Events in Porter County, IN

Now in its seventh year, this marketplace fills the Porter County Expo Center with more than 100 artists, vintage sellers, and makers who celebrate the strange and unusual. Browse unique wares with a macabre, creepy, dark, and spooky flair, and enjoy on-site food and drinks while you explore. Admission is $5, cash only at the door, for attendees over 13.

Celebrate seasonal eating with a focus on local foods. Explore what is available at the moment and choose fresh options that reflect the time of year.

Tri Kappa Iota’s annual charity golf outing brings players together at Valparaiso Country Club for a shotgun start in a four person scramble. Registration is available, and lunch is served under a tent while play is underway. The event recognizes title sponsor Benjamin F. Edwards and Clifford E. Bryan, MBA, branch manager, whose support helps further Tri Kappa Iota’s mission to strengthen charity, culture, and education in the Valparaiso community. Sponsorship opportunities are available for businesses and supporters seeking visibility while contributing to local impact.

At Gabis Arboretum at Purdue Northwest, this outdoor women’s circle meets in a covered pavilion beside a crackling fire the day after the September full moon. It offers a welcoming space for women to speak, listen, and be seen, continuing a long tradition of circles that uplift and share wisdom. The gathering focuses on empowerment, reflection, and release, honoring the moon’s connection to intuition, creativity, and insight. Attendees are invited to wear tulle skirts as a symbol of strength, transparency, and the many layers that connect participants. Expect time to share stories, let go of what no longer serves, and strengthen a sense of community. Tickets are limited. Admission is $30, with a $25 rate for past attendees.

Build essential lifesaving skills with a Basic Life Support course aligned with the latest American Heart Association guidelines for CPR and Emergency Cardiovascular Care. Instruction includes recognizing life threatening emergencies, performing effective CPR for adults, children, and infants, using an AED promptly, providing ventilations with a barrier device, relieving choking in adults and infants, and working as an effective team member during multiple rescuer CPR with an emphasis on the BLS elements of the Chain of Survival. This training is intended for those who deliver care in the field or in healthcare settings, such as EMTs, paramedics, firefighters, hospital staff, healthcare providers and first responders, as well as personnel in dental offices, nursing homes, and childcare environments. Confirm with your employer that this is the appropriate course for your position. After successfully completing the course, participants receive an American Heart Association course completion card that is valid for two years, delivered by email, with processing that may take two to three weeks.

Heart health screenings for youth are offered at the Porter County Health Department for participants ages 10 to 25. The $30 screening includes a health history questionnaire, measurements of height and weight, a blood pressure reading, an electrocardiogram, and a limited echocardiogram. Parking is available in the garage off Napolean Street, and attendees should enter the building through the second floor entrance. These screenings are provided in partnership with the Zac Mago Foundation.

American Legion Post 94 presents a lively Oktoberfest celebration featuring a polka band to start the festivities and Small Town, a John Mellencamp tribute act, to close the night. German fare and shotskis add to the fun, with food and drinks sold separately. Tickets are $15 per person. The event highlights support for a nonprofit veterans organization.

Verona’s Pizza hosts a live performance by The Lazy Lightning Band, bringing food and live music together. The show is planned outdoors, weather permitting. Open to all ages.

This free community bike ride with Valparaiso Pathways starts at Bicentennial Park and meanders through the autumn colors at Rogers Lakewood Park. All ages are welcome.

Open to all, this monthly low vision support group offers a welcoming space for individuals with visual impairments, as well as their families and caregivers. Discussions cover eye conditions, available treatments, emerging research, and practical aids that can make daily life easier. Participants share experiences, ask questions, and exchange resources, creating a community of understanding and encouragement.

A welcoming monthly craft meetup for every skill level. All materials are provided so you can dive into creative projects and enjoy a friendly, social atmosphere while connecting with others. Sessions are held at Pretty Little Parties. This is a ticketed experience and requires advance purchase.

Build confidence to respond in an emergency with the American Heart Association Heartsaver First Aid CPR AED course. Participants learn how to give first aid, perform adult CPR, and operate an AED safely and quickly, all aligned with the latest AHA guidelines for CPR and Emergency Cardiovascular Care. Successful completion earns a course completion card that remains valid for two years. This training is designed for people with little or no medical background who need a completion card for work or regulatory needs such as OSHA, as well as anyone who wants to be ready to help in everyday situations. It is a practical option for good Samaritans, lifeguards, babysitters, and employees in workplaces or restaurants that maintain an on-site AED. The curriculum includes first aid fundamentals, recognizing and responding to medical, injury, and environmental emergencies, steps to help prevent illness and injury, adult CPR and AED use, and response to opioid-associated life-threatening emergencies. Optional modules are available for Child CPR AED and Infant CPR.

MAACtoberfest debuts as a community celebration that supports first responders and the lifesaving training they receive through the MAAC Foundation. Heroes Hangout and the nearby outdoor areas by the new HQ Building and Kathryn Hall will be reimagined as an Oktoberfest-inspired venue with food, music, games, and plenty of community spirit. Expect live German music and entertainment, outdoor activities and family friendly fun, German specialties alongside local favorites, and a selection of German and domestic beers, all in welcoming outdoor gathering spaces. Proceeds from this inaugural event directly support training and programs for first responders through the MAAC Foundation.

