12 walking events in Valparaiso, Indiana
From big races to Saturday morning group runs—find walking events and connect with the local endurance sports community.
Valparaiso
12 events in Valparaiso-
Thu, Jan 01, 2026 at 8:00 AMSee full details
The Extra Mile Fitness Company encourages EVERYONE to move! Whether you are a marathon runner, local 5K participant, walker, crossfit specialist or working your tail off on your feet, the Extra Mile wants to keep you connected with upcoming events, group runs, training groups or the latest footwear & apparel.
In addition to store information, Extra Mile Fitness Company partners with Race the Region. The partnership is a means to sharing information about upcoming running/walking events in Northwest Indiana. The events take place once per month and encompass the communities of Northwest Indiana.
Race the Region Info
Each month we send out an informational newsletter! If you would like to receive please feel free to sign up on this page.
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Wed, Feb 25, 2026 at 6:00 PMSee full details
Join Extra Mile Fitness Company for a fun run/walk with coaches and staff!
⏰ Tuesday, February 24th at 6:00 p.m.
📍Extra Mile Fitness Company - 3400 Calumet Ave Suite 100 Valparaiso IN 46383
Be sure to complete free registration here so we know you are coming!
⇨ Fun run/walk (3 to 10 miles - you do you)
⇨ Check out NEW Mizuno Neo Zen 2, the Wave Inspire, and the Wave Rider - try it on in store or wear it for the run!
⇨ Interested in Run Club? Meet the 2026 coaching team, ask questions, and get more info! (This is a great time to test out a group run and learn more about the groups! Details and registration HERE )
More free events coming from Extra Mile Fitness! Mark these dates on your calendar
*Extra Mile fun run/walk uses the city pathways. We ask everyone to be mindful of the crosswalks, cars on the road and are familiar with the route. Anyone under the age of 12 should be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
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Sat, Mar 07, 2026 at 7:30 AMSee full details
Join Extra Mile Fitness Company for a fun run with coaches and staff on Saturday, March 7th at 7:30 a.m.
LET'S MOVE AND ACHIEVE OUR GOALS IN 2026!
Location: TBD
☺ Fun run/walk or long run - 3 miles & up - do whatever mileage works for you!
☺ Check out the newest brand at Extra Mile - Diadora!
PLEASE complete free registration on this site so we can plan accordingly!!
Extra Mile fun run/walk uses the city pathways. We ask everyone to be mindful of the crosswalks, cars on the road and are familiar with the route. Anyone under the age of 12 should be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
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Sat, Mar 07, 2026 at 9:00 AMSee full details
Distance:
3.1 Mile Run / Walk---All Trail
Course: Sunset Hill County Park
775 N Meridian Rd, Valparaiso
Challenging wooded trail run with rolling hills, unpredictable weather, and fun times!
Amenities:
One water station, Digital clock at the finish, Large amount of real food for refreshments!!! Age group and overall awards.
Age group categories:
Male / Female: 0-11, 12-14, 15-19, 20-24, 25-29, 30-34, 35-39, 40-44, 45-49, 50-54, 55-59, 60-64, 65-69, 70+
T-shirts guaranteed to all competitors registered before February 23. Race shirts for those registering on or after February 23, and on race day, will be first come first served. Race awards to both overall male and female winners. First three finishers in each age group (male/female) will receive awards.
$25.00 No Shirt Option (no xyz discount)
$30.00 BEFORE February 23, 2026
$35.00 On or After February 23 (online only)
$35.00 Day of Race
$2.00 Discount for XYZ participants
Police / Fire / Criminal Justice Challenge:
In addition to the open race, there will be a Police/ Fire/ Criminal Justice Challenge. The Challenge takes the top three finishers from their department, combines their finishing places, and uses the total to compete against other departments. Winning department receives bragging rights and a traveling trophy. This also applies to the High School Criminal Justice Programs in Indiana that will be competing against each other. Departments eligible include any department related to Police, Fire and Public
Service. (Final determination of qualification goes to the Race Director, runners must work for or be retired from the department they represent.)
Amenities: One water station, Age group and overall awards. Large amount of real food for refreshments!!!
Early packet pick up available at The Extra Mile Fitness Company, 3400 Calumet Ave. Valparaiso, IN on Friday, March 6th.
Race day packet pick-up at the race site will open at 7:30AM
For questions and information contact:
www.portercountysheriff.com/foot-pursuit-5k
or
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Sat, Apr 04, 2026 at 8:00 AMSee full details
33rd Anniversary of RINGING IN SPRING 2026 - RUNNING FOR A CAUSE
The Valparaiso Family YMCA is proud to present the 2026 Ringing in Spring 5k Run/Walk! Start your year off on the right foot by kicking off this year's running season with NWI’s largest springtime race for 33 years! Join us in celebrating our 33rd anniversary by ringing the springtime bell, signaling the end of NWI’s cold, harsh winter and the fresh start of springtime. Run through beautiful Valparaiso neighborhoods and keep an eye out on the course for bright little daffodils welcoming you into the new season.
