What's Happening This Week?
Events taking place in Kokomo and Howard County from July 9-15 and beyond
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TODAY
Kokomo Jackrabbits
The Kokomo Jackrabbits will play a home game vs. the Battle Creek Cattle Jacks on Sun., July 9, at Kokomo Municipal Stadium. Game time is 5:05 p.m.; For tickets, call 457-5000 or visit www.kokomojackrabbits.com.
Howard County Fair
The Howard County Fair takes place from Sun., July 9, to Sat., July 15. Visit www.howardcountyfair.com for more information, and watch for advance coverage of the fair from the Kokomo Lantern this week at www.kokomolantern.substack.com or www.kokomolantern.com.
MONDAY
New Baby Bunch
Do you have a new bundle of joy? Or do you feel like you’re in the trenches of parenting? Join the New Baby Bunch for friendship, support, and to share your parenting journey with other caregivers. The group meets each Monday from 9:30-11 a.m. at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s south branch, 1755 E. Center Road. The next meeting is Mon., July 10. Caregivers with a baby ages birth to 12 months are welcome to participate. Older siblings are welcome to join also.
Go Wild Outside
Bring the kids for some outside fun in the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s Nature Explore Outdoor Classroom at the Russiaville branch, 315 Mesa Dr. The event takes place on Mon., July 10, from 10 a.m. until noon. Designed for children ages 2 and up.
Sew Much
Teens and adults can drop in to learn sewing or quilting basics or get help with their projects at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s Sew Much event on Mon., July 10, from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. and from 4-7 p.m. Sewing machines provided. This event takes place at the library’s south branch, 1755 E. Center Road.
Friendship Jewelry Extravaganza
Visit the Kokomo Howard County Public Library on Mon., July 10, from noon until 2 p.m. to create your own friendship bracelets for your besties. This event takes place at the library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St.
Ice Cream at the Library
Visit the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St., on Mon., July 10, from 2-4 p.m. as Home Team Ice Cream sets up shop in the library parking lot. The first 100 patrons to stop by the summer reading program prize desk inside the library will receive a coupon for a free ice cream.
Swim Lessons at Kokomo Beach
The Kokomo Parks and Recreation Department will hold swim lessons at Kokomo Beach, with Session 3 taking place July 17-27. Registration begins July 10. These two-week sessions run Monday through Thursday. Cost is $15 per session. Class times are 9-9:30 a.m. and 9:45-10:15 a.m. Classes are designed for children ages 6 months and up. All registrations must be submitted and paid for at Kokomo Beach. The forms are available there, at the KPRD park office in Highland Park, or online at www.cityofkokomo.org.
Summer Slam
Bridges Outreach presents Summer Slam, a daily program for students in grades 6-12 from any school. Summer Slam will meet every Monday through Friday from noon to 2:30 p.m. at the Carver Community Center, 1030 N. Purdum St. Enjoy games, snacks, and a field trip every Friday through July 14. For additional information, call 765-452-5723.
Recreation Adventure Program
The Kokomo Parks and Recreation Department will hold its daily Adventure Program, Mondays through Fridays from 12-5 p.m. at Highland Park, Mohr Park, and Bon Air Park. Supervisors are present to offer children leadership and organized games and sports, not to babysit. Children are free to come and go on their own. The program includes arts and crafts, games, storytelling, sports, and more. Call the Kokomo Parks and Recreation Department at 765-456-7275 for additional information.
Small Works at IUK
Come see the exceptional small work from artists across the United States at the Indiana University Kokomo Art Gallery, 2300 S. Washington St., from July 5-20. All artwork is 12 inches or smaller.
TUESDAY
Walking Readers Club
Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library as you make your minds and bodies healthier! Walk around KHCPL Russiaville's neighborhood, 315 Mesa Dr., on Tue., July 11, from 8-9 a.m.
Free Mental Health Walk-In Clinic
Are you an adult struggling with anxiety, depression, or other mental health challenges? Come talk confidentially to a 4C associate who will help you find help locally. The walk-in clinic will be held on Tue., July 11, from 9 a.m. until noon at the library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St.
Art Camp
Art Camp offers artistic adventures and celebrations of creativity, friendship, and fun! The camp will take place in the Nature Explore Outdoor Classroom at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s Russiaville branch, 315 Mesa Dr., on Tue., July 11, from 10-11 a.m.
