Valparaiso Popcorn Festival

The festival began in 1979 as a way to salute resident Orville Redenbacher, the food scientist and businessman associated with the brand of popcorn which bears his name.

Redenbacher lived in Valparaiso when he developed his gourmet popcorn hybrid, and introduced himself in his commercials as hailing from the city.

The first festival was held on September 17, 1979, when the Chamber of Commerce declared "Orville Redenbacher Recognition Day."

As many as 40,000 people attended the initial event, which included a parade, a hot-air balloon, and a "Popcorn Bowl" football game featuring Valparaiso University.

[5] A popcorn festival was held in Brazil, Indiana, which was the birthplace of Orville Redenbacher, for ten years.