100% of registration proceeds benefit the Valparaiso Family YMCA Annual Campaign, providing financial scholarship assistance for programs, membership, and childcare services. Our mission is simple - To be a charitable non-profit organization that improves the quality of life in our communities through programs and services that strengthen the spirit, mind, and body for all.
Register, become a sponsor, or donate today and help the Valparaiso Family YMCA run for a cause!
CLICK HERE TO DONATE
RACE DATE & TIME
Date of Race - Saturday, April 4, 2026
Start Time - 8:00 AM (CST)
REGISTRATION DATES
Registration Begins - October 1, 2025 (12:01 AM CST)
Registration Ends - April 4, 2026 (7:45 AM CST)
Important Note: Race day registration is only available online up to 7:45 AM CST
RACE LOCATION
Valparaiso Family YMCA Pavilion (Northwest side of main building)
1201 Cumberland Crossing
Valparaiso IN 46383
Phone - (219) 462-4185
Click Here for Directions
PACKET PICK-UP
Location - Extra Mile Fitness, 3400 Calumet Ave., Valparaiso, IN
Thursday, April 2, 2026 from 10 AM to 6 PM CST
Friday, April 3, 2026 from 10 AM to 6 PM CST
Race Day: Packet pickup in Valpo YMCA gym from 7:00 to 7:45 AM CST
Note for first-time participants: Pick up your official 33rd Anniversary Ringing in Spring Shirt and disposable on-bib chip for timing purposes ahead of time and be ready to run on race day.
WHAT YOU’LL RECEIVE
• (1) Official 2026 Ringing In Spring Shirt (Deadline for guaranteed size availability is March 16, 2026)
• (1) Disposable on-bib chip for timing purposes
• (1) Top 3 in each age group will receive an official Ringing in Spring medal. Overall, male and female will receive a plaque with the signature bell on it. We also award the overall male and female for Masters.
OUR COURSE
Beginning just outside of the YMCA (by UPS in front of the Valpo YMCA) and meanders through the North end of Valparaiso until returning back to the starting point. Unfamiliar with the area? No problem. We’ll have plenty of volunteers along the route who are ready to help show you the way.
Awards
There will be awards for Overall Male/Female and Overall, Masters Male/Female. Age groups are listed below:
Age Groups (1st through 3rd place will be awarded): 10 and under, 11-12, 13-14, 15-19, 20-24, 25-29, 30-34, 35-39, 40-44, 45-49, 50-54, 55-59, 60-64, 65-69, 70-74, 75-79, 80+
The Ringing in Spring is the 4th race in the Race the Region racing series.
FAQ
Are Strollers Allowed? Yes, strollers are allowed on the 5K route. To ease runner/walker flow, strollers start at the back of the race corral. Regardless of your place in the corral, no worries! Your race time is measured by a chip, which activates when you cross the start line.
Are Dogs Allowed? No, dogs are not allowed with runners/walkers on the 5K course. For the safety of all participants, please leave all four-legged friends at home.
Why isn’t my shirt guaranteed? Quantities are limited. Our “live” shirt inventory shows the sizes currently in stock at the time you are registering.
INTERESTED IN SPONSORING RINGING IN SPRING?
Please contact our Event and Volunteer Manager, Jackie Bovy, using the info below.
Phone - (219) 462-4185 ext. 233
Email - [email protected]
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Fri, May 08, 2026 at 5:00 PMSee full details
The Mayor's Youth Council's COLOR FUN RUN benefitting Valpo Parks is FUN for the whole family! This 1.5 mile course will include running, walking, and colorful fun along with various obstacle stations to keep you on your toes! This family-friendly untimed event is great for all ages and abilities!
EVENT DETAILS
Date: Friday, May 8, 2026
Time: 6:00 pm
Location: Thomas Jefferson Middle School
Registration Fees: Adults $25, Students: $15
$10 off Family 4 Pack (2 𝘈𝘥𝘶𝘭𝘵𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 2 𝘚𝘵𝘶𝘥𝘦𝘯𝘵𝘴)
ACTIVITIES
Come for the run, stay for the fun! Before and after the race your family can enjoy a variety of FREE activities.
PACKET PICK-UP
Packet pick-up begins on-site at 5 pm. Run begins at 6 pm, waves will be released every 5 minutes.
