Coming Soon to a Place Near You

Events taking place in Kokomo, Howard County, and the surrounding area from March 2, 2025, and beyond

This article is brought to you by Freedom Financial.

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

KUO Needs Volunteers

Kokomo Urban Outreach is searching for volunteers to provide after-school homework help on Mondays, Thursdays, and/or Fridays from 4-6 p.m. This much-needed support can help hold students accountable with their homework. Experience in navigating grade-monitoring websites is preferred but not required. To volunteer, call 765-457-1983.

Tuskegee Exhibit at Artworks

The national traveling exhibition “Tuskegee Airmen: America’s Freedom Flyers” is on display at the Kokomo Art Association’s Artworks Gallery, 210 N. Main St. The exhibition will be open for free exhibition tours to community groups, churches, and schools, with educational curriculum and activity packets available during the tour. Artworks Gallery is open Mon.-Sat. from noon until 4 p.m. Additional exhibition tour times can be made possible by special arrangement. To schedule a tour, contact Curator/Coordinator Robin Williams at 317-213-5278 or by emailing curator@nolaworld.org.

Iditarod Watch Party

Are you curious about Alaska, the 49th state? Is it cold in Alaska? Do people live in igloos? What is the Iditarod? Learn the answers to these questions and more as the Kokomo Howard County Public Library holds an Iditarod Watch Party on Sun., March 2, from 5:30-6:30 p.m. This event takes place at the library’s Russiaville branch, 315 Mesa Dr.

Bona Vista Community Tour

Join Developmental Services Inc. for a Community Tour of Bona Vista on Mon., March 3, from 8:15-9:15 a.m. Learn more about DSI’s service while enjoying light refreshments and snacks. This free event takes place at Bona Vista at the Crossing, 1221 S. Plate St. For more information or to RSVP, email hdelrymple@dsiservices.org.

Read Across America: Birthdays

Celebrate birthdays with stories, songs, a craft, and cake at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library on Mon., March 3, from 10-11 a.m. This event is designed for children ages 0-5 and takes place at the library’s Russiaville branch, 315 Mesa Dr.

Read Across America: Story Seekers

Bring your curiosity and love for books to the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s south branch, 1755 E. Center Road, and celebrate National Read Across America Day. This event takes place on Mon., March 3, from 6-7 p.m. Come along for a scavenger hunt, book tasting, and crafting fun!

Kaleidoscope of Gardening

The Howard County Master Gardeners will present A Kaleidoscope of Gardening on Sat., March 15, from 8:45 a.m. until 3 p.m. at the Howard County Fairgrounds in Greentown. Join them to learn more about the wonderful world of gardening. Steve Sass and Amanda Smith will present the Ecology of Gardening, while Cinda Gustafson talks about Bees and Whitney Yoerger talks about Birds. Sass and Smith return to talk about Butterflies and Moths, while Karin Anderson will discuss Native Plants. This adults-only event is $35 per person. Registration and payment are due by March 3. For more information, call the Howard County Extension Office at 765-456-2313. Master Gardeners will be eligible for five hours of education time. Those needing accommodations to attend should contact Mathias Ingle at 765-456-2313 or rmingle@purdue.edu

Weather Service Student Volunteers

The National Weather Service in Indianapolis is seeking summer student volunteers who want to gain hands-on experience in meteorology and weather operations. This unique opportunity allows students to deepen their understanding of weather service functions while working on real-world projects that support the service’s mission. Volunteers must be a current undergraduate or graduate student, majoring in meteorology or a closely related field. They must be a U.S. citizen and be able to work eight to 10 hours a week for 10-12 weeks. They must be capable of working at home or live within the Indianapolis warning area. The deadline to apply is March 3. To apply, visit https://forms/gle/wF8Kg9tmL3JvxxZi7

Pint-Size Chef

The Kokomo Parks and Recreation Department will once again hold its Pint-Size Chef program. The spring session runs on Tuesdays from April 8 through May 13. Classes will be held from 5:15-6:15 p.m. for children ages 5-8 and from 6:45-7:45 p.m. for children ages 9-12. The cost is $30 per child, and spaces are limited to just 12 participants per class. Registration begins March 3 at the KPRD office in Highland Park. For more information, call 765-456-7275.

