Valparaiso Events in Northwest Indiana kicked off the summer season with a bang by hosting their annual movie series in downtown Valpo. Every Tuesday from June 6 to 27, residents and visitors gathered at Central Park Plaza to enjoy a night of outdoor entertainment. Movies like Ratatouille, Mary Poppins Returns, Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs, and Honey, I Shrunk the Kids were shown on a big screen, delighting audiences of all ages.
To make the experience even more enjoyable, Valparaiso Events organized a variety of pre-movie activities starting at 5:30 p.m. Children were entertained with free face painting, balloon twisting, and engaging games. Local businesses sponsored the event, including Valparaiso University, Crumbl Cookie, and Valpo Velvet. Guests were also treated to musical entertainment and the chance to meet and greet characters from the movies. And, of course, there was free popcorn for everyone to enjoy.
Despite some obstacles, Valparaiso Events remained dedicated to providing a memorable experience for the community. On June 13, despite the rain, they moved the movie screening of Mary Poppins Returns to the William E. Urschel Pavilion to ensure that the show could go on. And on June 27, they rescheduled the movie due to an air quality alert, showing their commitment to the safety and enjoyment of their audience.
The summer fun didn’t stop there. Valparaiso Events organized other exciting events throughout June. On June 23, they hosted the first annual Valpo Blues & BBQ Festival, featuring impressive blues artists and mouthwatering BBQ tastings from Valpo’s best restaurants. This event brought the community together for a day of great music and delicious food.
Looking ahead, the city of Valparaiso is gearing up for its yearly Porter County Fair, scheduled from July 20 to July 29. Located at 217 E. Division Road, the fair promises ten days of excitement and entertainment. With general entry costing $10 per person (ages 10 and up), visitors can enjoy everything the fair has to offer. However, if you arrive before 12 p.m., admission is free. Fair parking is also free for everyone.
The Porter County Fair is not just about rides and games; it offers a wide variety of entertainment options. From grandstand concerts featuring popular artists like Jon Pardi, Jelly Roll, Zach Williams, and The Oak Ridge Boys, to animal shows, competitions, and rodeo and motorized events, there is something for everyone. Additionally, the fair boasts an expansive expo center with exhibits and, of course, carnival rides.
In addition to the Porter County Fair, July is packed with more exciting events in Valpo. The summer concert series, beginning on July 13, will bring live music to downtown Valparaiso. The Valpo Wine Festival on July 22 will offer a delightful experience for wine enthusiasts. And for those who love music, Zao Island’s free summer music series will continue in July, featuring new artists every Friday between 7 p.m. and 10 p.m.
Overall, Valparaiso Events and the city of Valparaiso are working hard to provide a summer filled with fun and entertainment for residents and visitors. Whether it’s enjoying movies in the park, attending the Porter County Fair, or exploring the various events in July, there is something for everyone in this vibrant community. So mark your calendars and get ready for a summer to remember in Valpo.
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