Coming Soon to a Place Near You

Events taking place in Kokomo, Howard County, and the surrounding area from Feb. 23, 2025, and beyond

This article is brought to you by the Kokomo Family YMCA. CORNHOLE AT THE Y IS BACK! Circle March 15th on your calendars for the YMCA Cornhole Tournament! This exhilarating, one-day event is design for players to compete in a thrilling double-elimination format, where the best teams will earn bragging rights and a cash prize. Team up with your favorite partner—whether it's a friend, family member, or co-worker—and get ready to toss those bags at the Downtown Y. Are you ready to throw down at the tournament of the season? Secure your spot now by registering today! Spaces are limited, so secure your spot now: https://bit.ly/3WVjmtt

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.

College Goal Sunday

Get free help filing your FAFSA! Come to College Goal Sunday to get help from financial aid professionals on Sun., Feb. 23, at 2 p.m. at the Indiana University Kokomo Library, 2300 S. Washington St. Please bring your Federal Student Aid ID (and your parents’ FSAID as well), your 2023 tax and income information, and a list of schools that should receive your FAFSA. For questions and more information, call 765-455-9216.

Park Band Winter Concert

The Kokomo Park Band will present its winter concert, sponsored by Comprehensive Planning Corp., on Sun., Feb. 23, from 3-4:45 p.m. at the Kokomo High School Auditorium, 2501 S. Berkley Road. The concert will feature trombonist John Huntoon on “Slidin’ Down the Mississippi” and the Retired Rum-Runners Traditional Jazz Band. Along with festive music from the French Quarter of New Orleans, the band will perform major works consisting of two collections based on Cajun folk music by composer Frank Ticheli. At intermission, the IU Kokomo Flute Choir will perform New Orleans-themed music. Beads and Mardi Gras cookies will be available for the audience. Admission is free, but folks are encouraged to bring toiletry items, including body wash, deodorant, and bathroom tissue, for C.A.M.

Farmers Market Call-Out

The Kokomo Downtown Farmers Market will hold a call-out for new vendors on Tue., Feb. 23 at 5:30 p.m. The call-out will take place in the Shared Drive Room at Inventrek, 700 E. Firmin St. For more information, visit www.kokomofarmersmarket.com .

All Shook Up Elvis Party

Relive some rock ‘n roll magic with Elvis-themed trivia, BINGO, and snacks with the Kokomo Howard County Public Library. Listen to Elvis’ music and have fun as you keep the legend alive. This event takes place on Tue., Feb. 25, from 2:30-4:30 p.m. at the library’s south branch, 1755 E. Center Road.

Let’s Line Dance with Jan!

Have fun learning different dance steps and then put them all together with the Kokomo Howard County Public Library. No experience necessary. Open-heeled shoes are not recommended. This event takes place Tue., Feb. 25, from 6-7 p.m. at the Jeff Stout Community Center, 650 N. West St., Russiaville.

Let’s Build!

There are so many things that can be built with LEGOs. Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library for some free building and challenges. Use your imagination to create something cool on Thu., Feb. 27, from 4:30-5:30 p.m. at the library’s Russiaville branch, 315 Mesa Dr.

Kokomo Filmmakers Movie Makeup Class

Want to learn how to do makeup for movies? Makeup artist Draven Marie will visit the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s Digital Den, 210 N. Union St., on Thu., Feb. 27, from 6-8 p.m. to teach the basics. Register for this class by visiting www.khcpl.org and clicking on Events.

Pages Across Kokomo

Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library and the Indiana University Kokomo Library for Pages Across Kokomo, a community-wide book discussion. Participants will discuss “Nigeria Jones,” by Ibi Zoboi. This event takes place on Fri., Feb. 28, at IU Kokomo’s Gathering Place, 2300 S. Washington St., from 2-3 p.m.

African American Read-In

Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library on Fri., Feb. 28, from 4-5 p.m. as it takes part in a national celebration of African American contributions to our nation’s literary heritage. Take part in readings, activities, crafts, and more at the library’s main branch, 210 N. Union St. Special guest will be Hoosier children’s author Jalysa King.