Each participant receives a white t-shirt with registration to FILL WITH COLOR (While supplies last).
*Please note student pricing will be reflected in the cart after birthdate is entered.
**Family discount- $10 off Family registration of 2 adults and 2 or more children! Must register all family members at same time for discount to apply.
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Fri, May 15, 2026 at 6:00 PMSee full details
Friday, May 15, 2026
Central Park Plaza
(Valparaiso, IN)
6:00PM (5K Run)
6:15PM (1 Mile Dog Walk)
Moisture Wicking Shirts are guaranteed to all preregistered runners and walkers before 5/04/26.
Awards:
Overall Male/Female, Overall Masters ( ≥ 40 yr) Male/Female, Top 3 Male/Female in the following age groups: 0-8, 9-10, 11-12, 13-14, 15-18, 19-24, 25-29, 30-34, 35-39, 40-44, 45-49, 50-54, 55-59, 60-64, 65-69, 70-74, 75-80, 80+
Athena (Female ≥ 170 lb), Clydesdale (Male ≥ 210 lb)
Computerized Timing provided by T&H Timing. Split times at every mile and water stations on the course.
No strollers, bicycles, in-line skates, or scooters allowed. Handicap equipment is permitted.
The 5K run is a road course with moderate hills.
Register on-line at www.Runsignup.com until 8AM on May 15th.
5K Run (all ages) or 1 Mile Walk Ages 13 & Over $30
Children 12 & Under $25 (1 Mile Walk Only)
All mail-in registrations must be postmarked before May 1, 2026
Race Day Registration is $35 Run & Walk
Early packet pick-up will be avalible on Wednesday and Thursday from 10AM-6PM at the Extra Mile Fitness Co. 3400 Calumet Ave, Valparaiso, IN
On-site packet pick-up starts at 4:30PM on Friday.
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Sat, Aug 01, 2026 at 6:00 AMSee full details
StRides Against Suicide & Overdose 2025 is hosting a 5k Run/Walk and 10, 40, 60 and 100 mile bike rides to raise funds for Mental Health and Substance Abuse Treatment for those in Northwest Indiana that are in need and cannot afford the treatment.
Strides Overview
We are addressing an important issue that affects many people. Our mission is to spread awareness and raise money. The annual U.S. suicide rate increased 30% between 2000 and 2020. SUICIDE is the 2nd leading cause of death amongst 15–34 year olds in Indiana. In 2020, 100,306 people died by overdose in the US. One major barrier to mental health and substance abuse treatment is cost/and or lack of insurance. Our solution is to fund that treatment. Profits from the StRides Against Suicide and Overdose 2023 will be used to provide scholarships for mental health and substance abuse treatment for clients who are uninsured or cannot afford treatment. Your involvement is critical to our success in reducing the devastating numbers of Suicides and Overdoses. Thank you again for your help.
Every $525 raised pas for one individual to receive 7 sessions.
Volunteer Here!
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Sat, Aug 01, 2026 at 7:00 AMSee full details
Lace up your running shoes and join us at the fairgrounds for a fun and meaningful 5K race supporting Agricultural Education! Set against the backdrop of open skies, barns, and show arenas, this event brings together runners, walkers, families, and community members to celebrate and invest in the future of agriculture.
🌱 About the Event
The Fairgrounds 5K is a community-centered race designed to raise funds for local agricultural education programs. Proceeds will support:
FFA and 4-H student leadership programs
Classroom resources and hands-on ag science labs
Youth livestock and crop education initiatives
🏃♂️ The Course
Participants will enjoy a scenic route winding through the fairgrounds, passing livestock barns, exhibit halls, and open fields. The course is mostly flat, making it perfect for:
Competitive runners aiming for a personal best
Casual joggers
Walkers and families with strollers
Clearly marked pathways and enthusiastic volunteers will guide participants along the route, with water stations positioned to keep everyone energized.
🎉 Race Day Highlights
Timed 5K race with awards for top finishers
Farm-fresh snacks
Music and a lively finish-line celebration
🌽 Why It Matters
Agricultural education shapes the next generation of farmers, scientists, business leaders, and innovators. By participating in this 5K, you’re not just running—you’re investing in hands-on learning opportunities that cultivate leadership, responsibility, and real-world skills.
Bring your family, invite your friends, and come experience a morning of fitness, fellowship, and farm pride. Together, we can help agriculture continue to grow strong for generations to come. 🌾
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Fri, Aug 07, 2026 at 6:15 PMSee full details
This is event #8 in the Race the Region Racing Series. CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE RACE THE REGION SERIES.