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., March 4. For more information, call 765-438-6858.

Art by Ainsley’s Angels

The Kokomo Art Association is proud to present Art by Ainsley’s Angels, an exhibition that will run from March 4-29 at the Artworks Gallery, 210 N. Main St. All art on exhibit has been created by members of Ainsley’s Angels of America. A reception for the artists will take place Fri., March 7, from 5:30-8 p.m. Also, a special auction of these artists’ works will take place on Sat., March 29, from 3-5 p.m. Proceeds from this event will benefit Ainsley’s Angels in North Central Indiana and the Kokomo Art Association. Light refreshments will be served. Regular gallery hours are Monday through Saturday from 12-4 p.m.

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.

Mardi Gras Magic

Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library on Tue., March 4, from 4-5 p.m. on a joyful journey through the sights, sounds, and flavors of Mardi Gras! This event takes place at the library’s main branch, 210 N. Union St., and is designed for children ages 8-13.

Energizing Chair Yoga

Spring is just around the corner, and chair yoga is a great way to help get ready for more movement. Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library on Tue., March 4, from 6-7 p.m. for this highly accessible yoga class. This event takes place at the Jeff Stout Community Center, 650 N. West St., Russiaville.

Homeschool Hangout

All homeschoolers are welcome to visit and socialize as well as engage in fun STEM games and activities! The Kokomo Howard County Public Library welcomes all homeschoolers, ages 3-13, on Wed., March 5, from 12:30-1:30 p.m. at the library’s main branch, 210 N. Union St.

Spring into Tech Adult Technology Classes

Spring into tech by learning from Kokomo experts on the basics of computers, smart phones, scam prevention, and cyber security. Thanks to Community First Bank and Elsewhen Technology, the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s Digital Den, 201 N. Union St., will hold this adult technology class on Wed., March 5, from 3-4:30 p.m. Register by visiting www.khcpl.org and clicking on Events.

AI Unlocked

Unleash your understanding of Artificial Intelligence (AI), and put it to good use with the Carver Community Center, 1030 N. Purdum St. This exciting event will allow you to dive deep into the world of artificial intelligence. Learn how AI is shaping our future and how you can harness its power for good. Whether you're a beginner or an expert, this event is perfect for anyone curious about AI and its potential impact. Don't miss out on this opportunity to unlock your AI knowledge and make a difference! This course takes place on March 5 and March 19, beginning at 5:30 p.m. Each 90-minute session includes an introduction to generative AI, how it works, and how it can be applied in the real world. Learn prompt engineering basics and engage in a question-and-answer session. This course is available to adults ages 18 and up. The cost of this course, presented by The People Project Corp., is $26. Register by clicking here.

Blind Tiger Comedy Open Mic

The Blind Tiger Comedy Open Mic show takes place on the first Wednesday of each month at the Elbow Room, 1004 N. Washington St. The next open mic night will be held on March 5. This event is free to attend, and you are welcome to try your hand at comedy.

Story Art

Using picture books as inspiration, help the Kokomo Howard County Public Library create art using a variety of mediums. This event takes place at the library’s Russiaville branch, 315 Mesa Dr., on Thu., March 6, from 10-10:45 a.m. This event is designed for children ages 2 and up.

Oreo Taste Test Challenge

The Kokomo Howard County Public Library will celebrate National Oreo Cookie Day with a taste test challenge with its Nifty Over Fifty friends! If you are over 50 years old, this fun program is for you. Visit the library’s south branch, 1755 E. Center Road, on Thu., March 6, from 2-3 p.m. for some Oreo fun!