KPRD PJ Party

The Kokomo Parks and Recreation Department will hold a PJ Party on Fri., Feb. 28, from 7-9 p.m. The cost is $20 per child. There will be a viewing of The Secret Life of Pets, and there will be crafts and snacks. Drop-off no earlier than 6:45 p.m. This event is designed for children ages 5-11. All participants must be potty trained. To register, visit the park office in Highland Park or call 765-456-7275.

Black History Month Dance Expo

Celebrate African culture’s influence on dance in American throughout the years as the Black History Month Dance Expo comes to Rhine Hall Entertainment and Event Venue on Fri., Feb. 28. The expo is held in partnership with Dequane “Flow” Jackson. Doors open at 7:30 p.m., and the show starts at 8 p.m. Tickets are available now for $40 each. There will be a presentation of the Brandon White Memorial Scholarship during the event.

KPRD Softball

Registration for the Kokomo Parks and Recreation Department’s softball leagues – men’s, women’s, and co-ed – will close on Fri., Feb. 28. League organizational meetings will take place on Tue., March 4, at 6:30 p.m. in Rodgers Pavilion at Highland Park. League play begins April 21. Diamond practice books will open and schedule pick-up information will be provided at the organizational meetings. Teams will be registered on a first come, first served basis. League sizes are limited. For more information, visit the Parks Department page at www.cityofkokomo.org .

Dance Intensive

Level up your dance skills with Dequane “Flow” Jackson at his incredible Dance Intensive on March 1 at Rhine Hall in Kokomo. There will be hands-on instruction and expert guidance as participants explore diverse dance styles. There will be two sessions from which to choose or just join both! The morning session runs from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m. at a cost of $35 per person. The afternoon session runs from 2-6 p.m. at a cost of $45 per person. An all-day pass is just $70. No experience is needed. All dancers are welcome. Get your tickets now by visiting www.rhinehallevents.com.

Line Dancing Class

Join the next Line Dancing Class with Tina Robinson at the Carver Community Center, 1030 N. Purdum St. These one-hour classes take place on the first Saturday of each month, beginning at 10 a.m. The next class will take place Sat., March 1. Invite your friends and sign up today! Call 765-457-9318 or email kokomocarver@gmail.com to register.

Elephant and Piggie Party

Celebrate Elephant and Piggie, the lovable characters from Mo Willems’ best-selling book series, on National Pig Day, Sat., March 1, from noon until 1 p.m. at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s main branch, 210 N. Union St. This event is for children ages 0-13.

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.

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.

KAA Photo Show

The Kokomo Art Association will hold its 2025 Photo Show from March 5-29. Drop-off for works is March 1 from noon until 3:30 p.m. The show takes place at the Kokomo Art Center, 525 W. Ricketts St. For more information, contact Cheryl at kokomoartassociation2014@gmail.com .

Harmony of Heritage

The Kokomo Symphony Orchestra will perform its Harmony of Heritage concert on Sat., March 1, at 7 p.m. in Havens Auditorium on the Indiana University Kokomo campus, 2300 S. Washington St. This meaningful event will celebrate Black music in history and give singers an opportunity to perform alongside the orchestra, showcasing the power of music in bringing the community together. Tickets are available now by visiting www.kokomosymphony.com/concerts-events/

General Scholarships Deadline Nears

High school seniors! Time is running out to submit your General Scholarships Application. This application allows you to fill out one form to match with many of the scholarship for which you may qualify. Visit www.cfhoward.org/new-applicants to access the application portal and submit application by March 1.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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: solfcu.org/financial-wellness/solidarity-scholarship-portal/

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.

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.

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.

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 .

Kokomo’s Funniest Comedian

Calling all comedians! Rhine Hall Entertainment and Event Venue will hold its second annual Kokomo’s Funniest Comedian competition every Friday evening in September, with a grand finale taking place Oct. 3. Registration is open now for comedians seeking to compete. Registration deadline is July 28. Submit your three-minute performance video to rhinehall.gary@gmail.com. Each week, a panel of judges will select a winner from a round of competition who will advance to the finals. Those in attendance also have a chance to advance a comedian through people’s choice voting. The winning comedian will receive a $500 cash prize, a trophy, and paying gigs at an upcoming Rhine Hall comedy showcase and as the host of the 2026 competition.