Back to School Assistance
The Kokomo Rescue Mission will offer a week of back-to-school clothing assistance to the community on July 11-14. Participants will be asked to come to Grace United Methodist Church, 219 W. Mulberry St., with their parent or legal guardian, who will need to show a photo ID, the student’s birth certificate and Social Security card, and proof of income. Hours are 10 a.m. – noon and 3-6 p.m. on Tue., July 11; noon – 3 p.m. on Wed., July 12; 10 a.m. – noon and 3-6 p.m. on Thu., July 13; and 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. on Fri., July 14. For additional information, call 7654-456-3838.
Banzai! Financial Skills for Teens and Adults
This free program teaches teens and adults what they need to know about spending, saving, budgeting, and more. Presented by Solidarity Community Federal Credit Union, Banzai! Money Basics for Kids will be held at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s south branch, 1755 E. Center Road, on Tue., July 11, from 1-3 p.m.
Discovery Center: 3D Pens
Have fun and meet new friends playing with the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s collection of low-tech and high-tech games and activities. On Tue., July 11, have fun with 3D pens at the library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St., from 2-3:30 p.m. This event is designed for children ages 8-13.
Raising Butterflies
Join the Kokomo Art Center for an informal learning session on Raising Butterflies given by Carolyn Swagerle. Carolyn will chat about her experiences and answer questions about raising butterflies on Tue., July 11, from 2-4 p.m. at the Kokomo Art Center, 525 W. Ricketts St.
Teens’ Choice Book Club
Teens meet up once a month at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s Main branch, 220 N. Union St., to discuss a book with their peers. Each month will have a theme. The next session is Tue., July 11, from 5-6 p.m. Teens will talk about what they liked about their book, what they didn't, and how it fits the theme.
Sand Art
Do you enjoy running on the beach or playing in the sand? Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library on Tue., July 11, from 5-6 p.m. for some fun with sand art. This event is designed for children ages 3-13 and will meet at the library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St.
WEDNESDAY
Americans and the Holocaust
The Kokomo Howard County Public Library is proud to be one of 50 U.S. libraries selected to host Americans and the Holocaust: A Traveling Exhibition for Libraries from the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum. The exhibit will be on display beginning Wed., July 12, at the library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St. An opening reception for the exhibit will be held from 6-8 p.m. on July 12, including a special performance by the Kokomo Symphony Orchestra.
Legal Aid Clinic
Need Pro bono representation? Have questions for an attorney? Apply with Pro Bono Indiana, Inc. to get the legal assistance you need at no cost to you! This service will be provided at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St., on Wed., July 12, from 9 a.m. until noon. No appointment needed.
KHCPL Main Book Discussion
Expand your reading horizons by joining the Kokomo Howard County Public Library on Wed., July 12, from 10-11:30 a.m. for engaging and lively discussions of books from different genres. This month’s book is “The Guest List,” by Lucy Foley. The discussion takes place at the library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St. Registration is required. Visit www.khcpl.org and click on Events to register.
CAM Founders Day
Join Coordinated Assistance Ministries (CAM) as it celebrates the founder of the organization, Rev. Ruth Lawson. A ceremony will take place at the new CAM facility, 625 N. Union St., at 11 a.m., followed by a hot dog lunch. Visitors can tour the facility and purchase new CAM merchandise.
Water Spray
The Kokomo Parks and Recreation Department and the Kokomo Fire Department will hold a free water spray at Jackson Morrow Park, 4200 S. Park Road, on Wed., July 12, from 1-3 p.m. All ages are welcome to attend and participate. For additional information, call 765-456-7275.
Medical Practices of the Civil War
The Kokomo Howard County Public Library will host an exploration of the history of medical practices during the Civil War on Wed., July 12, from 2-4 p.m. at the library’s south branch, 1755 E. Center Road. This program filled quickly when it was presented earlier this year, so make sure to register in advance by visiting www.khcpl.org and clicking on Events.
