo Co. is home to a diverse collection of artwork, including a majority of pieces made by their talented tattoo artists! The space has the most vibrant atmosphere with something to see around every corner. While you’re there, consider getting that tattoo you’ve been dreaming of!
7. Construct Your Favorite Fragrance at JoJo’s Olfactory & Co.
Make your space feel like home by curating the perfect fragrance at JoJo’s Olfactory & Co. When you visit this quaint fragrance bar, you will be greeted by their talented and friendly team ready to help you customize your very own candles, room sprays, sugar scrubs, diffusers and more. With over 90 individual scents, the opportunities are endless. The whole process is quick and simple, but more than anything, incredibly fun! Need some scent inspo to get started? These are some of our team’s favorite summer scents; agave, watermelon, peach, mango, vanilla, patchouli and pomegranate!
8. Enjoy Community Bike Trails
Whether biking, running or walking, the community bike trails throughout the Wabash Cultural District are one of the most serene places to be! The Wabash Riverfront trailhead is truly an iconic downtown spot. While strolling along the scenic Wabash River, you can stop by Alley Cat Outfitters for all things outdoor recreation, or swing by Paradise Spring Park to learn more about the historic landmark. Following a relaxing bike ride, top off your trip with a refreshing ice cream cone at White Rock Recreation, and book a paddling adventure along the Wabash River for your next visit.
9. Conquer Your Reading Goals
If you’re a self-proclaimed bookworm, then you will love perusing the endless selection of reading materials at Wabash Carnegie Public Library and Reading Room Books. Find your next addiction within a wide variety of fiction novels, fan-favorite series, poetry, children’s books, cookbooks, history literature, mystery and so much more. Sign up for your library card for countless repeat visits, or add to your collection by taking home a book (or twelve) from Reading Room Books.
10. Book a Session with Kaleigh M. Photography and Nicole A. Howard Photography
All smiles for these incredibly talented Downtown Wabash photographers! When you book with Kaleigh M. Photography and Nicole A. Howard Photography, you’ll get to experience the Wabash Cultural District’s lively arts and culture in a unique way. These passionate artists will make you feel confident and comfortable as they strive to capture your memories and bring your vision to life. They are outstanding to work with and will deliver quality photos you’ll cherish forever!
11. Embrace Lively Arts & Culture at Honeywell Arts & Entertainment
Discover Honeywell Arts & Entertainment, a world-class performing arts center that could be considered the heartbeat of the Wabash Cultural District. Throughout the years, Honeywell Arts & Entertainment has cultivated arts-based opportunities such as live concerts, visual art programs, family festivals, recreational events and so much more. Returning this summer, the Honeywell Summer Plaza Music Series offers FREE outdoor concerts on Thursdays from 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. on the Carpenter Plaza at the Honeywell Center. The Plaza will be full of activity including a live band, a craft project for kids, local food trucks, and a beer garden. Don’t forget a lawn chair or blanket! Additional programming, cultural experiences and community events are endless, so you have to check out what’s coming up at Honeywell Arts & Entertainment.
12. Find Handmade, Homemade and Homegrown Goods at the Downtown Wabash Farmers Market
Start your Saturday mornings in the heart of the Wabash Cultural District all summer long! With a vision of creating quality of place and livability for our community, the Downtown Wabash Farmers Market specifically caters to local and regional vendors who exclusively sell all things handmade, homemade and homegrown. Along with fresh food, produce and artisan goods, you can expect to see live music and kids activities. Our family-friendly environment includes every member of the family, even your furry friends!
13. Lace up for a Historical Walking Tour
Grab some headphones and your favorite pair of walking shoes for a free Historical Walking Tour! Learn about Wabash’s rich history as you stroll through the iconic streets of Downtown Wabash. It will feel like you stepped into a time machine when you participate in this interactive and immersive experience brought to you by The Hometown History podcast! The tour lasts 35 minutes and spans a little over half of a mile. There are no hills involved, and the route is wheelchair and stroller accessible.
14. Grab a Wabash Cultural District Map
Fresh off the printer, the Wabash Cultural District Map is your go-to guide for all things arts & culture, shopping, food & drink, outdoor recreation and public art throughout downtown. With visitors and community members in mind, the map was curated as a resource for exploring the Wabash Cultural District while taking advantage of all that Downtown Wabash has to offer. Stop by Downtown Wabash, Inc.’s office at 189 S. Miami St. to snag your free map!
15. Support Local Businesses
Last but certainly not least, Downtown Wabash is overflowing with local boutiques, restaurants, creative spaces and businesses just waiting for you to explore! These dynamic businesses add to the vibrancy of the Wabash Cultural District and offer unique products and services for the whole family to enjoy. Plus, when you support local, you support Wabash.
