Valparaiso was alive and poppin’ during the 42nd annual Popcorn Fest on Saturday, September 11.
While the City of Valparaiso has always enjoyed commemorating Indiana legend Orville Redenbacher, this year offered a little more to celebrate. Last year’s Popcorn Fest was canceled due to COVID-19, so it was especially exciting to return to a Valpo staple so many missed back in 2020.
With this in mind, community and togetherness were extremely strong themes that could easily be seen by many at this year's Popcorn Fest.
“To me, our Popcorn Festival is a Valparaiso Holiday. Just like the Fourth of July and Thanksgiving, it is a time of community and family gatherings, special events and traditions,” said Valparaiso Parks Director John Seibert. “To me and so many I know, a lifetime of joyful memories have been created and passed on through the generations. It is an opportunity to come together as neighbors, welcome guests, and volunteer for selfless causes. It is a time to celebrate all the good that WE ARE VALPO can inspire us to be.”
The day kicked off early in the morning with the Popcorn Panic Five Mile and 5K Walk and Run. The race brought in thousands of participants as they raced through the city streets with hopes of being the first to cross the finish line.
Later in the day younger kids had the chance to get their running shoes on as well and participate in the Lil Kernel Puff Race. This was a middle-distance race where kids ranging from ages eight to 13 ran one lap around the Fairgrounds Park track.
With the Popcorn Fest falling on the 20th anniversary of 9/11, a remembrance ceremony was also held on the Michigan Music Stage as well.
Valparaiso Events was to thank for the festivities that followed for the remainder of the day. The group worked exceptionally hard to bring about a tradition loved by the Valpo community.
The parade was a crowd favorite, including dazzling costumes and colorful floats featuring many familiar faces throughout the Valpo area.
From delicious foods, music, events, and more, the Popcorn Fest had a little of something for everyone to enjoy. A play zone was set up to keep the kids entertained, and adults enjoyed their afternoon at a beer garden into the evening. In addition, over 250 craft, food, and art booths were present as well.
A music festival was also held on the main stage, which included Chicago-based band The Instinct, Valparaiso-based group The Blues Project, and the band Mindfully Blind.
The Popcorn Fest lived up to the hype for another year, making the community Valpo proud. Many were impressed by how the day turned out and were pleased they had a chance to participate in the beloved Valpo tradition.
For more information on Valparaiso Events, visit its website at https://www.valparaisoevents.com/.
