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The 47th annual Valparaiso Popcorn Festival brings 300-plus vendors, the Popcorn Parade, live music, and free admission to downtown Valpo on Saturday, Sept 12, 2026, from 8 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.
Every year on the Saturday after Labor Day, Valparaiso celebrates its most famous son with the Popcorn Festival, and 2026 marks the 47th edition. It runs Saturday, Sept 12, from 8 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. in downtown Valparaiso, with free admission. The day starts with the Popcorn Parade, then unfolds into a full street festival: more than 300 vendors, live music on multiple stages, a kids' area, and all the kettle corn, caramel corn, and popcorn-inspired treats you could want. The tribute to Orville Redenbacher, a Valparaiso University graduate, keeps the event personal to the town. It is one of Northwest Indiana's biggest single-day gatherings of the season and an easy drive from the South Suburbs and the Dunes region. Head over early to grab a parade spot, then spend the afternoon strolling the vendors and the historic downtown streets.
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Saturday, Sept 12, 8 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. in downtown Valparaiso. Free admission, 300-plus vendors, live music, and the Popcorn Parade.
Popcorn Parade
The festival's beloved morning parade honors hometown legend Orville Redenbacher, a Valparaiso University graduate who put Valpo's popcorn on the map.
Downtown Valparaiso
After the festival, wander downtown Valpo's shops, cafes, and restaurants along the historic Lincoln Highway corridor.
