Galentine's Shop Around | February 5th, 2026
Feb
5
4:00 PM16:00

Galentine's Shop Around | February 5th, 2026

 
 
 

Galentine’s Shop Around

Thursday, February 5, 2026

4:00-7:00 PM

Downtown Valparaiso

Celebrate the season of love in downtown Valpo!

Grab your Galentines and check out these participating stores & restaurants for special Galentine’s Shop Around promotions, Valentine’s Day themed treats & goodies, fun photo ops, and more!

(check back after 1/28 for a full list of special offers & promotions at each business)


Blockhead Beerworks

  • Cocktail & N/A mocktail special

Bun’s Soapbox

  • Free rose lip balm with purchase

Catherine’s Bridal Boutique

Designer Desserts

  • Buy 2 get 1 free - any cupcake or cookie in store from 4-7 pm

E & A Jewelers

  • Store-wide discounts & treats

Edie Boutique

  • Various great Galentine's specials

ELLA JAYMS

  • Permanent Jewelry with NJ Jewels

  • Craft bar & photo op

  • Bring in arts & crafts donations for Hilltop & receive $10 off your $50+ purchase

Figs and Fables

  • Champagne & Caviar special - $13 for a glass of real French Champagne & a bump of caviar

Fluid Coffee Roasters

Hungry Hound Boutique & Grooming

  • 14% off boutique items

  • Complimentary refreshments

Indie Indie Bang! Bang!

  • Complimentary refreshments, a Valentine's treat & a chance giveaway

  • "Love is in the air! Shop, smile and leave with a galentine giveaway. We are serving up our Love Potion #9 and some new tasty treats."

Journeyman

  • Visit the Spirit Shop for a free sample and gift with purchase.

Lifestyles

Market 102

  • Valentine's Décor, store-wide sales and a sweet treat

Marvel Us Furniture

  • 14% off all accessories

  • Complimentary treat bags (limit 1 per guest, while supplies last)

Nextdoor at Birdie’s

Old World Market

  • 14% off chocolate & retail items

  • Complimentary mocktails & samples

Peddlers Pizza Pub

  • Free order of Stix with purchase of large pizza

Pickles

  • 14% off all purchases

  • Free gift with purchase over $50

  • Charm Bar pop-up

  • Treats to enjoy

Pieces of Jayde

  • Protective labradorite heart with purchase of $10+

  • Get your Valentine portrait taken with The Sphynx Brothers kitties!

  • Complimentary snacks & drinks

Pretty Little Parties

  • Polaroid photo op

  • Free photo frame decoration with a purchase

  • Store-wide sales

Rocket Fizz

  • 10% off purchases of $20+ (gift cards excluded)

  • Free children's valentine craft with purchase of $10+ (children must be present; $5 per each additional craft)

Silcotts Shoes

  • 10% off entire store (excluding Ugg, Birkenstock & work boots)

  • Complimentary drinks & desserts

Six Cypress

The Press

  • 15% off all romance books

The Spice & Tea Exchange

  • Free cozy winter candle with $50 purchase (while supplies last)

  • Complimentary tea samples & sweet treats

 
 
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A Neighborly Event | Featuring Buddy Mondlock
Feb
7
4:00 PM16:00

A Neighborly Event | Featuring Buddy Mondlock

Buddy Mondlock is an American singer-songwriter known for his storytelling through music. Born in Chicago and now based in Nashville, he has collaborated with notable artists like Janis Ian and Garth Brooks. His songs have been covered by various musicians, showcasing his influence in the folk and Americana genres. Mondlock also conducts songwriting workshops and has a rich discography that reflects his diverse musical journey.

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Journeyman Presents | Weddings & Whiskey
Feb
13
9:00 PM21:00

Journeyman Presents | Weddings & Whiskey

Weddings & Whiskey returns for an immersive evening where modern romance meets craft spirits inside Journeyman Distillery. Designed for engaged couples and wedding planners alike, this elevated showcase invites guests to explore inspired design, expert vendors, and signature cocktails—all brought to life through a live styled wedding shoot.

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Journeyman Presents | Crafted: An Artisan Workshop Series
Feb
19
6:00 PM18:00

Journeyman Presents | Crafted: An Artisan Workshop Series

Elevate your evening with Crafted, a curated workshop series designed for the curious maker. Hosted every third Thursday, we bring together local master artisans and spirits for a hands-on creative experience.

Whether you are pouring custom-scented candles or mastering the delicate flow of watercolors, you’ll receive expert, step-by-step instruction from professional creators. Each session is designed to be approachable yet refined, ensuring you walk away with a creation perfect to display, enjoy, or gift.

