Valpo Parks has been recognized by the Indiana Parks & Recreation Association with their 2022 Outstanding Agency Award. Each year this award recognizes an exceptional Indiana parks organization that shows involvement and significant contributions to the parks and recreation field. Valpo Parks was chosen for their work to elevate the quality of life in Valparaiso, serving as a successful model statewide. 

The City of Valparaiso was delighted to partner with the local organization, Kyle's Legacy, to host a "My Point of View" dinner with Mayor Murphy. The dinner, which was one idea presented at Valpo Next's recent Pitch Night, was an opportunity to connect local families from the disability community with city leaders to build awareness and take action on opportunities to make Valparaiso more accessible. Check out this article from NWI Times for more details. The city will continue to advance disability awareness and inclusion in Valpo. Look for more opportunities to get involved in March 2023. Photo of Samuel Pati and Leo Davison by NWI Times.

Kick off the holiday season with Valpo Parks at the annual Winter Fest on Saturday, Nov. 26, from 5:00 - 7:00 pm. Central Park will be decorated with live figure skating performances, photos with Santa, food vendors, live music and Mayor Murphy's presentation of the city's Good Neighbor Award right before the lighting of the NEW city holiday tree at 6:00 pm. Come enjoy the holiday festivities and celebrate Small Business Saturday in downtown Valpo!

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The Mayor's Youth Council meets monthly to explore topics related to local government, leadership development and community service. In October, they visited the MAAC Foundation to learn more about the police and fire departments through hands-on activities. They had the opportunity to meet K9 Keno, experience the VirTra Simulator, practice extinguishing fires and more. In November, they learned more about balancing community priorities by practicing some mock city council scenarios. Stay tuned for more updates on these future leaders!

The sculptural ‘Lucky Dog’ has found a new home at Valpawraiso Dog Park! Lucky Dog will move when the current exhibit at Valparaiso Art Walk concludes. Pictured with Lucky Dog is Dan McGuire from Valpo Parks and Artist Martha Cares. Thank you to the Valparaiso Redevelopment Commission for their ongoing support of the Art Walk and for the purchase of Lucky Dog. Learn more about public art in Valpo.

Welcome the holidays as Downtown Valparaiso comes to life with the sights and sounds of the holiday season. Enjoy train rides, live entertainment, ice carving and more. Admire the decorated streets and visit your favorite shops for their annual holiday open houses. This event is free to attend and remember that additional parking is conveniently available at the Porter County parking garage. Shop and dine local this holiday season! Learn more.