Powers Hamburgers is an iconic part of Fort Wayne. When people think of Fort Wayne, they hear the sound of the crowd at a Komets game, listen to the quiet beauty of the riverfront, and the unmistakable smell inside the Powers Hamburgers. It's the aroma of sizzling beef and sweet, grilled onions, a scent woven into the city’s fabric for 85 years. Now, this hometown institution have just made history.
That little diner on South Harrison Street, Powers Burgers, has always been more than a place to eat. It's a landmark of memories where grandfathers took their grandkids for their first sliders, where friends piled in after a football game, and where Fort Wayne residents knew they could get an authentic taste of hamburgers.
Now, what Fort Wayne locals have always known is official. The humble diner has earned the city the title of “Slider Capital of the World.” The honor, formalized by Indiana Governor Mike Braun, recognizes Powers Hamburgers for its “longstanding contributions to Indiana’s heritage,” thus earning the recognition. Fort Wayne Mayor Sharon L. Tucker, meanwhile, has declared Wednesday, July 16, 2025, as Powers Hamburgers Slider Capital of the World Day, encouraging residents to celebrate the iconic restaurant.
This feat comes as Powers extends its gratitude to the community that never gave up on it. After a year that tested its survival, the diner launches Powers Fest, a week-long celebration from July 10–16. To hype up the guests during the festival, the grand finale is a world record attempt to confirm Fort Wayne’s standing as the nation’s slider stronghold.
These are the can’t-miss moments of Powers Fest.
Thursday, July 10 – Late-Night Kickoff
Powers keeps the grill hot until midnight, giving fans a rare chance to grab their favorite sliders under the stars.
Saturday, July 12 – Family Day
Families are encouraged to bring their kids to enjoy a variety of activities, such as face painting, balloon animals, and other surprises. Grown-ups can join in the fun, too.
Monday, July 14 – Classic Car Show
Car enthusiasts can enjoy a vintage vehicle display at the Powers parking lot.
Tuesday, July 15 – The Slider-Eating Contest Returns
This local favorite challenges brave eaters to devour the most sliders in record time.
Wednesday, July 16 – “Slider Capital of the World Day”
As the main event, Powers and the city of Fort Wayne attempt to break the world record for most sliders sold in 24 hours.
“This is our moment,” said co-owner Panos Bourounis. “With the Governor and Mayor behind us, we’re not just a diner chasing a record. We are the Slider Capital of the World. Imagine telling your kids you were there. We truly believe we can do this together.”
As Powers Fest approaches, one thing is certain: this comeback isn’t just about burgers. It’s about preserving a legacy, honoring a city’s pride, and proving that true icons never fade.
To learn more or be part of the celebration that’s making history, visit https://powershamburgers.com.
About Powers Hamburgers
For more than 80 years, Powers Hamburgers has been the heartbeat of Fort Wayne, where the scent of grilled onions and the sizzle of sliders signal something special. With beef from Didier Meats and buns from Aunt Millie’s, every bite is rooted in local tradition. Now under the care of Salvatori’s Restaurant Group, Powers carries its legacy forward with pride, officially crowned the Slider Capital of the World.
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Media Contact
Powers Hamburgers
Address: 1402 S Harrison St, Fort Wayne, IN
Phone: (260) 422-6620
Website: https://powershamburgers.com
newsroom: news.38digitalmarket.com
Source: 38 Digital Market News
Release ID: 1645573