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Porter County Expo Center Presents | Gun and Knife Show
Feb
21
8:00 AM08:00

Porter County Expo Center Presents | Gun and Knife Show

 

Gun and Knife Show

Saturday, February 21st

8AM - 5PM

Sunday, February 22nd

9AM - 3PM

Porter County Expo Center

215 E Division Road

Valparaiso, Indiana 46383

Cost: $8

PLEASE NOTE

Individuals 17 years old or older will be permitted without parent or guardian

Individuals 16 years old and younger shall only be permitted with a parent or guardian

Individuals 12 years old and under are free with an adult

THIS EVENT IS INTENDED FOR ADULTS

 

Please note: this event is not hosted by Valparaiso Events.

 
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Porter County Expo Center Presents | Gun and Knife Show
Feb
22
9:00 AM09:00

Porter County Expo Center Presents | Gun and Knife Show

 

Gun and Knife Show

Saturday, February 21st

8AM - 5PM

Sunday, February 22nd

9AM - 3PM

Porter County Expo Center

215 E Division Road

Valparaiso, Indiana 46383

Cost: $8

PLEASE NOTE

Individuals 17 years old or older will be permitted without parent or guardian

Individuals 16 years old and younger shall only be permitted with a parent or guardian

Individuals 12 years old and under are free with an adult

THIS EVENT IS INTENDED FOR ADULTS

 

Please note: this event is not hosted by Valparaiso Events.

 
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Valpo Parks Day Trip | Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre: Pretty Woman the Musical
Mar
12
12:00 AM00:00

Valpo Parks Day Trip | Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre: Pretty Woman the Musical

Start your day with a gourmet buffet lunch and then fall in love all over again with one of the most popular romances of all time. Unlikely soulmates Vivian and Edward overcame all odds to find each other... and themselves. Experience the moments you love from the movie - and get to know the iconic characters in a whole new way! Pretty Woman the Musical is presented through special arrangement with Music Theate International (MTI).

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Journeyman Presents | Crafted: An Artisan Workshop Series
Mar
19
6:00 PM18:00

Journeyman Presents | Crafted: An Artisan Workshop Series

Elevate your evening with Crafted, a curated workshop series designed for the curious maker. Hosted every third Thursday, we bring together local master artisans and spirits for a hands-on creative experience.

Whether you are pouring custom-scented candles or mastering the delicate flow of watercolors, you’ll receive expert, step-by-step instruction from professional creators. Each session is designed to be approachable yet refined, ensuring you walk away with a creation perfect to display, enjoy, or gift.

View Event →
Journeyman Presents | Crafted: An Artisan Workshop Series (Copy)
Apr
16
6:00 PM18:00

Journeyman Presents | Crafted: An Artisan Workshop Series (Copy)

Elevate your evening with Crafted, a curated workshop series designed for the curious maker. Hosted every third Thursday, we bring together local master artisans and spirits for a hands-on creative experience.

Whether you are pouring custom-scented candles or mastering the delicate flow of watercolors, you’ll receive expert, step-by-step instruction from professional creators. Each session is designed to be approachable yet refined, ensuring you walk away with a creation perfect to display, enjoy, or gift.

View Event →
Valpo Parks Day Trip | A Dutch Day in Holland
May
5
12:00 AM00:00

Valpo Parks Day Trip | A Dutch Day in Holland

Discover the charm of Dutch culture on our unforgettable day trip to Holland, Michigan! Start with a tasty lunch at Beechwood Bar and Grill.  After lunch, embark on a guided bus tour that delves into everything tulips! Explore the iconic Windmill Island, where thousands of tulips create a breathtaking display. Finally, stroll through the charming downtown area filled with quaint shops and restaurants.

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Journeyman Presents | Crafted: An Artisan Workshop Series
May
21
6:00 PM18:00

Journeyman Presents | Crafted: An Artisan Workshop Series

Elevate your evening with Crafted, a curated workshop series designed for the curious maker. Hosted every third Thursday, we bring together local master artisans and spirits for a hands-on creative experience.

Whether you are pouring custom-scented candles or mastering the delicate flow of watercolors, you’ll receive expert, step-by-step instruction from professional creators. Each session is designed to be approachable yet refined, ensuring you walk away with a creation perfect to display, enjoy, or gift.