High School Exhibition

Come show support for the talent and creativity of area high school juniors and seniors in the 27th Annual High School Exhibition, taking place at the IU Kokomo Art Gallery, 2300 S. Washington St. Seven schools from the surrounding area will be participating this year. The artworks on display will include a variety of different media ranging from: drawing, painting, ceramics, mixed media and much more. The exhibition will be displayed from March 6 – April 2. The reception for this exhibition takes place Wed., March 12 from 4-6 p.m., and the presentation of awards will begin at 5 p.m., tentatively. Gallery hours are from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Thursday and is always free and open to the public.

Community Foundation Grants

The first grant cycle of the year is underway! Any nonprofit in Howard, Clinton, or Carroll County is welcome to submit a grant application by Thursday, March 6. For more information on the Community Foundation Serving Howard, Clinton, and Carroll Counties’ grant programs and to access the application portal, visit www.cfhoward.org/grants. Note that any first-time applicants must contact the Foundation prior to submitting a proposal. Stop by their office at 215 W. Sycamore St., in Kokomo, or call 765-454-7298 to speak to Emerald about your plans.

International Women’s Day

Visit the Kokomo Howard County Public Library at any of its locations, any time on Fri., March 7, for passive activities to celebrate International Women’s Day.

Crunch Time: Cereal Taste-Off

Which cereal deserves a spot on breakfast tables across the nation? Celebrate National Cereal Day by sampling a variety of cereals to decide which flavor reigns supreme! The Kokomo Howard County Public Library will hold a cereal taste-off at its south branch, 1755 E. Center Road., on Fri., March 7, from 4-5 p.m. This event is designed for all ages.

Recycled Art Exhibition

The Kokomo Art Association is putting out the call to artists for a juried Recycled Art Exhibition. Applications can be found and submitted at www.kaaonline.org . Up to three pieces of art may but submitted by each artist. Read the submission criteria closely. Submission fee is $25. Prizes will be given for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place, along with a People’s Choice award. Drop off and pick of artwork will be completed in person. No shipping. The exhibition will run from March 7 until April 25. An opening reception will be held on March 7 from 5:30-8 p.m., and an awards reception will be held on April 4 from 5:30-8 p.m. The exhibition will be housed at the Artworks Gallery, 210 N. Main St. For questions, email kokomoartonmain@gmail.com .

First Friday: Hoop It Up

Dribble it, pass it, and dunk it with the Kokomo BobKats at First Friday in downtown Kokomo from 5:30-8 p.m. on Fri., March 7. This is a free, arts-based, open house tour of beautiful downtown Kokomo, featuring unique monthly themes. Visitors to the downtown area during the event will find discounts and activities at local businesses, live music, public art, family-friendly activities, and more. Visit www.firstfridaykokomo.com for additional information.

Art in Bloom

On March 7, friends of Acacia Academy will gather for an evening of wonder and delight for a great cause at New Hope Church, 346 S, CR 00 EW. Highlights of the evening will include special music, a performance of Alice in Wonderland by Acacia’s drama club, a delicious meal complete with decadent desserts, a live auction featuring amazing student projects and presentations, and many colorful surprises. This event runs from 6-8 p.m., and pre-registration and ticket purchase are required to attend. Recommended attire is dignified whimsical. All funds raised will go towards direct classroom education and a few enrichment activities that will cultivate character, faith, and knowledge in Acacia students. For tickets and additional information, visit https://cbo.io/bidapp/index.php?slug=artinbloom.

Kokomo Women’s Expo

Club Kokomo Roadrunners and Palmer’s Jewelry are teaming up to present the Kokomo Women’s Expo, supporting the Howard County Family Service Association’s Domestic Violence Shelter, on Sat., March 8, from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. This event takes place at Grace United Methodist Church, 219 W. Mulberry St. Enjoy inspiration, wellness, art, and fun. The day will include a free yoga class with intention at 9:15 a.m., and the speaker series begins at 9:30 a.m. Shop local, women-owned businesses at 11 a.m., and witness the presentation of the 2025 SHEro Award at noon. At 1:30 p.m. the Be a SHEro 5K Run/Walk takes place (registration required). An Art Experience with America Carillo takes place at 3 p.m., and the International Women’s Day Keynote takes place at 4 p.m. The expo wraps up with Handbag BINGO at 6 p.m. (ticket required). Visit the 2025 Kokomo Women’s Expo on Facebook for additional information.

