More About The Hot Wheels Race of Champions & Food Truck Rally 🏎️
POPCORN PIT STOP
Pre-Popcorn Festival Event:
Friday, September 11, 2026
William E Urschel Pavilion & Central Park Plaza
Hot Wheels Race Registration 4:30 - 5:30
Races: 5:30 - 9:00
Popcorn Festival Automotive Showcase: 4:30 - 9:00
Start your engines for Popcorn Festival weekend at Popcorn Pit Stop!
Hot Wheels Races will take place on a custom Hot Wheels track in the William E. Urschel Pavilion from 4:30 - 9:00.
Bring your own Hot Wheels Ride or purchase on-site for $2
Enter to race for $1 / car
All entry proceeds donated to Porter County Suicide Prevention Task Force.
Food Truck Rally will take place on Lafayette St. through Central Park Plaza.
Popcorn Festival Automotive Showcase will take place on:
Indiana Avenue - Napoleon St. - Uncle Menny’s Original Greek’s Pizzeria
Lafayette St. - Indiana Ave. - Monroe St.
Get ready to wave your checkered flags, enjoy some delicious food at the Food Truck Rally, admire cool rides at the Popcorn Festival Automotive Showcase, & snap a photo at our Popcorn Pit Stop photo op as you get set for the most poppin’ weekend in Valpo!
For additional information and updates:
Click for Details
Pre-Popcorn Festival Event:
Friday, September 11, 2026
William E Urschel Pavilion & Central Park Plaza
Hot Wheels Race Registration 4:30 - 5:30
Races: 5:30 - 9:00
Popcorn Festival Automotive Showcase: 4:30 - 9:00
Start your engines for Popcorn Festival weekend at Popcorn Pit Stop!
Hot Wheels Races will take place on a custom Hot Wheels track in the William E. Urschel Pavilion from 4:30 - 9:00.
Bring your own Hot Wheels Ride or purchase on-site for $2
Enter to race for $1 / car
All entry proceeds donated to Porter County Suicide Prevention Task Force.
Food Truck Rally will take place on Lafayette St. through Central Park Plaza.
Popcorn Festival Automotive Showcase will take place on:
Indiana Avenue - Napoleon St. - Uncle Menny’s Original Greek’s Pizzeria
Lafayette St. - Indiana Ave. - Monroe St.
Get ready to wave your checkered flags, enjoy some delicious food at the Food Truck Rally, admire cool rides at the Popcorn Festival Automotive Showcase, & snap a photo at our Popcorn Pit Stop photo op as you get set for the most poppin’ weekend in Valpo!
For additional information and updates:
Click for Details
Date & Time
September 11, 2026
4:30pm - 9:00pm
Location
Central Park Plaza
68 Lafayette Street
Valparaiso, IN 46383
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More About Valparaiso Events
Valparaiso Events is a non-profit dedicated to enriching our community by delivering distinctive and memorable events.
What started over 46 years ago with the iconic Valparaiso Popcorn Festival has exploded into a thrilling lineup that captivates hearts and sparks connections year-round.
Our mission thrives on the energy of our community, revenue from ticketed events, dynamic business memberships, and the generosity of our amazing sponsors. Together, we create not just events, but experiences that celebrate the spirit of Valparaiso. So come join the fun, and let’s make memories that last a lifetime!
What started over 46 years ago with the iconic Valparaiso Popcorn Festival has exploded into a thrilling lineup that captivates hearts and sparks connections year-round.
Our mission thrives on the energy of our community, revenue from ticketed events, dynamic business memberships, and the generosity of our amazing sponsors. Together, we create not just events, but experiences that celebrate the spirit of Valparaiso. So come join the fun, and let’s make memories that last a lifetime!
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