View Event →
Valpo Parks Day Trip | Chicago by Night Boat Tour
Jun
14
12:00 AM00:00

Valpo Parks Day Trip | Chicago by Night Boat Tour

Start your day by observing one of the United States most iconic skylines in the 360 Observation Deck.  After dinner on your own at Timeout Market, glide along the Chicago River and Lakefront as you’re dazzled by the sparkle of the city at night. Hear lively commentary as you feel the night breezes and see Chicago’s dramatic skyline transformed into a glittering jewel.


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Valpo Parks Day Trip | Drury Lane Theatre: Buddy - The Buddy Holly Story
Aug
19
12:00 AM00:00

Valpo Parks Day Trip | Drury Lane Theatre: Buddy - The Buddy Holly Story

Enjoy lunch and a show at Drury Lane Theatre in Oakbrook Terrace, IL. Buddy – The Buddy Holly Story chronicles the life and music of rock and roll pioneer Buddy Holly from his early start in Texas to his meteoric rise to fame and untimely death at the age of 22. Experience the original sound that changed rock and roll music as we know it. Content advisory: Mature Themes



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POPCORN PIT STOP | Hot Wheels Race of Champions | Food Trucks | Automotive Showcase
Sep
11
4:30 PM16:30

POPCORN PIT STOP | Hot Wheels Race of Champions | Food Trucks | Automotive Showcase

Presented by:


Food Truck Rally will take place on Lafayette St. through Central Park Plaza.

Popcorn Festival Automotive Showcase will take place on:

  • Indiana Avenue - Napoleon St. - Uncle Menny’s Original Greek’s Pizzeria

  • Lafayette St. - Indiana Ave. - Monroe St.

Get ready to wave your checkered flags, enjoy some delicious food at the Food Truck Rally, admire cool rides at the Popcorn Festival Automotive Showcase, & snap a photo at our Popcorn Pit Stop photo op as you get set for the most poppin’ weekend in Valpo!

 

POPCORN PIT STOP

Pre-Popcorn Festival Event:

Friday, September 11, 2026

William E Urschel Pavilion & Central Park Plaza

Hot Wheels Race Registration 4:30 - 5:30

Races: 5:30 - 9:00

Popcorn Festival Automotive Showcase: 4:30 - 9:00


Start your engines for Popcorn Festival weekend at Popcorn Pit Stop!

Hot Wheels Races will take place on a custom Hot Wheels track in the William E. Urschel Pavilion from 4:30 - 9:00.

Bring your own Hot Wheels Ride or purchase on-site for $2

  • Enter to race for $1 / car

  • All entry proceeds donated to Porter County Suicide Prevention Task Force.

Popcorn Festival Automotive Showcase hosted by Drivers’ Gallery

Drift’IN RC Car Track


Festival Sponsors

Thank you to our generous festival sponsors for their support:

Platinum: Purdue University Northwest

Gold: US Federal Credit Union

Silver: Indiana Beverage

Bronze: Meijer

Friends of Popcorn Festival: RB SMITH | Valpo Velvet

Parade Sponsors

Platinum:

Gold: Centier Bank | Purdue University Northwest


 

In-Kind Festival Sponsors

 
 
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Valpo Parks Day Trip | Shipshewana Countryside Living Tour
Sep
29
12:00 AM00:00

Valpo Parks Day Trip | Shipshewana Countryside Living Tour

Begin your day with a stop at the Menno-Hof Amish-Mennonite information center where guests can learn accurate information through immersive multimedia presentations and hands on displays about the faith and life of Amish and Mennonites. Then enjoy a hearty meal at one of the prime Amish banquet homes. After lunch, you will be guided by a step-on tour guide through a variety of stops highlighting the Amish culture.

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Fall Harvest Festival
Oct
10
10:00 AM10:00

Fall Harvest Festival

Fall Harvest Festival

Saturday, October 10, 2026

10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Central Park Plaza

Celebrate all things fall at the annual Fall Harvest Festival - pumpkin painting, apple cider, caramel apples, bounce houses, face painting, and more!

Fall Harvest Festival is held in conjunction with the last day of the Valparaiso Market.

Festival Sponsors:

Platinum: Hilltop Neighborhood House

Gold: 1st Source Bank | Meijer

Silver:

Bronze:


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Downtown Trick-or-Treat
Oct
23
4:00 PM16:00

Downtown Trick-or-Treat

 
DT_Trick or Treat.jpg

Downtown Trick-or-Treat

Friday, October 23, 2026

4:00 - 6:00 p.m.

DOWNTOWN VALPARAISO

Dress in your spookiest or silliest costume and join us for a fang-tastic time trick-or-treating from over 100 local businesses and organizations in Downtown Valpo!

