Good morning, Valparaiso.

Centier Bank was named the Best Bank to Work For in Indiana by American Banker’s 2025 list on December 1 — a top honor that also ranked it #5 nationally — marking its eighth consecutive win in the state.

On Friday, November 21, Legacy Foundation hosted its 2026 FutureCast at Avalon Manor where community leaders and Indiana University financial experts discussed topics such as trade policy, housing affordability, and interest rates.

Legacy Foundation President Kelly Anoe welcomed guests and led the Pledge of Allegiance—while interim dean Micah Pollack moderated the panel discussion—engaging attendees in a lively Q&A session.

Lubeznik Center for the Arts will host its free First Friday on December 5 from 5-8 p.m. (Central) where guests will enjoy holiday songs by the Krueger Middle School Advanced Chorus at 6 p.m., view art exhibits and shop the Holiday Artisan Market, and attend a book signing by Amanda Bates Barnes.

The 10th annual Good Life Awards recapped positive moments from December 1 in Valparaiso—showing how local figures improved community life and inspired many.

The review offers a clear look at the event’s highlights and upbeat energy.

The Valparaiso Art Advisory Committee is inviting sculpture submissions for the 2026-2027 Art Walk at Cumberland Crossing, a community exhibit run by Community Engagement in partnership with the Redevelopment Commission + Urschel Development Corporation.

Artists may submit up to four outdoor works by December 15 for a $1,500 honorarium and future display from June through May.

Gas prices in Valparaiso dropped by 22.5 cents a gallon after the Thanksgiving travel surge ended—winter storms dumped up to 10 inches of snow on the area.

The Northern Indiana Commuter Transportation District said the South Shore Line project formerly called the West Lake Corridor Project is now named the Monon Corridor—its new website explains the eight-mile extension runs from Hammond south near the Munster/Dyer border.

The project will finish in the first quarter of 2026 and honors the old Monon Railroad.

The U.S. Postal Service reminded local residents to keep sidewalks and areas around mailboxes clear of snow and ice so letter carriers can safely deliver mail and announced holiday shipping deadlines to ensure gifts arrive by Christmas.

Customers using Ground Advantage or First-Class Mail must send packages by December 17th, while Priority Mail users have until December 18th and Priority Mail Express shipments by December 20th — postal employees are committed to overcoming harsh weather conditions.

The Down Syndrome Association of Northwest Indiana received $95,000 in grants to expand its services and build new spaces at its Friendship Center + the funds will support a new commercial-grade kitchen and larger play areas to serve more families in the region.

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.

Holiday Pops!

2-7 p.m. — Memorial Opera House — $30-$60 — Celebrate the joy of music and Christmas classics with the South Shore Orchestra and a special appearance by Santa.

Echoes of Christmas

2-5 p.m. — Memorial Opera House — $40-$80 — Experience a magical evening of timeless holiday classics and dazzling visuals in a nostalgic setting.

Polar Express Screening

6:30 p.m. — Memorial Opera House — $12 Adults, $8 Children — Delight in a festive evening with a screening of The Polar Express and special guest Santa Claus.

14th Annual Chesterton Christmas Eve Jingle Bell Run

8-11 a.m. — Running Vines Winery — Free entry — Celebrate the holiday spirit with a festive fun run benefiting local charity.

NYE Wines & Wishes

5-11:59 p.m. — Trailyard by Shady Creek Winery — Reservations recommended — Savor a delicious 3-course Surf & Turf dinner special to celebrate the New Year.