The Wabash Cultural District is waiting for YOU! This list is only a glimpse into the endless arts and culture throughout our beloved downtown district, check out more information on The Wabash Cultural District and browse Downtown Wabash Businesses to plan your visit today!
The Wabash Cultural District is celebrating its 3-year anniversary since the 2021 designation from the Indiana Arts Commission! Join us for a night of immersive art experiences, the return of Paint the Plow presented by the City of Wabash Street Department, community-focused fun, Food Truck Plaza and plenty to do around every corner on June’s First Friday in Downtown Wabash, Indiana.
The Wabash Cultural District is a 2.5 mile perimeter of walkable terrain. The boundaries are Hill Street along the influential railway tracks on the north, Carroll Street on the west, Paradise Spring Park on the east and the Wabash River on the south. A unique characteristic is our hilly topography. Standing at the District’s entrance, you can see the entire District unfolding before your eyes.
Wabash First Fridays in 2024 are presented by MetalX and Bowen Health Clinic. Additional support for Wabash First Fridays comes Event Partners: Indiana Plain Dealer, Pettit Printing, 95.9 KISS FM and Wabash Dominos.
The Trick-or-Treat Extravaganza is Happening on October 28 from 5-7 p.m.
Have you ever embarked on a Halloween quest where candy rained down from the sky, courtesy of a colossal dump truck? Probably not, unless you’ve experienced the spellbinding Downtown Wabash Trick-or-Treat Extravaganza. This bewitching event turns Downtown Wabash into a candy wonderland. It’s a tradition that leaves a sweet impression on its hometown, year after year.
Downtown Wabash Inc. collaborates closely with Wabash Trucking to create an unparalleled family experience in our beloved community. An avalanche of candy, literally A TON of it, will be cascading to the street as trick-or-treaters dressed up in their costumes, eagerly await to collect their sugary treasures. Will you snag one of the FIVE Gebhart Golden Tickets? That’s right, there are five chances at winning some “spooktacular” prizes.
Now, let’s get acquainted with the driving force behind this enchanting event: Wabash Trucking. They are a licensed and bonded full truckload logistics company based right here in Wabash, Indiana. Their mission is simple: to provide safe and reliable logistics services while upholding the highest standards of integrity and professionalism to protect customers, vendors and employees.
But how does a logistics company fit into the fabric of Downtown Wabash, let alone this candy-filled extravaganza? The answer is as straightforward as their “Go big or go home” motto. Wabash Trucking sought to give back to the community in a monumental way—think a whopping 2,000 pounds of candy cascading from the heavens, all while showcasing their innovative “Feed Me” roll-off dumpster design. Unbeknownst to them, no neighboring community had ever conjured such an elaborate spectacle, delivering a fresh, exhilarating experience to the masses. Now, in their fifth year, they’re poised to carry on the tradition of the 2,000-pound candy dump, much to the delight of Wabash residents.
How does this fit into the grand mission of Downtown Wabash Inc.? It’s a perfect match. Our vision for Downtown Wabash is a thriving hub of activity, day and night, and our mission is to be the driving force behind community and economic revitalization at the heart of Downtown Wabash. When an event like this brings nearly 4,000 people bustling into our vibrant downtown, we’re casting a radiant spotlight on local businesses and attractions, all conveniently within a strollable 2.5-mile radius. The majority of these event-goers are children, making it the perfect opportunity to introduce them to the enchanting wonders of their hometown through the grandest candy spectacle imaginable.
A colossal effort by an army of devoted community leaders makes this sweet spectacle possible. It’s Downtown Wabash, Inc. partnering with Wabash Trucking for the extravagant candy dump, Bachelor Creek hosting an epic costume contest across all age groups, Downtown Wabash businesses generously distributing candy outside their storefronts, local food trucks, talented photographers capturing the magic, dedicated community vendors, and our local first responders—all these incredible individuals come together to make this event free for the public. Their contributions, in the form of candy, volunteer hours, and resources, are priceless, and we extend our heartfelt gratitude to each of them.
The Downtown Wabash Trick-or-Treat Extravaganza is a beloved annual tradition taking place on October 28, from 5-7 p.m. (Rain Date: Sunday, October 29, from 2-4 p.m.) Gather your candy from the Wabash Trucking candy dump until supplies run out, then explore more businesses for additional sweet treats. Free parking and shuttle rides on Trolley No. 85 are available at Wabash County YMCA. Find more details on the Facebook event page.
The Downtown Wabash Trick-or-Treat Extravaganza is presented by Downtown Wabash, Inc. and Wabash Trucking. Downtown Wabash, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to a downtown district that is vibrant every day and night. Additional sponsorship comes from Top Level Sponsor Bachelor Creek.
