Coming Soon to a Place Near You
Events taking place in Kokomo, Howard County, and the surrounding area from Jan. 12 and beyond
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COMING SOON
Volunteer Drivers Needed
Meals on Wheels is searching for volunteer drivers to help deliver meals to homebound clients. Deliveries take place five days a week and only involve one hour of your time. These meals are crucial to Meals on Wheels clients. To volunteer, or for more information, call 765-860-3758.
Winter Swim Lessons
Don't miss your chance to sign up for winter swim lessons at the Kokomo Family YMCA! Your child can learn to swim, even during the chilly Indiana winters. This is a perfect time to prepare for summer when everyone is eager to jump in the pool and cool off. Starting lessons in winter is beneficial because it helps your child get accustomed to the water and develop essential swimming skills. By the time summer arrives, they will be ready to dive right in. You can register your child today, either in person at the Y or online: https://operations.daxko.com/Online/5014/ProgramsV2/Home.mvc
Board Game Night
Snacks and board games! Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library on Mon., Jan. 13, from 5:30-8 p.m. for a fun evening playing games like WarMachine, Dice Throne, Marvel United, Marvel Champions, and Riot Quest! This event takes place at the library’s Russiaville branch, 315 Mesa Dr.
Watercolor Wonders
Unleash your inner artist with this step-by-step class where you’ll learn how to create a birch tree painting using watercolors. Get into watercolors with the Kokomo Howard County Public Library on Mon., Jan. 13. The event takes place at the library’s south branch, 1755 E. Center Road, from 6:30-7:30 p.m. and is designed for children ages 8-13. Register for this class by visiting www.khcpl.org and clicking on Events.
United Way Spring Grant Cycle
United Way Serving Howard and Tipton Counties has opened its Spring 2025 Grant Cycle. Non-profits seeking funding for programs are encouraged to visit www.howardandtiptonunitedway.org/grants for more information and to submit a Letter of Intent, spelling out the basics of the programs in need of funding. Letters of Intent must be submitted by Jan. 13 for programs to be considered for funding.
Tzion Community Food Pantry
Congregation Yeshivat Tzion, 614 W. Monroe St., holds a community food pantry every other Tuesday from 1-3 p.m. Bring your own boxes or bags to take home food. The next pantry takes place Tue., Jan. 14. For more information, call 765-438-6858.
Maker Zone
Join the Greentown Public Library, 421 S. Harrison St., on the second Tuesday of each month for crafts and fun in the Maker Zone. The next session takes place Tue., Jan. 14, from 3-4 p.m. after school.
Youth Yoga
Celebrate the winter sun and learn the 12 steps to the iconic Sun Salutation yoga series with the Kokomo Howard County Public Library. Wear comfy clothing and bring a water bottle on Tue., Jan. 14, from 6-7 p.m. to the Jeff Stout Community Center, 650 N. West St., in Russiaville. This event is designed for children ages 6-13.
Diaper Bank
The Indiana Diaper Bank will visit the WIC office in Howard County, 3118 S. Lafountain St., on Tue., Jan. 14. It will have boxes of 200 diapers to distribute to TANF recipients. The diapers will be distributed on a first come, first served, basis. To receive diapers, you must scan the QR code displayed in the local WIC office. For more information, email indianadiaperbankserviceproject@indianadiaperbank.org
Korean Culture Business Training
Make a resolution now to grow your communication skills. The Greater Kokomo Economic Development Alliance and the Community Foundation of Howard County will present a Korean Culture Business Training seminar on Wed., Jan. 15, from 3-4 p.m. at Inventrek Business Park, 700 E. Firmin St. Topics will include cultural norms, body language, professional attire, hierarchy, and subtle non-verbal cues. This is a free event and is open to the public. To register, click here.
Well-Read and Badly-Behaved Book Club
We are well-read and badly-behaved. Are you? Yeah. We see you nodding. And hear you laughing. So, you definitely need to join us at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s south branch, 1755 E. Center Road, on Wed., Jan. 15, from 6-7 p.m.
Healing Through the Creative Process
Want to beat the winter blues? Are you in need of a little art therapy? Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library, 210 N. Union St., on Wed., Jan. 15, from 6-7:30 p.m. Register for this event by visiting www.khcpl.org and clicking on Events.
