Fort Wayne, IN – The National Fireworks Association (NFA) is bringing its 2026 Fall Expo back to northeast Indiana next week, drawing over 1,000 attendees from across the United States and abroad. The five‑day event runs Sept. 14‑18 at the Grand Wayne Convention Center, the same venue that hosted the expo in 2023.
Industry showcase and safety focus
More than 100 vendors will line the convention floor, presenting the latest pyrotechnic products, launch systems, safety equipment, and services aimed at fireworks retailers and other professionals in the trade. Organizers emphasize that safety education will be a central theme, with seminars and demonstrations designed to help participants meet federal and state regulations while protecting the public.
Nightly fireworks demonstrations in Auburn
Each evening from Monday through Friday, the expo will transport attendees to Kruse Plaza in Auburn, DeKalb County, for a series of public fireworks displays. Organizers plan 10‑15 separate shows each night, culminating in a public‑open demonstration on Friday, Sept. 18, at 8 p.m. Admission is $10 per car, cash preferred. Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets for seating on the grass field adjacent to the plaza. Note that no public restrooms will be available on site.
Economic boost for the region
The return of the NFA Expo is expected to generate a noticeable economic impact for Fort Wayne and surrounding communities. Visitors will stay in local hotels, dine at area restaurants, and shop at nearby retailers, providing a welcome infusion of tourism dollars during the early fall season. Representatives from China and other international markets are also slated to attend, highlighting the expo’s role as a global gathering for the pyrotechnic industry.
About the National Fireworks Association
The NFA represents fireworks manufacturers, importers, and sellers, advocating for the industry before federal lawmakers and regulators. By hosting the expo, the association seeks to foster networking, education, and business development opportunities for its members while promoting responsible fireworks use.
Practical information for attendees
Transportation between Fort Wayne and the Auburn demonstration site will be provided by shuttle buses operating on a set schedule. Parking for the Friday night public show is available in a grass field on the interstate side of the Kruse Plaza building. Organizers recommend arriving early to secure a spot, as space is limited.
For more details on vendor listings, safety seminars, and shuttle times, visit the National Fireworks Association’s official website or contact the expo’s organizing committee.
Original reporting: WOWO News/Talk (Fort Wayne) — read the source article.
