Good morning, Valparaiso.

Craig Freyenberger, CEO of Bringing Children Hope, works to keep families together by offering Christian care and resources like job assistance and addiction counseling.

The organization partners with local nonprofits & government agencies to support families facing tough challenges while strengthening community bonds.

The Mayor’s Youth Council named Nora Burk as Valpo’s Rising Star for 2025—recognizing her volunteer work with K-Kids, a local animal shelter and Meals on Wheels—with Mayor Costas and council members praising her leadership.

Families can enjoy Pictures with Santa at Sunset Hill County Park on Dec.

13 from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. The free event invites community members to take photos with Santa, decorate cupcakes and savor popcorn along with games and a Winter Lights drive-through.

The Valpo Parks Foundation announced three board members—Drew Sarkisian, Josh Schoon, and John Scott—who will serve in 2026 and named board officers including President Tim VerSchure, Vice Presidents Brandi Anstine and Maggie Clifton, Treasurer Melanie Steider, and Secretary Kerry Walker. The foundation thanked Linda Eyermann for her service since 2018.

Redwood Landscape, Northwest Indiana’s top landscaper, builds success with a family-first approach — owners Todd and Joy Zandstra encourage teamwork and open communication on projects, including involving their children.

Indiana Ballet Theatre presents The Nutcracker at Valparaiso High School on Dec.

20 at 7 PM and Dec. 21 at 1 and 6 PM with tickets costing $24 to $29; online ticket sales close one hour before each show while tickets are also available at the door.

Valparaiso High School hosted 'This Is Our Story,' a holiday festival featuring over 1,000 students from Valparaiso Community Schools.

The event showcased live music and art and built community spirit as students continue preparing for next year’s festivities.

Chicago Street Theatre in Valparaiso presents A Charlie Brown Christmas starting tonight at 7:30 p.m. with an adult cast, followed by teen and adult shows on Thursday and Sunday (varied times).

Bring five canned food items to receive a signed Charlie Brown stocking.

Kadie Daye from Adams Radio has been named one of Radio's 30 & Under Superstars by Radio Ink Magazine.

She hosts shows on Indiana 105.5 WLJE-FM and Z-107.1 WZVN-FM and brings nine years of radio experience to the honor.

Big Shoulders Fund Northwest Indiana awarded the White Family Leaders Scholarship to 80 high school students who demonstrate leadership and community service.

Senior Alexis Lockett and sophomore Aedan Hassett gained key experience through workshops & retreats that equip them for future opportunities.

A 14,184 sqft senior center built in 1924 cleared a zoning hurdle and could be converted into a housing complex; the collegiate gothic building in Valparaiso will begin redevelopment in the coming years + plans are in early stages.

The Crossroads Chamber will host its first-ever pickleball tournament on Friday, Feb.

6 at the new YMCA Sportscenter in Crown Point (1307 S Main Street). The event, hosted by the Crossroads Connects Foundation, will invite players of all skill levels to join friendly competition and community networking.

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.