Valparaiso, or "Valpo" as the locals fondly call it, offers ideal small-town charm often featured in rom-coms and holiday movies, but we are definitely not lacking in big-time activities heading into the fall. Nestled in the heart of Porter County, Valparaiso is known for its tight-knit community, scenic beauty, and vibrant local businesses, shopping, events and cuisine. While life in Valpo is definitely marked by the beauty during all four seasons, the arrival of fall is particularly magical in our town. The crisp autumn air, vibrant leaves, and community-centered events create an atmosphere where life slows down, and residents can truly savor every moment.
From the Valpo Popcorn Festival to festive holiday markets, Valpo’s fall calendar is packed with family-friendly fun. At Hendren Custom Homes, we love to celebrate the shift in weather and head into the holidays with eagerness and joy.
The Beauty of Valparaiso: Fall in Porter County
Our town is transforming into a landscape of red, orange, and yellow hues. It’s a sight to behold, whether you’re taking a stroll through downtown, or enjoying a hot cup of coffee at your favorite coffee spot, the atmosphere feels undeniably cozy and inviting. The fall season also brings a series of exciting events and festivals that embody the spirit of Valpo and Porter County.
Valparaiso Fall Calendar: Activities, Events & Fun Things to Do
October
Valparaiso Farmers Market (Every Saturday)
Stock up on fresh produce, artisan goods, and seasonal favorites while supporting local farmers and makers. You can find the Valparaiso Farmer's Market at 63 Lafayette St. Valparaiso, IN, United States, Indiana until October 12th.
Valparaiso Popcorn Festival
Celebrate the town’s rich history with popcorn at this annual event, featuring parades, live music & entertainment, and food vendors.
Kickoff Concert: Thursday, September 5, 2024 7-8:30PM
Central Park Plaza, 68 Lafayette Street
Hot Wheels Race of Champions & Food Truck Rally: Friday, September 6, 2024 4:30-9pm
William E Urschel Pavilion & Central Park Plaza
Saturday, September 7, 2024, 8:00AM-6:30PM
Downtown Valparaiso
World Cultural Festival
Celebrate the 15th annual World Cultural Festival in celebration of Valpo’s diverse cultures with food, music, and art from around the globe.
Sunday, September 15, 2024, 12:00 - 5:00PM
Central Park Plaza, 68 Lafayette St.
Full Moon Women’s Circle
The Full Moon Women’s Circle at Gabis Arboretum is a sacred gathering where women unite under the full moon to share wisdom, release what no longer serves them, and strengthen their inner connection.
Tuesday, September 17, 2024, 6-9PM
Gabis Arboretum at Purdue Northwest, 450 West 100 North
Valpo Brewfest
A celebration of craft beer from local breweries and beyond, featuring live music and samples of 200+ beers, ciders & meads.
Kickoff: Friday, September 27, 2024, 4:30 - 9:00PM
Central Park Plaza - Downtown Valparaiso
Beerfest: Saturday, September 28, 2024 1:00 - 4:30PM
Memorial Opera House Presents: Young Frankenstein
Enjoy this stage adaptation of the classic Mel Brooks comedy! And remember, it’s pronounced "Fronk-en-steen".
Various dates Sunday, September 29, 2024 - Sunday, October 13, 2024
Memorial Opera House, 104 Indiana Ave.
Walk to End Alzheimer's: Presented by Alzheimer's Association
Join the world’s largest fundraiser to fight Alzheimer’s disease. Music, entertainment, dancers, kids’ games, activities, and 2-mile walk. Register here!
Sunday, October 6, 2024, 1 PM
Central Park Plaza, 68 Lafayette St.
LimeLights Youth Theatre: Kid Frankenstein
Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein - adapted for kids to perform! Tickets range from $23 - $50
Wednesday, October 9, 2024, 7:00PM.
Memorial Opera House, 104 Indiana Ave.
