A new year has begun, meaning a whole year’s lineup of fun events is in store in the months to come. From yearly staples to seasonal traditions and more, Valpo has it all no matter the time of year.
Valparaiso Events has quite the list of great events in 2024 meant for everybody of all ages to enjoy, so take a look at the list below and be sure to add a few to your calendar!
Galentine’s Shop Around – Thursday, February 8, 2024
Grab your gal pals and favorite shopping buddies to celebrate Valentine’s Day at the second Annual Galentine’s Shop Around. From 4-7 p.m. over 20 downtown stores will have special offers and Valentine’s Day themed promotions. Learn more here.
Chocolate Walk - Saturday, May 4, 2024
Calling all chocolate lovers—this event is guaranteed to satisfy any sweet tooth! This event welcomes ticket holders to visit participating downtown Valparaiso shops to collect delectable chocolate treats. You’ll visit your favorite downtown shops and restaurants and discover new ones while filling up on all things chocolate! Check out more info, including ticket sale announcements, here!
Summer Outdoor Movies - Tuesdays in June through July 2, 2024
Enjoy free activities and a family-friendly movie in Central Park Plaza at the Summer Outdoor Movies. Grab food from your favorite downtown restaurant and bring blankets and chairs to enjoy a blockbuster evening! Learn more here.
South Shore Orchestra’s 20th Anniversary Concert – Thursday, June 13, 2024
Valparaiso Events is excited to present this concert in Central Park Plaza. For the past two decades, the South Shore Orchestra has entertained and inspired Valparaiso and the entire South Shore region with their performances. Come out to celebrate this talented group of musicians and enjoy an evening of music in the park! Learn more here.
Valpo Blues and BBQ Festival - Friday June 28, 2024
After a successful first year, the Valpo Blues and BBQ Festival is returning for another go. This festival will feature a lineup of professional blues artists and BBQ from some of the tastiest spots in Valpo and the Region. Enjoy a summer night of soulful sounds and mouthwatering food! Learn more and watch for ticket sales here.
Summer Concert Series - Thursday nights from July 13 - August 31, 2024
Have a rockin’ good time at the Summer Concert Series! This can’t-miss summer tradition features a diverse lineup of talent from Northwest Indiana and Chicagoland. Bring a blanket or chairs and be sure to also check out nearby restaurants and shops for a full night out on the town. Learn more here.
Valparaiso Wine Festival - Saturday, July 20, 2024
Enjoy some refreshing wine samples accompanied by live entertainment at the Valparaiso Wine Festival, a city staple event. Central Park Plaza will be the place to be to taste a variety of red, white, and sparkling spirits while enjoying tunes and making memories with friends. Food will also be available to purchase. This event is 21+ only. Learn more and watch for ticket sales here.
Sidewalk Days – Friday, August 2 and Saturday, August 3, 2024
Shop local at your favorite downtown retailers. Find one-of-a-kind items and take advantage of great sales during this two-day sidewalk extravaganza. For a list of participating stores, check here later in the year.
Pre-Popcorn Festival Events – Thursday, September 5, 2024 and Friday, September 6, 2024
Celebrate the start of Festival weekend on Thursday evening by teleporting to the ‘80s and enjoying a rad performance by The 1985. Then rev your engines and wave your checkered flags at the Hot Wheels Race of Champions & Food Truck Rally on Friday evening. Learn more here throughout the year.
Popcorn Fest - Saturday, September 7, 2024
This beloved Valpo tradition returns for its 45th year and is sure to be a poppin’ good time! From the parade to the festival to the races and everything in between, this year’s event will be another great one for the books. Learn more here.
Brewfest Biergarten Kick-Off - Friday, September 27, 2024
Before Brewfest begins, be sure to check out the Brewfest Biergarten the day before for a round of fun events and tasty drinks. Live entertainment and imported German beer will be available for all (21+) to enjoy, and admission is free! Learn more here.
Valpo Brewfest - Saturday, September 28, 2024
The annual Valpo Brewfest returns to Central Park this September for a day when beer-lovers can celebrate and discover great craft beer. Over 200 different styles of beer from America’s best craft brewers will be available to sample—you'll be toasting to a great time all day long! Tickets are on tap in spring, and they go quickly! Learn more here.
Autumn Promenade - Saturday, October 5, 2024
Delight in a day of fall fun while strolling through downtown Valpo collecting fall-themed treats from participating shops and restaurants. This event is similar to Chocolate Walk but features your favorite fall flavors – caramel apple, cinnamon, maple, pumpkin spice, and everything nice! Learn more and watch for ticket sales here.
Fall Harvest Festival - Saturday, October 12, 2024
Come celebrate all things fall at the annual Fall Harvest Festival! From autumn-themed treats to fun activities such as bounce houses and face painting, this event has everything needed to kick off the well-loved season. This event is also held alongside the last day of the Valparaiso Market. Learn more here.
Downtown Trick-Or-Treat - Friday, October 18, 2024
Break out your spookiest, silliest, or most creative costumes for a thrilling time in downtown Valpo! Rain or shine, grab your treat bag to get lots of sweet treats from a variety of local businesses and organizations. Learn more here.
Pink Friday – Friday, November 22, 2024
Pink Friday is a growing nationwide initiative to think small and shop at local small businesses first before thinking big box during the holiday season. Bring your holiday gift lists and head to downtown Valpo for a day of Pink Friday specials and sales at your favorite local stores and restaurants. Visit Valparaiso Events' website later this year for more information.
Holly Days - Early December 2024
Christmas comes to town this December for a jolly good time! Featuring live entertainment and a plethora of holiday-themed attractions—such as lights, carolers, trains, ice sculpting, and downtown retail open houses—this event is sure to get everyone in the holiday spirit. Word on the street is that jolly ol’ Saint Nick is set to make an appearance as well. Check here throughout the year for date announcements and event details.
These are just the events produced and hosted by Valparaiso Events this year, but be sure to check out their full website calendar for other events happening throughout 2024 in Valpo!