Good morning, Valparaiso.

United Way Northwest Indiana announced today the relaunch of its Volunteer Resource Center—an online hub that lets community members, corporate partners, and nonprofits easily register for service opportunities and track hours—and the platform aims to strengthen the region with better volunteer connections.

Dutch Bros Coffee—a popular drive-thru chain from Oregon—will open a new drive-thru location at the former Boston Market site in Valparaiso as part of its expansion plans in Munster and the local area amid rising regional competition.

Urban Air opened its second Northwest Indiana location in Valparaiso (a new adventure and trampoline park) to give local families a fun place to play.

Retail is booming in Northwest Indiana as new cookie shops, coffee stands and car washes open to meet rising demand—big-box stores are filling up fast as a result.

A union has raised concerns that the $832 million data center under construction in Michigan City should hire local Indiana workers—instead of relying on out-of-state labor.

The union believes using local workers would better support the state’s job market.

Physician assistant students at Valparaiso University are using mixed virtual reality to study human anatomy + the program gives them a hands-on look at the human body.

Healthy Family Day at Valparaiso YMCA

9 a.m. - noon — Valparaiso Family YMCA — Free entry — Explore resources and activities for a healthier family lifestyle.

Wreath Making Class

12:00 PM — Trailyard by Shady Creek Winery — Materials included — Create a festive wreath for the holiday season.

Pink Friday Sales Event

9 AM – 7 PM — Hungry Hound Boutique & Grooming — Free entry — Discover amazing deals while supporting your local pet boutique this Pink Friday.

Watercolor Painting Class

Afternoon — Sunset Hill Farm County Park — All supplies included — Unleash your creativity in a relaxing watercolor session amidst nature.

A Charlie Brown Christmas

Nov 28 – Dec 21 — Chicago Street Theatre — Family-friendly show — Experience the heartwarming story of A Charlie Brown Christmas brought to life on stage.

Charlie and the Chocolate Factory

7-9 p.m. — Memorial Opera House — Ticketed event — Experience the whimsical journey through Willy Wonka's magical factory with Charlie Bucket and friends.

Holly Jolly Vendor Market

10 AM — Porter County Fairgrounds — Free admission — Discover local artisans and food trucks at this festive vendor market.

Cocktails & Canvas: The Jolly Snowman

6-8 p.m. — SmokeTown Blues, Valparaiso, IN — Ticket includes a free drink — Enjoy a fun painting night complete with professional guidance and creative flair.

Holidays with HealthLinc Valparaiso

4-6 p.m. — HealthLinc Valparaiso — Free — Enjoy holiday crafts, snacks, and a no-cost photo with Santa while wearing your festive pajamas.

The Caring Place 1st Annual Cookie Walk

Holiday tradition — Time not specified — Downtown Valparaiso — Ticket holders stroll to receive festive treats.