Miniature Painting
Grab your miniatures and join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library on Wed., Jan. 15, from 6-7:30 p.m. to paint alongside professional miniature painter John Brothers in the Digital Den, 220 N. Union St. He will share tips and tricks to teach you the techniques to make your monsters and characters look amazing. Paint and brushes will be supplied. Bring your own mini and learn how to bring your character to life. Priming your miniatures ahead of time is recommended. Register for this event by visiting www.khcpl.org and clicking on Events.
CrisisReady Howard County
Planning for disasters can seem time intensive and overwhelming. With CrisisReady Howard County, it will be simple. Visit the Century Villa Community Room, 705 N. Meridian St., Greentown, on Thu., Jan. 16, from 6:30-7 p.m. to learn how you can plan for various disasters with four simple steps and receive the tools to make your own plan.
Library Blood Drive
Help save a life. The Kokomo Howard County Public Library, 210 N. Union St., will host a blood drive on Fri., Jan. 17, from noon until 5 p.m. Schedule your blood drive donation appointment today at www.redcrossblood.org.
Cowboy Church
On the third Saturday of each month, Fairview Baptist Church holds Cowboy Church. It’s a combination of Southern Gospel, Bluegrass, Hymns and a lot of serious goofing off. The next Cowboy Church will take place Sat., Jan. 18, at 5 p.m. Fairview Baptist Church is located at 2108 E. Vaile Ave. behind the Kmart Plaza.
Looking for ‘Artivists’
With the theme “The Art That Moved the Movement,” the 2025 edition of Ivy Tech Kokomo’s annual “Doing the Dream” event will include an exhibition of work submitted by a variety of “artivists.” This is the 21st year Ivy Tech Kokomo has presented the annual events to honor the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Artists – emerging and established, student and professional, local and nationwide – are invited to submit work for the exhibition scheduled during “Doing the Dream” activities Feb. 6 and 7 on the Ivy Tech Kokomo Campus. Deadline for submission is Jan. 19. For more information on the art exhibition, contact DeAndra Beard-Ingram at dbeard47@ivytech.edu. The submission form is available here: https://forms.gle/2XgAAaGokDhJd3Y6A
Pictionary for Teens
Join the Greentown Public Library, 421 S. Harrison St., on Thu., Jan. 23, from 3-4 p.m. to unleash your creativity in an exciting session of artistic exploration and fun as you play Pictionary.
Movies at the Library
Join us for a movie and popcorn at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s Russiaville branch, 315 Mesa Dr., on Fri., Jan. 24, from 6-8 p.m. Spend a cozy evening hanging out as we enjoy a movie based on the book “The Dog Who Crossed the Jungle to Find a Home” by Mikael Lindnord.
Viva Las Vista
Step up to the tables for a chance to win incredible prizes while enjoying classic games like Roulette, Craps, Texas Hold’em, Blackjack, Caribbean Poker, and Wheel of Fortune. Bona Vista Services and DSI present Viva Las Vista on Fri., Jan. 24, at the Venue at Brookstone, 1201 W. Alto Road, from 6-9 p.m. Enjoy delicious food and a cash bar, available throughout the night. All proceeds directly support DSI and Bona Vista, making this a fun and impactful way to give back to the community. This event is for adults ages 21 and over. Tickets are available now for $40 each or $70 per couple. Tickets will be $50 at the door. Purchase tickets by visiting www.givebutter.com/VIVA2025
Dungeons & Dragons at KHCPL
Explore the Lost Mine of Phandelver at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s Russiaville branch, 315 Mesa Dr., on Sat., Jan. 25, from 5-8 p.m. After besting the Redbrand bandits plaguing the countryside around Phandalin, Dungeons and Dragons adventurers hear of a mysterious Black Spider running the shots. Join the adventures through the Spider’s Web!
The Year of the Snake
Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library, 210 N. Union St., on Wed., Jan. 29, from 4-5 p.m. for a festive Lunar New Year celebration. This the year of the snake.
Select Student Works 2025
The Indiana University Kokomo Art Gallery presents artworks in an exhibition hand-picked by faculty members to showcase students’ talent and creativity. Artwork created in various media, including digital, drawing, printmaking, painting, and more, will be on display. An opening reception will be held Wed., Jan 29, from 4-6 p.m., and the exhibition will continue through Feb. 20 at 5 p.m. The IUK Art Gallery, 2300 S. Washington St., is open Monday-Thursday from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. and is free and open to the public.
