Springtime Events in Valparaiso

Springtime in Valparaiso is the place to be for lovers of chocolate and jazz.

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Chocolate Walk

Hosted by Valparaiso Events, the annual Chocolate Walk creates a chocolate lover’s paradise in the city’s downtown.

Participants stroll through the city with official chocolate maps, sampling treats from more than 20 participating businesses and ending with a complimentary champagne reception.

In addition, nearly a dozen other businesses offer sweet deals to everyone. Organizers say they plan the event each April or May, working around other local events already on the books. This year’s event is April 28.

For information about the 2018 schedule and tickets, call Valparaiso Events at 219-464-8332, visit its website at valparaisoevents.com or email info@valparaisoevents.com.

Jazz Fest

Marking its 33rd year in 2018, the Valparaiso University Jazz Festival has grown from a daylong event at its inception to a six-day celebration.

Founder Jeff Brown says it’s one of the largest collegiate festivals of its kind, featuring performances by university student and faculty ensembles, high school musicians and other acclaimed professionals.

Incorporating all jazz genres, the festival has hosted such well-known performers as the Windy City All-Stars, Ernie Watts and Count Basie Orchestra.

Foundational to the festival is the Faculty Jazz Trio. With Brown on drums, Alex Austin on bass and Roger Harris on piano, it’s one of the world’s longest-affiliated chamber jazz ensembles.

The 2018 festival is set for April 2-7. For schedule and ticket information, call the Harre Union at 219-464-5415 or email harre.union@valpo.edu.