Downtown Valparaiso celebrates with thousands during 48th annual Popcorn Fest and parade

On Saturday, September 12, the streets of Valparaiso were jam-packed with local businesses, parade floats, vendors, and thousands of attendees for the annual Popcorn Fest downtown.

Valparaiso Mayor Jon Costas considers the Popcorn Fest to be the ultimate experience for the city to showcase everything it has to offer.

“You have our beautiful downtown filled with local businesses, restaurants, artists, community organizations, and visitors from throughout the Region,” Costas said. “It’s a chance for people to experience the energy and character of our community all in one place. Valparaiso has always been a community that knows how to gather and celebrate our city, but what truly makes it special is the people.”

As one of the staple events every year in Valparaiso, the preparation for the Popcorn Fest is always a multi-month effort.

“Events like this are a reminder that great things don’t happen because of one person; they happen because a community works together. Planning begins months in advance, led by our extraordinary Valparaiso Events organization, City departments, public safety personnel, downtown businesses, Valpo Parks, vendors, volunteers, and many others,” Costas said. “There are logistics involving everything from street closures and the parade to vendor locations, public safety, sanitation, and entertainment. It’s always astounding to see how quickly teams restore the city.”

This year marked the 48th annual Popcorn Fest. Costas, who was first elected as mayor in 2003 and served until 2020 prior to being re-elected in 2023, has more than two decades of experience with the city government. He views the Popcorn Fest as part of the fabric that gives this community its identity.

“I’ve had the privilege of seeing the festival evolve over the years, but what has never changed is the excitement people feel about coming downtown and being a part of something together. For me, it’s especially meaningful to see families who attended years ago now bringing their children—and even grandchildren—to enjoy the same tradition,” Costas said. “That’s when you realize it’s more than just a festival; it’s part of the story of our community.”

Between vendors, activities, and the annual parade, the Popcorn Fest has something for people of all ages. More than 340 vendors, along with a unique arrangement of food, arts, and crafts, were available. Community organizations, live music, activities for children, and the Ultimate Poppin’ Play Zone garnered a lot of attention.

This year’s theme, “Poppin’ Through the Decades,” took festival attendees on a blast to the past, from the 70s through the 80s and 90s.

One business that participated in the Popcorn Fest this year is Lori K Bath. The team at Lori K Bath came together to create a retro-themed float for the parade. Jim McCall, chief executive officer of Lori K Bath, appreciates being able to connect with the people of Valparaiso through this festival every year.

“Popcorn Fest is about being part of the community we’re fortunate enough to serve every day,” McCall said. “Our team works hard all year, so it’s a chance for everyone to have fun, interact with neighbors, and enjoy one of the events that makes Valpo such a special place. Events like Popcorn Fest give us an opportunity to reinforce those relationships and let people see the personalities behind the name. I think it’s good for the entire local business community, because when people know and trust the businesses in their own community, everybody benefits.”

From the parade to interactions with other local businesses, Lori K Bath has been involved with the Popcorn Fest in a variety of ways. McCall values the importance of slowing down, getting outside, and sharing appreciation for the organizations and individuals who dedicate themselves to the Valparaiso community.

“There’s a real sense of camaraderie,” McCall said. “Our business is built around serving homeowners, but our responsibility goes beyond the work we do inside someone’s home. We want Lori K Bath to be a company that contributes to the community rather than just doing business in it – whether that’s Popcorn Fest, supporting local organizations, working with other local businesses, or simply taking care of our customers and employees the right way.”

For another year, the Popcorn Fest flooded the Valparaiso community with smiles, laughter, and a family-friendly environment. Costas hopes that everyone left the event with memories that will last a lifetime. He looks forward to celebrating what started back in 1979 as Orville Redenbacher Recognition Day for many years to come with the community.

“I hope it reminds our residents how fortunate we are to live in a community with such strong traditions and a vibrant downtown,” Costas said. “For someone considering making Valparaiso their home, I hope they see a welcoming community where people are connected and engaged. For first-time visitors, I hope they enjoyed the festival, but also discover Valparaiso itself. I hope they explore our downtown, visit our shops and restaurants, and leave thinking, ‘I’d like to come back.’”

For more information on the City of Valparaiso, you can visit ci.valparaiso.in.us.