NEW this year – after trick-or-treating, bring your Halloween candy and chairs & blankets to Central Park Plaza and join us for a family-friendly, Halloween movie starting at 7:00 p.m.!

Rain or shine, trick-or-treating will happen! Pack an umbrella just in case.

 

Festival Sponsors:

Platinum: Hilltop Neighborhood House

Gold: 1st Source Bank | Meijer

Silver:

Bronze:


2025 Trick-or-Treat Stops

Downtown Business Trick-or-Treat Stops:

Smith Ready Mix

The Press

E&A Jewelers

Blockhead Beerworks

Blachy, Tabor, Bozik & Hartman, LLC

Porter County Museum

Six Cypress Boutique

Proper Title

Peddlers Pizza Pub

Blackbird Cafe

Edie Boutique

Don Quijote

Central Park Creamery

Teazentea

Rice & Rice

Pikks Tavern

Moses Eyecare Centers

Sangha Center for Wellness, LLC

Super Submarine

Oak Partners, Inc.

Designer Desserts

Langer & Langer

Valpo Chamber

Bun’s Soapbox

Centier Bank

Washington Street Tap Room

Memorial Opera House

1st Source Bank

Nextdoor at Birdie’s

Pickles

Hungry Hound

FLUID Coffee Bar

Buffalo Wild Wings

Hightower Great Lakes

Merit Pilates

Silcott Shoes

Burke Costanza & Carberry

Valpo Vintage

Pretty Little Parties

Locks of Fun

Meridian Title

Valpo Pour House

Fidelty National Title Company

 

Non-Downtown Business / Organizations:

(Participating from Central Park Plaza & Courthouse Lawn)

Indiana Army National Guard

Hilltop Neighborhood House

HealthLinc

Lori K Bath

Champion Taekwondo

Porter County Central Communications

Restoration Church

Pete’s Barbershop

Girl Scouts of Valparaiso & Washington Township

Vale Park Animal Hospital

Renewal By Anderson

Porter County Child Support

Porter County Health Department

REMAX Lifestyles

Porter County Public Library System

NWI Baths

Walmart Valparaiso

Schillings

Valpo Parks

Andrew Rudakas State Farm

Valparaiso University Athletics

Valparaiso High School - UNICEF

Orchestrated Events

American Legion Post 94

Journeyman Distillery

Xcelsior Martial Arts

Pressure Tech Maintenance

Valparaiso Fire Department

Valparaiso Police Department

Porter County Sheriff’s Police

Ruff Luxury Inn

Red Robin

Green’s Towing

Grimes Exteriors

Sandberg’s Towing

Amps & Volts Electric

The MAAC Foundation, Inc.

Growing Kids Learning Center

Discount Roof

Grieger’s Motor Sales

Coldwell Banker Real Estate Group

@properties / Edward Jones

Ivy Tech Community College

New Chapter Real Estate

Porter County Children’s Museum

UGN

Valparaiso Chick-fil-A

Currie Motors

Valparaiso Republicans

Casey’s

NWI CHAMPION FORCE CHEERLEADING

Avalon Springs Health Campus

The Dogg House

Cotton Candy Kingdom

Great Clips


Interested in sponsoring an event? Contact us at info@valparaisoevents.com

 
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Valpo Parks Day Trip | Chicago Christmas Bakery Bus Tour
Dec
6
12:00 AM00:00

Valpo Parks Day Trip | Chicago Christmas Bakery Bus Tour

Visit 4 - 5 bakeries and shops during our extremely popular Christmas Bakery Bus! At each of the stops, you’ll receive treats, samples, & shopping time. Enjoy a generously portioned, sit-down lunch. In route to each location, the fully narrated tour includes the history of Christmas traditions from a variety of cultural groups such as the Greek, Polish, German, Italian, Irish, and Chinese. The Downtown Chicago Christmas Bakery Bus route focuses solely on stops in downtown Chicago. In addition to visiting delicious bakeries, we will see the Macy's Christmas Great Tree.