6:15 - 5K Run Starts
6:20 - 1 Mile Dog Walk Starts
7:15 - Awards
NEW FOR THIS YEAR - WE WILL BE HOSTING THE RACE IN CONJUNCTION WITH THE POP-UP BIERGARTEN. AFTER THE RACE, STAY AND ENJOY A CRAFT BEER AND SOME LIVE MUSIC
ALL PARTICIPANTS MUST REGISTER ONLINE. ONLINE REGISTRATION WILL REMAIN OPEN ON RACE DAY UNTIL 6:10 PM.
Pre-Race Packet Pick Up will be available Tuesday August 5th and Wednesday, August 6th from 10AM-6PM, and Thursday, August 7th from 10 AM to 4 PM at the Extra Mile Fitness Company, 3400 Calumet Ave. , Valparaiso, Indiana 46383.
Onsite packet pick up will be available on race day beginning at 5PM
Race starts at 6:15PM Participants must start before 6:20PM. Anyone starting after 6:20PM will be assigned a the gun time for their start and will be subject to disqualification.
"BECAUSE YOUR TRAINING DESERVES A GREAT RACING EXPERIENCE” race features include:
Custom Finishers Award
Timing mats at the Starting Line and Chip Timing for Finish Results
Live results via text and email messaging
All turns will have directional signs
No processing fee for online signup
Race Premium sizes are guaranteed to those registered by July 20th.
Overall and Age Group Awards may be claimed within 14 days following the event at The Extra Mile Fitness Co., 3400 Calumet, Valparaiso, IN 46383. After 14 days all unclaimed awards will be donated or recycled. Participants that do not pick up their race shirt on or before race day are not guaranteed a shirt.
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Sun, Aug 23, 2026 at 9:00 AMSee full details
Like Running or Walking? Love Wine? This race is for you!
Join us on Sunday, August 23, 2026 at 9:00am for an exciting annual event that features the beautiful landscaping and rustic style of Four Corners Winery! Whether you are looking to run, walk or just enjoy the wine this race is a sure thing for a great time and an incredible experience! This race is timed and scored by J3 Timing. Results will be posted at www.J3Timing.com.
Registration Includes:
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T-shirt: Super Soft Ring Spun Cotton t-shirt included!
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Wine Glass: Shatterproof, Collapsible, and Portable!
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Finisher Medal: Doubles as a Wine Stopper!
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Race Bib: Chip timed 5k run/walk
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Results Posted Online
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...and of course, a pour of wine!
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Sat, Sep 12, 2026 at 7:20 AMSee full details
The Valpo Tradition Continues!
Join us for the 48th running of the Popcorn Panic. A community tradition for over four decades, this event has over 1,200 participants annually, running and walking through our tree-lined city streets. In teams or as individuals, you can choose to run the 5 miles or the 5K run or walk.
Team Competition
Participants are encouraged to form teams! Teams must have at least 4 finishers to be eligible for team award. Winner is determined by computer analysis of the overall place of the top 4 team members. Team members are also eligible for individual awards.
Registration
Register by 8/14 to guarantee a shirt size. No shirt option saves $5.
Register early and save! Fee increases to $40 after 8/17. Same day registration $45.
Packet Pick-Up
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Pre-race packet pick-up will be available Wed, Sep 9 - Thu Sep 10 at the Extra Mile Fitness Company, 3400 Calumet Ave., Valparaiso, IN
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Pre-race packet pick-up will be available Fri, Sep 11th at Butterfield Pavilion from 3:30pm - 5:30pm
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Onsite packet pick-up will be available on race morning beginning at 6:30am. Due to the size of this event we strongly encourage you to register ahead of race day and pick your packet up early.
Awards*
Back for 2026 - Valpo Parks is continuing the recognition for the top runners. The male and female winners of the 5-mile race will be crowned champions, each receiving a suite of prestigious prizes:
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Champion crown
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The honor of riding in the Popcorn Fest Parade
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Two complimentary drink tickets for the Popcorn Festival
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A $250 gift card to Extra Mile Fitness Company
Overall & Age Group Awards – Top Overall Male & Top Overall Female, Top Masters Male & Top Masters Female, Top 3 Male and Female in the following age groups: 10 & under, 11-12, 13-14, 15-19, 20-24, 25-29, 30-34, 35-39, 40-44, 45-49, 50-54, 55-59, 60-64, 65-69, 70-74, 75-79, 80+
*Please note, Popcorn Panic has a non-duplication of awards policy. A participant who finishes in the top overall and masters winners in each event do not qualify to win an individual age group plaque.
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Local Clubs & Organizations
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Club
USA Swimming Club. Club Excellence: Bronze. Safe Sport Recognized. 204 members.
[email protected] +1 312-399-7008