Point in Time
If you are homeless, please participate in the annual Point in Time census on Thu., Jan. 30. By visiting either the Kokomo Rescue Mission, 321 W. Mulberry St., or CAM, 625 N. Union St., you can be counted and receive a care package of supplies, including blankets, toiletries, hats, gloves, and more. The Point in Time survey is confidential and strictly voluntary. Visit the mission between 11:30 a.m. and 6 p.m. or CAM between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. on Thu., Jan. 30.
Kokomo Filmmakers Meet and Greet
Want to meet other local people interested in making movies? Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s Digital Den, 201 N. Union St., on Thu., Jan. 30, from 6-7:30 p.m. to make contacts and learn about filmmaking resources.
Go Red for Women
Celebrate women’s health with some rock ‘n roll on Fri., Jan. 31, at 7 p.m. as the UAW Local 685 Women’s Committee joins with Rhine Hall Event and Entertainment Venue, 507 N. Union St., to Go Red for Women. The evening will feature legendary local band The Time Travelers and dinner provided by The Local Catering Company. Go Red for Women is a passionate, emotional, social initiative designed to empower women to take charge of their heart health. Tickets to this event are $10 or $100 for a sponsor table. This Go Red for Women event is co-sponsored by Apple Tree Realty, Advanced Medical Imaging, and Blye’s Bridal Loft. For more information or to purchase tickets, call Tammy Mohr at 765-419-1957.
Softball Spring Registration
Registration for the Greentown Girls Softball League’s 2025 season is open between Jan. 1-31, 2025. The registration includes 6U, 8U, 10U, and 12U leagues. Register by visiting www.greentownsoftball.com
Western HS Art Display
Stop by the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s Russiaville branch, 315 Mesa Dr., to check out the wonderful pieces created by Western’s many talented high school art students. The display runs throughout the month of January and is accessible during normal library hours.
The Drive
Does your business have what it takes to thrive? Grow your business to new heights with the help and guidance of professionals with years of experience and success. Now is the time to apply for The Drive, a business pitch competition presented by Inventrek Tech Park. The Drive is a competition in which businesses strive for a $10,000 grant. But along the way, business owners will be mentored and supported by other entrepreneurs and specialists. And all it takes is an application. Don’t miss this opportunity. Apply before Feb. 1 by visiting www.greaterkokomo.com/thedrive/
Homeschool Hangout
Homeschoolers are welcome to come to the Kokomo Howard County Public Library, 220 N. Union St., on Wed., Feb. 5, from 12:30-1:30 p.m. to visit and socialize while engaging in fun STEM games and activities. This event is for children ages 3-13.
Retirement Planning for All Ages
Everyone needs to enjoy financial wellness. Join the Greentown Public Library, 421 S. Harrison St., on Thu., Feb. 6, from 6-7 p.m. as local attorney and financial advisor Eric Grzegorski offers retirement planning for all ages
Doing the Dream
Renowned poet and social activist Sonia Sanchez will serve as keynote speaker for Ivy Tech Community College Kokomo’s 2025 “Doing the Dream” events, designed to honor the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. The event is set for Feb. 6-7 and employs the theme “The Art That Moved the Movement.” The traditional community banquet will take place Thu., Feb. 6, in Hingst Hall on the Ivy Tech Kokomo Campus, 1815 E. Morgan St. Tickets are $60 each and go on sale Jan. 8 at link.ivytech.edu/2025DoingtheDream. Ticket sales end Jan. 30 or when sold out. All proceeds support the Ivy Tech Kokomo “Doing the Dream” Diversity Scholarship. On Friday, Feb. 7, Ms. Sanchez will participate in an “artivism” workshop with Ivy Tech students from around the state as well as a convocation for Ivy Tech Kokomo faculty, staff, and students.
Yarn: A Fiber Arts Group
Bring your crochet, knitting, needlework, or any fiber arts project and spend time with other crafters at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library, 210 N. Union St., on Fri., Feb. 7, from noon until 1:30 p.m. This program is for those teens and adults who have some prior experience as it will be conducted without instructors.
