On Thursday evening, the Valparaiso Parks Department invited the city of Valparaiso to their 3rd Annual Luminary Walk, held at the Award-winning Vale Park West Pathway. Crowds flocked to grab hot cocoa and warm cookies provided by Valpo Athletics and Valpo Parks as they prepared for the magical three-quarter mile walk, a tradition that the citizens of Valparaiso hold dear to their heart.
While walking through the trail, visitors heard the sounds of lovely choirs, such as the Jingle Tones, and chatted amongst the crowds of tradition and cheer. Two women decorated in Christmas lights mentioned that the walk had become a personal tradition they call the ‘Ladies Walk,’ something they hope to continue for years to come.
The tradition, recognized for pulling in the thousands, was held back a tad by the rain and wind. However, despite the unfortunate climate, still many gathered to experience the event that has become mandatory for the Christmas season.
Visitor Katie Burnette was walking with her son, warming up to hot cocoa as they started their journey down the illuminated path.
“We’ve never been here before. When we walked up, it was so inviting and they offered us hot cocoa,” Burnette said. “It was just so nice!”
Burnette and her son were such jolly spirits that they were wishing others a ‘Merry Christmas!’
John Seibert, Director of Valpo Parks, expressed how special the event has become to so many.
“It’s such a great community event,” Seibert said. “It amazes us how many people gather and want to just be together. It’s just the third year, and it’s already become a tradition for so many.”
Seibert said the magic of the walk had much to do with the ambiance of the peaceful luminary lights that lined the entire pathway.
“Its a tradition of being outside, connecting with people you know or don't know,” Seibert said. “Valpo holds many legacies and has always had a sense of community.”
Helene Pierce, the Executive Assistant for Valpo Parks, was the dreamer behind the notable and traditional event.
“My grandmother loved luminaries. It was a part of every Christmas. Deep in my heart, this was created because of my grandma,” Pierce said. “I love to do this. There are plenty of people here having such a good time. It has truly become a tradition in our community.”
Pierce planted a seed for the Valparaiso community based off of a tradition she believed could transform in various ways in the lives of others.
The 3rd Annual Luminary Walk was a success and warmed up the hearts during the most festive time of year despite the weather. Many look toward years following this special and once-a-year tradition, and keep hope that it will stay a part of the Valparaiso culture.
The Valpo Parks Department thank their champion sponsor, Thorgren Industries, as well as the many others who contributed to the event.
Luminary Sponsors:
- Anton Insurance
- Chicago Title
- John Cunningham
- Douglas, Koeppen & Hurley
- Larry & Heather Hitz
- Meridian Title Corporation
- In Memory of Leanna Stanley
- Swartz, Retson & Co.
- Thorgren Tool & Molding Co., Inc.
- Valparaiso First Insurance
In-Kind Sponsors:
- Absolutely Dry
- C.C.S.Canopies Rentals & Sales
- Jingle Tones
- Johnny On the Spot
- Rise’N Roll Bakery