Wrangler and Friends

Kindness and love create lasting relationships. Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library as Wrangler visits the library’s main branch, 210 N. Union St., for story time and hears a story about "a little horse who did a very big thing!" This event takes place Sat., March 8, from 10-11 a.m.

Picture This!

With just a few simple supplies, you can create a gorgeous picture frame that’s perfect for displaying your favorite photo, artwork, or inspirational quote. Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library on Sat., March 8, from 1-3 p.m. This event takes place at the library’s south branch, 1755 E. Center Road. Register by visiting www.khcpl.org and clicking on Events.

Ready, Set, Dance

It’s a Back to the ‘80s Party at Rhine Hall, and you’re invited! Join the Literacy Coalition of Howard County as it offers an evening of dancing and fun that will make you relive the days of Aqua-Net, banana clips, denim jackets, and layered Polo shirts with popped collars. Ready, Set, Dance takes place Sat., March 8, at Rhine Hall, 507 N. Union St. Doors open at 7 p.m., and the dance party starts at 8 p.m., featuring DJ Odom. Tickets are $25 each or $40 per couple and can be obtained by visiting www.literacycoalition.com/event. For more information, call 765-450-8532 or email litco34@gmail.com.

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., March 11, from 3-4 p.m. after school.

Celebration of Champions

Registration is open now for the sixth annual Celebration of Champions, brought to you by the Fellowship of Christian Athletes. The event takes place Thu., March 13, beginning at 6:30 p.m. at Cross America in Kokomo, 840 Daniel Dr. The event will feature a special evening of ministry with former Major League Baseball chaplain Tom Roy. For more information and to reserve the event’s limited seats, visit www.mcindianafca.org/champions .

Breakfast and BINGO

The Greentown Public Library, 421 S. Harrison St., holds a morning of breakfast and BINGO on the second Friday of each month. Play for big prizes on Fri., March 14, from 9-10 a.m.

Empty Bowl for KUO

The annual Empty Bowl fundraiser for Kokomo Urban Outreach (KUO) will take place Fri., March 14, at Main Street United Methodist Church, 830 S. Main St. This free-will donation event takes place from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m. for lunch and from 4-6:30 p.m. for dinner and includes live music from Keyton Romero. The bowl auction takes place during dinner, during which attendees will have a chance to vote for and purchase their favorite bowls, decorated by local celebrities. Those in attendance also will be able to select their own bowl to take home with them, created by one of the many KUO UP Program kids.

YMCA Cornhole Tournament

Cornhole has returned to the Kokomo Family YMCA! A cornhole tournament will be held in the YMCA Community Room on Sat., March 15, beginning at 11 a.m. This is a double-elimination tournament where the best teams will earn bragging rights and a cash prize. Register for this event by visiting https://bit.ly/3WVjmtt

Trash to Treasure

The Kokomo Art Association will host Vivian Bennett as she offers a Trash to Treasure Junk Journal Workshop on Sat., March 15. Vivian will teach participants how to make a junk journal from recycled, repurposed, and sometimes new materials, from start to finish. Once completed, the one-of-a-kind journal is suitable for personal use or to give as a gift. The class runs from noon until 4 p.m. and costs $62.50 which includes all materials. This workshop takes place at Artworks Gallery, 210 N. Main St. Register by visiting www.kaaonline.org or in person at Artworks.

Meditation Mondays

Experience change, growth, and vitality through meditation with Raine and Sage Healing Center, 901 S. Courtland Ave. Sessions take place every first and third Monday of the month from 10-10:45 a.m. and are free to all. The next session takes place on Mon., March 17.