Prepare for a journey into the heart of Downtown Wabash, Indiana, where Schlemmer Brothers Metalworks (SBMW) stands as a symbol of excellence in the metal fabrication industry, blending age-old traditions with cutting-edge innovation. With deep roots in the community dating back to 1903, this family-owned business stands as a testament to the enduring tradition of craftsmanship. For generations, SBMW has diligently carried forward the torch of their family’s heritage, upholding the time-honored values of quality, precision and unwavering dedication to their craft.
In 1998, a significant chapter in the story of the Schlemmer Brothers Metalworks unfolded when Kent & Julie Henderson took the reins of this multigenerational company. Kent aims to preserve and enhance the craftsmanship of metal fabrication that has been passed down through generations. Continuing the SBMW tradition, Kent and Julie’s son Cody Henderson has planted roots in the company as a leader in operations and management. Together, Kent and Cody stand as torch bearers of SBMW’s cherished legacy that continues to shine bright in the world of metal fabrication.
One of the many projects of Schlemmer Brothers Metalworks in Downtown Wabash, the kinetic Donor Wall at Friendship Hill Inclusive Playground.
Elevating Excellence Through Innovation
What sets SBMW apart in the world of metal fabrication is their unwavering commitment to innovation. They have demonstrated an exceptional ability to adapt to the ever-evolving demands of the industry, embracing new machines and staying at the forefront of market trends.
SBMW’s dedication to innovation and staying current with state-of-the-art technologies not only allows them to meet the diverse needs of their clients but also to surpass industry standards. They employ the latest advancements in laser cutting, press-brake technology, welding techniques and CNC machinery, showcasing their unwavering commitment to precision, efficiency and product quality.
The custom bike racks throughout Downtown Wabash, Indiana provide unique placemaking.
Shaping Downtown Wabash
Schlemmer Brothers Metalworks has etched a remarkable legacy into the canvas of Downtown Wabash through their custom metal projects. These iconic creations include distinctive bike racks, stunning pergolas, robust gabions, the donor wall at Friendship Hill Inclusive Playground and Hero Memorial near White Rock Recreation. These projects blend utility with aesthetics, adding character and functionality to downtown.
The bike racks, not only practical but also artistic, decorate the streets of Downtown Wabash in the heart of the Wabash Cultural District. The pergola located at Veterans Plaza injects character into our public spaces while inviting the community to gather and make meaningful connections. The gabions, with their sturdy construction, offer both functionality and beauty as placemaking for a public parking lot. At Friendship Hill Inclusive Playground, a kinetic donor wall moves with the wind showcasing the community’s support while the Hero Memorial near White Rock Recreation serves as a beautiful tribute to our local heroes. SBMW’s custom projects have become integral parts of the Downtown Wabash landscape, reflecting their craftsmanship and dedication to their community.
The pergola located at Veterans Plaza serves as a gathering space.The Hero Memorial installation honoring local heroes could not have been made possible without Schlemmer Brothers Metalworks.Photo provided by Visit Wabash County
A Trusted Partner for the Future
As SBMW continues to evolve, their commitment to excellence in metal fabrication persists. Their forward-thinking approach, combined with their innovative machinery and dedication to craftsmanship, ensures their continued success.
SBMW’s position as a trusted and agile manufacturer in the competitive world of custom metal fabrication is solidified by their unwavering commitment to delivering the highest quality products. Their legacy of craftsmanship, dedication to innovation, contributions to their community, and commitment to sustainability make them a valuable partner for Wabash, now and into the future.
To learn more about Schlemmer Brothers Metalworks and their exceptional metal fabrication services, visit their website.
A special thank you to Schlemmer Brothers Metalworks for their longstanding support in helping fulfill the mission of Downtown Wabash, Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to a vibrant downtown district every day and night.
This November, we’re bringing back AN ORIGINAL! Join us for the Downtown Gallery Walk, a throwback to the Charley Creek ArtsFest Gallery Walk in Downtown Wabash, Indiana!
Take a passport around to every downtown gallery and art space for an arts-infused evening with nostalgic charm. Participating locations include the Honeywell Center Clark Gallery, Make It Your Own Art Studio, Borders & Beyond Gallery, 4 Partners in Crime, Wabash County Museum and Nicole A. Howard Photography.
Wabash First Fridays in 2023 are presented by MetalX. Additional support for Wabash First Fridays come from Top Level Sponsors: Pettit Printing and Crossroads Bank; and Mid Level Sponsor: 95.9 KISS FM. November’s First Friday is generously sponsored by Borders & Beyond Gallery.
Wabash First Fridays are events made possible by Downtown Wabash, Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to a downtown district that is vibrant every day and night.
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