Single Mingle Meet a Friend
Widows' Purse Corp is seeking volunteers for its first quarter fundraiser, Single Mingle Meet a Friend, taking place Fri., Feb. 7, 2025, at 6 p.m. at Rhine Hall Entertainment and Event Venue 507 N. Union St. Widows’ Purse is seeking courageous individuals willing to auction their skills at the event. If you are a man skilled in fixing cars and house-related issues, knows how to “do manly stuff,” is really good at telling jokes, and is a delight to spend time with, we want to hear from you! If you are a woman who cooks “better than momma,” easily passes the white-glove cleaning inspection, or does laundry like no other, we want to hear from you! We want men and women who would be courageous to offer your skills! We want to auction YOU! Are you brave enough? If you possess exceptional talents or attributes, we encourage you to participate. Interested individuals should contact Widows’ Purse by emailing widowspurse1@gmail.com or by calling 765-271-4911 for further information and screening, prioritizing safety. This opportunity may lead to meaningful connections or friendships.
Chili Cook-Off
The Russiaville AMVETS Post 27 will hold its annual Chili Cook-Off Sat., Feb. 8, from 3-7 p.m. Registration for this event is now open to the public. Ever wondered if your chili stacks up against the best? Do you have a desire to debate whether macaroni or beans belong in chili? Do you just want to eat some darn good chili? You can enter a crockpot of your best chili into the competition for just $10. Or you can eat and judge for yourself. A $10 ticket ($5 for kids) gets you a pass to an all-you-can-eat evening of chili fun! This year, AMVETS is offering cash prizes for the top two finishers: $125 for first place and $100 for second. The event takes place at the Jeff Stout Community Center, 650 N. West St., Russiaville. All proceeds from this event will go toward counseling services for veterans. To register, or for more information, visit www.amvetspost27.org or call 765-461-3096.
NERF Wars
Get ready to battle for NERF supremacy on Mon., Feb. 10, as the Greentown Public Library, 421 S. Harrison St., transforms into warzone. Teens are invited to enjoy hot dogs and chips along with skirmishes with NERF guns provided by the library from 4:30-6 p.m. Plus, you’ll have the chance to win a NERF gun to take home in a special drawing. This event is limited to 30 participants, and registration is required. Register by calling 765-628-3534.
Marty Myers Legacy Conference
Professional Firefighters of Kokomo Local 396 will hold the inaugural Marty Myers Legacy Conference on Sat., Feb. 15, from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m. at Kokomo High School, 2501 S. Berkley Road. Join them for a day filled with inspiration, learning, and networking. Bobby Eckert of Eckert Fire Tactics with present Urban Engine Operations from 8 a.m. until noon. Robert James of Capitol Fire Training LLC will present Urban Forcible Entry from 1-5 p.m. All proceeds will benefit the Marty Myers Scholarship Fund. Tickets are $60 and can be obtained by clicking here.
Soup and Sound
The Eastern High School cafeteria will be filled with music on Sat., Feb. 22, as Keyton Romero performs at a fundraising event from 6-8 p.m. Keyton enchants audiences with her distinctive mix of country and rock and roll. Don’t miss her powerful, dynamic vocals at the Soup and Sound Fundraiser. The library will serve soup, salad, bread, drinks, and dessert. Freewill donations are welcome. Registration is required. Call 765-628-3534 to reserve your seat!
Photography Exhibition
The Greentown Public Library, 421 S. Harrison St., will feature an exhibition showcasing the photography of local resident Terry Steiner. The exhibition will take place from March 1-8 in the library’s community room. Steiner brings 25 years of experience in capturing the essence of life through his lens.
Mardi Gras Party
The Greentown Public Library, 421 S. Harrison St., invites teens to enjoy an afternoon filled with snacks, crafts, and endless fun with a Mardi Gras theme on Tue., March 4, from 3-4 p.m.
Marshmallow Madness
Get ready for a week-long celebration at the Greentown Public Library, 421 S. Harrison St., from April 14-17. The library will celebrate marshmallows with fluffy, sweet, and delightful activities. Additional details will be provided in coming weeks.
Laser Tag at the Library
Gather your friends and get ready to dominate the competition at the Greentown Public Library, 421 S. Harrison St., as it hosts an evening of Laser Tag! Navigate the library aisles, and battle it out among the shelves on Fri., April 25, from 6-8 p.m. All equipment will be provided, and pizza and drinks will be served. The event is open to tweens and teens ages 12-18. Space is limited. Four sessions lasting 30 minutes each will be conducted, and no more than 20 participants will be allowed to participate in each session. There may be opportunities to compete in more than one session, depending on participation. Register in advance by calling 765-628-3534.