Fall Harvest Festival
The family-friendly Fall Harvest Festival offers pumpkin picking & painting, apple cider & caramel apples, hayrides, bounce houses, face painting, and a farmers’ market showcasing the best of local produce.
Saturday, October 12, 2024 10:00AM - 2:00 PM
Central Park Plaza
Downtown Trick-or-Treat
Bring the kids to this safe and fun Trick or Treat event where local businesses hand out treats in the heart of downtown Valpo. Rain or shine… Make sure your umbrella matches your costume, just in case!
Friday, October 18, 2024, 4 - 6:00PM.
Downtown Valparaiso
Memorial Opera House Presents - Murder on the Dance Floor
(Ages: 21 +)
The Third Annual Halloween Fundraiser features Electro Retro, costume contests, and food trucks, photo ops, and raffles! Get more info and buy tickets in the link above.
Saturday, October 28, 2023, 7Pm-Midnight
Porter County Expo Center, 215 E Division Rd, Valparaiso
November
3 Little Birds Market
If you love vintage, hand-made, up-cycled home decor, jewelry & clothing, then you should definitely check out this market!
Friday, November 8, 2024, 4 - 9 PM & Saturday, November 9, 2024, AM - 3 PM
Porter County Expo Center, 215 E. Division Rd. Valparaiso, IN
Autumn Artisan Market
Local artisans and makers will showcase their work, featuring local craft cocktails, locally sourced gourmet items, handcrafted decor, jewelry & more.
Saturday, November 9th & Sunday, November 10th, 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Journeyman Distillery, 258 South Campbell St. Valparaiso
Pink Friday - Downtown Shopping
Valpo’s Fourth Annual nationwide Pink Friday shopping experience, reminding consumers to #ShopSmallFirst and to celebrate the businesses that are the backbone of our local community.
Friday, November 22, 2024
Please check participating stores for hours of operation
Downtown Valparaiso
Valpo Holidaze Craft & Vendor Show
Tackle your holiday shopping and check out local vendors, crafters, pet supplies & more!
Saturday, November 23rd 9 AM-4 PM & Sunday, November 24th 9 AM - 3 PM
Porter County Expo Center, 215 E. Division Rd. Valparaiso
Memorial Opera House Presents: Scrooge! The Musical
Watch Ebenezer Scrooge navigate through his past and future with three visiting ghosts during this musical adaptation of the timeless classic.
Various dates Friday, November 29, 2024 - December 15, 2024
Memorial Opera House, 104 Indiana Ave. Valparaiso, Indiana
Winter Fest & Tree Lighting
Caroling, photos with Santa, treats, and the lighting of the Central Park Plaza Christmas tree (at 6:00 pm).
Saturday, November 30, 2024, 5-7PM
Central Park Plaza, 70 Lafayette St. Valparaiso
December
Holly Days
A downtown Valpo tradition, featuring live entertainment, ice sculptures, holiday lights, music and carols, downtown retail open houses, and more!
Santa & Sirens Toy Drive
Valpo Parks and the Dunes Leathernecks Marine Corp League’s largest fundraiser of the year, the Toys for Tots toy drive.
Sunday, December 8 , 2024, 4-6PM
Foundation Meadows, 3210 N. Campbell St. Valparaiso
LimeLights Youth Theatre: Holly Jolly Jamboree!
Holiday favorites sung by students.
Saturday, December 21, 2024, Pre-show event 2:30PM, performance at 4:00PM
Memorial Opera House, 104 Indiana Ave. Valparaiso, Indiana
Valparaiso’s local events offer something for everyone, whether you're looking for family-friendly fun or a night out with friends. Living in Valpo means you’re never far from a community event that brings people together, and fall is a particularly special time to experience it all.
In Valparaiso, the natural beauty of our county, strong community bonds, and exciting local events makes it a truly special place to call home. As the seasons change and fall arrives, you’ll find there’s no shortage of ways to celebrate the vibrant culture and warmth of Valpo.
*For more information on these events, check out Valparaiso Events.
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