Grocery BINGO

Grocery BINGO returns to the Kokomo Parks and Recreation Department! This event will take place on Wed., March 26, from 6-8 p.m. at Rodgers Pavilion in Highland Park. Admission is $5 at the door. Play for a chance to win groceries and other household items.

Artwork Photography Workshop

The IU Kokomo Art Gallery, 2300 S. Washington St, will host a three-hour Artwork Photography Workshop on April 4 from 2:30-5:30 p.m. The workshop will feature methods on setting up artwork and cameras, lighting tactics, and how to work with editing software to transform photography into professional imagery. This is a free workshop, but registration is required by March 26. To register, visit www.go.iu.edu/8shN. For more information, email gallery2@iu.edu.

Solidarity Scholarship Program

The Solidarity Scholarship portal is now open! Investing in your future just got easier! The Solidarity Scholarship Portal offers opportunities to help fund your education. Whether heading to college, trade school, or continuing your studies, Solidarity Community Federal Credit Union believes in supporting your dreams. Applications are due by midnight on March 31. Solidarity will award eight scholarships of $2,000 each, including one specifically designated for a trade school applicant. More than one trade school student can win. For questions, please email scholarships@solfcu.org. Click here to check eligibility and apply.

Howard County Skywarn

The National Weather Service, in conjunction with the Kokomo Amateur Radio Club and the Howard County Department of Emergency Management, will offer a Howard County Skywarn severe weather seminar on Sat., April 5, from 1-3 p.m. Learn about tornado and thunderstorm behavior, hail, and flooding. This free training seminar will take place at the Eastern Howard Performing Arts Center, 421 S. Harrison St., Greentown.

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.

Kokomo Home Show

The Kokomo Home Show will take place on April 25-27 at the Markland Mall. The event runs from 10 a.m. until 7 p.m. on Fri., April 25, and Sat., April 26, and from noon until 5 p.m. on Sun., April 27.

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.

YMCA Day Camp

Registration for the Summer 2025 YMCA Day Camp will begin Thu., May 1. This registration is a bit later than usual, but make sure to save the date! More information will become available in coming weeks.

Chocolate Celebration

The 23rd annual Samaritan Caregivers Chocolate Celebration will take place on Fri., May 2, from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. at One Church, 2734 S. Washington St. Tickets will be 5 for $20. This event’s main sponsor is First Farmers Bank and Trust, and additional sponsorships are available. For additional information, contact Samaritan Caregivers through its Facebook page.

Spring Craft Show

A Spring Craft Show will take place at the UAW Local 685 Union Hall, 929 E. Hoffer St., on May 10, from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. Free admission. There will be more than 50 vendors and food trucks on site for the event.

KPD 5K

On May 17, the Kokomo Police Department will hold its inaugural KPD 5K Run. Proceeds from this community event will benefit the KPD Training Center, the Fraternal Order of Police, and Cops for Kidz. For additional information, call Capt. Zach Rodman at 765-456-7309 or Lt. Charlie Fourkiller at 765-456-7393. Sign up for this event by clicking here.

Ignite Your Future Camp

Indiana University Kokomo will host Ignite Your Future Camp on June 9-12, and it is looking for alumni volunteers willing to help inspire middle schoolers through hands-on career exploration, self-awareness, and college readiness activities. Those interested should contact Brandi Keith at bdkeith@iu.edu or Cheryl Schlemmer at cashlem@iu.edu .

Greentown Glass Festival

The Greentown Main Street Association announces the Greentown Glass Festival, scheduled for June 14, from 10 a.m. until 10 p.m. in downtown Greentown. The event is co-sponsored by First Farmers Bank and Trust. Enjoy nine restaurants within one block of downtown, along with food and craft vendors, a kid zone, a parade, local bands in concert, a car show, and more. Vendor space is available now. The 10x10 spaces are $25 each. For more information, email krystaltategmsa@gmail.com or visit www.greentownindiana.org/greentown-glass-festival .