An evening dedicated to conversation about influence and focus in first responder families. The discussion centers on the factors that shape family life and on practical ways to stay grounded and purposeful together.

Close out the season with a spirited four-person scramble as the superintendent flips the script and sets the course to revenge mode. Look for challenging pin positions, unexpected obstacles, and reworked holes that add a twist to every decision. Prizes await the top teams.

This event features live music.

The Banta Center hosts a neighborhood chili cook-off that welcomes everyone to taste and compete, even if you do not live in the Banta area. This free gathering provides bowls, spoons, cups, napkins, and a selection of drinks for tasters. Those planning to submit a chili should sign up in advance, bring a standard-size crock pot filled with their recipe, and may include toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, oyster crackers, or saltines. Organizers will supply a sign for each entry along with ladles, spoon rests, table covers, and an extension cord. Please arrive at least 30 minutes early to drop off your chili. The winner is chosen by popular vote, earning a trophy and bragging rights. Staying for the entire event is optional.

Hosted by the Porter County, Lake County, LaPorte County, and Gary Health Departments, this free community baby shower celebrates growing families and offers support for parents across the region. It welcomes those who are expecting, new parents, and anyone supporting a growing family. NWI families can connect with local organizations and explore family support information, educational materials, and helpful items for babies and parents. Giveaways and other activities add a sense of fun and encouragement, underscoring that raising a child is a collective effort.

This screening at the Porter County Health Department provides a thorough heart health check for participants ages 10 to 25. For $30.00, the visit includes a brief health history questionnaire, measurements of height and weight, a blood pressure reading, an electrocardiogram, and a limited echocardiogram. Screenings are offered in partnership with the Zac Mago Foundation, and scheduling is available. Upon arrival, park in the parking garage off Napolean Street and enter through the second floor entrance.

Now in its sixth year, this holiday craft and vendor fair highlights shopping local and brings together offerings from crafters and vendors. The event is hosted by First Presbyterian Church. For more information, contact TLawson@fpcvalpo.org.

Designed for men in the community, this uplifting gathering invites open conversation and fosters healing, growth, and genuine connection. It acknowledges the stress and struggles many carry in silence, then offers a supportive environment where strength and vulnerability can coexist and restoration can begin. Attendees can expect meaningful discussions, encouragement, and a sense of belonging that reinforces the message that no one is meant to face life alone. Free lunch is included. Registration is available.

The 3 Little Birds Holiday Market brings a festive two day shopping experience to Porter County Expo Center, showcasing small, boutique, and other local businesses. Browse handmade items, unique pieces, and vintage goods while enjoying live music from local performers. Gourmet coffee and food trucks will be on site, adult drinks are available, and Santa stops by on Saturday. Advance tickets are available, and a portion of proceeds supports Abra Animal Rescue.

Celebrate the season at a festive market filled with holiday decor and gift finds. Enjoy food, drinks, and live music as you browse. Santa will be on site to add a little extra magic.

Explore a two day holiday market at Porter County Expo Center that celebrates local small and boutique businesses. Browse one of a kind, handmade, unique, and vintage goods while enjoying live performances by local musicians. Gourmet coffee and food trucks will be on site, and adult beverages will be available. Santa appears on Saturday. Part of the proceeds support Abra Animal Rescue.

In beautiful Lunenburg, Nova Scotia, this craft and vendor show features more than 150 vendors spread across multiple buildings, including a new building added for 2026. Browse handmade pottery, woodworking, glass art, textiles, home decor, jewelry, and more from Nova Scotian artisans and makers. Enjoy food trucks on site both days, live music, and outdoor tents, along with local treats, beverages, and specialty products. Admission includes a weekend pass bracelet. Only service dogs are permitted inside buildings. Bringing cash is recommended. For more information: ccsteakscake1986@gmail.com.

A bustling marketplace with a wide range of vendors fills multiple buildings. Enjoy options from a variety of food trucks, and catch a cheerful visit with Santa. It is a convenient place to tackle holiday shopping and pick up decorations.

Mommas Home Goods hosts the third Holidaze Market at the Porter County Expo Center. Designed for holiday shopping or a simple day out, this market offers a friendly setting to browse and enjoy the seasonal spirit.

Who Dat Dere makes a return to Duffy’s Place for a party centered on dancing and fun. Attendees can come hungry and wear their dance shoes for a Who Dat Dere good time.

Explore a lively vendor market in Lunenburg, Nova Scotia, featuring more than 150 vendors spread across multiple buildings, including a newly added building for 2026. Expect food trucks on site both days, live music, and outdoor tents that create plenty of space to browse. Shop handmade pottery, woodworking, glass art, textiles, home decor, jewelry, and more from Nova Scotian artisans and makers. Enjoy local flavors with baked goods, fudge, nuts, specialty foods, a range of beverages, and local wines. Admission includes a weekend pass bracelet. Only service dogs are permitted inside buildings. Cash is recommended for a smooth shopping experience. For more information, email Sabcreationkey50@gmail.com.

Toyz turns up the volume for a high-energy rock set packed with nothing but hits, drawing from favorites by Motley Crue, Poison, S.T.P., AC/DC, Offspring, Twisted Sister, A.I. Chains, Aerosmith, R.H.C.P., White Zombie, Lit, and more.