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The Northwest Indiana Bridal Expo | Sponsored by Louie's Tux Shop
Jan
18
12:00 PM12:00

The Northwest Indiana Bridal Expo | Sponsored by Louie's Tux Shop

 
 

The Northwest Indiana Bridal Expo

Sponsored by Louie’s Tux Shop

Sunday, January 18th

12-4PM CST

Porter County Expo Center

215 E Division Road

Valparaiso, Indiana 46383

The Northwest Indiana Bridal Expo is the largest single day bridal shows in Indiana and is sponsored by Louie's Tux Shop. The top specialists in the region assemble in one of the largest venues in the region to help brides and grooms get the most out of their wedding planning. What separates the Northwest Bridal Expo from any other bridal show is the cost. There is no cost for brides, grooms, or any of their guests when you register online. Louie's Tux Shop covers the entire cost of the day. Some of the show features include:

  • Free Parking

  • Complimentary Coat Check Service

  • Complimentary Tote Bags

  • Over 100 booths

  • Non Stop Fashions on Multiple Runways

  • Cash Bar and Beverage Service

  • Door prizes all throughout the day

  • Incredible Show Specials

Click HERE to see a list of wedding specialists that are currently signed up.

 
Bride Registration
 

Please note: this event is not hosted by Valparaiso Events.

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Indiana Ballet Theatre Northwest Presents | The Nutcracker
Dec
21
6:00 PM18:00

Indiana Ballet Theatre Northwest Presents | The Nutcracker

 Step into the magic of the holiday season with Indiana Ballet Theatre’s enchanting production of The Nutcracker! A timeless tradition for families across Northwest Indiana, this beloved ballet brings Clara, her Nutcracker Prince, and the dazzling Land of Sweets to life with breathtaking choreography, lavish costumes, and Tchaikovsky’s unforgettable score.

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Chicago Street Theatre Presents | A Charlie Brown Christmas
Dec
21
1:30 PM13:30

Chicago Street Theatre Presents | A Charlie Brown Christmas

Back again for another holiday season!

A timeless classic for the whole family!

The animated television special A Charlie Brown Christmas comes to life in this faithful stage adaptation in which Charlie Brown, Snoopy and the rest of the Peanuts gang discover the true meaning of Christmas.

View Event →
Indiana Ballet Theatre Northwest Presents | The Nutcracker
Dec
21
1:00 PM13:00

Indiana Ballet Theatre Northwest Presents | The Nutcracker

 Step into the magic of the holiday season with Indiana Ballet Theatre’s enchanting production of The Nutcracker! A timeless tradition for families across Northwest Indiana, this beloved ballet brings Clara, her Nutcracker Prince, and the dazzling Land of Sweets to life with breathtaking choreography, lavish costumes, and Tchaikovsky’s unforgettable score.

View Event →
Chicago Street Theatre Presents | Classical Blast: Dark Side of the Yule
Dec
20
7:00 PM19:00

Chicago Street Theatre Presents | Classical Blast: Dark Side of the Yule

The Classical Blast holiday show has become a tradition for many of our patrons. "Dark Side of the Yule" is where Christmas meets Classic Rock. For example, think Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairies fusing with Metallica, or Silent Night meets Simon & Garfunkel. There is nothing like it! 

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Indiana Ballet Theatre Northwest Presents | The Nutcracker
Dec
20
7:00 PM19:00

Indiana Ballet Theatre Northwest Presents | The Nutcracker

 Step into the magic of the holiday season with Indiana Ballet Theatre’s enchanting production of The Nutcracker! A timeless tradition for families across Northwest Indiana, this beloved ballet brings Clara, her Nutcracker Prince, and the dazzling Land of Sweets to life with breathtaking choreography, lavish costumes, and Tchaikovsky’s unforgettable score.

View Event →
Chicago Street Theatre Presents | A Charlie Brown Christmas
Dec
20
1:30 PM13:30

Chicago Street Theatre Presents | A Charlie Brown Christmas

Back again for another holiday season!

A timeless classic for the whole family!

The animated television special A Charlie Brown Christmas comes to life in this faithful stage adaptation in which Charlie Brown, Snoopy and the rest of the Peanuts gang discover the true meaning of Christmas.

View Event →
Chicago Street Theatre Presents | A Charlie Brown Christmas
Dec
19
7:30 PM19:30

Chicago Street Theatre Presents | A Charlie Brown Christmas

Back again for another holiday season!

A timeless classic for the whole family!

The animated television special A Charlie Brown Christmas comes to life in this faithful stage adaptation in which Charlie Brown, Snoopy and the rest of the Peanuts gang discover the true meaning of Christmas.

View Event →
Chicago Street Theatre Presents | A Charlie Brown Christmas
Dec
14
5:00 PM17:00

Chicago Street Theatre Presents | A Charlie Brown Christmas

Back again for another holiday season!

A timeless classic for the whole family!

The animated television special A Charlie Brown Christmas comes to life in this faithful stage adaptation in which Charlie Brown, Snoopy and the rest of the Peanuts gang discover the true meaning of Christmas.

View Event →