Park Band Summer Concerts
The Kokomo Park Band continues its Summer Concert season on Wed., July 12, at 7:30 p.m. in Highland Park. Conducted by Jay Gephardt the July 12 performance is themed “Reaching for the Stars,” featuring the Kokomo Marching Wildkats. An instrument “petting zoo” for kids will precede the concert at 6:30 p.m. Visit www.kokomoparkband.org for more information.
THURSDAY
KHCPL Russiaville Book Discussion
Expand your reading horizons by joining the Kokomo Howard County Public Library on Thu., July 13, from 1-2 p.m. for engaging and lively discussions of books from different genres. This month’s book is “The Princess Bride,” by William Goldman. The discussion takes place at the library’s Russiaville branch, 315 Mesa Dr. Registration is required. Visit www.khcpl.org and click on Events to register.
Off the Books Podcast
Join Kokomo Howard County Public Library employees Bethann and Samantha on Thu., July 13, from 2-3 p.m. as they chat about all things books. If you're an avid reader or library lover, tune in using any podcasting platform.
Ice Cream at the Library
Visit the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s south branch, 1755 E. Center Road, on Thu., July 13, from 2-4 p.m. as Home Team Ice Cream sets up shop in the library parking lot. The first 100 patrons to stop by the summer reading program prize desk inside the library will receive a coupon for a free ice cream.
Teen Art Group
Would you like the chance to sketch, color, and paint regularly with your friends? Then join the Teen Art Group at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St., on Thu., July 13, from 4-4:55 p.m.
Teen Writers Group
The Kokomo Howard County Public Library will hold a Writers Group for teen amateur fiction writers on Thu., Jul 13, from 5-6 p.m. at the library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St. Write something to submit and critique. Teens who enjoy writing and want honest feedback are invited to attend. Register for this event by visiting www.khcpl.org and clicking Events.
Discovery Center: Video Games
Have fun and meet new friends playing with the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s collection of low-tech and high-tech games and activities. On Thu., July 13, have fun with video games at the library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St., from 5-6:30 p.m. This event is designed for children ages 8-13.
Storytime with the Jackrabbits
Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library on Thu., July 13, from 5:30-6:30 p.m. for story time and a meet and greet with Jax and others from the Kokomo Jackrabbits family! This event takes place at the library’s Russiaville branch, 315 Mesa Dr.
Ice Cream at the Library
Visit the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s Russiaville branch, 315 Mesa Dr., on Thu., July 13, from 6-7 p.m. as Home Team Ice Cream sets up shop in the library parking lot. The first 50 patrons to stop by the summer reading program prize desk inside the library will receive a coupon for a free ice cream.
FRIDAY
Growing Readers: Tiny Tykes
Introduce your little one to quality literature and the library in a fun, inviting way with age-appropriate activities on Fri., July 14, from 10-10:45 a.m. at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s south branch, 1755 E. Center Road. This event is designed for children ages 3-5.
Colored Pencil Drawing Class
The Kokomo Art Association will host a colored pencil drawing class for children ages 9-12 on Fri., July 14, at the Artworks Gallery, 210 N. Main St. The class runs from 1-2:30 p.m. Cost is $60 and includes all supplies needed. Register at the Artworks Gallery. Class size is limited. For additional information, contact Cheryl at kokomoartassociation2014@gmail.com.
Friendship Jewelry Extravaganza
Visit the Kokomo Howard County Public Library on Fri., July 14, from 4-5 p.m. to create your own friendship bracelets for your besties. This event takes place at the library’s south branch, 1755 E. Center Road.
SATURDAY
Keep Kokomo Beautiful Day
The Keep Kokomo Beautiful 2023 Garden and Trail Maintenance Day will be Sat., July 15, from 9-11 a.m. Meet in downtown Kokomo at the gazebo in Millennium Park next to City Hall. For additional information, call 765-457-5301 or visit www.greaterkokomo.com.
Downtown Farmers Market
The Kokomo Downtown Farmers Market is located at the corner of Mulberry and Washington streets and is open every Saturday from 9 a.m. to noon through September. Find local produce, handmade artisan items, home-baked goods and much more.
Reading with Pet Partners
Kids can practice their reading skills by reading to trained therapy animals at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St., on Sat., July 15, from 11 a.m. until noon.
Junk Journaling
The Kokomo Art Association will hold Junk Journaling classes each Saturday from July 15 through Aug. 5 from 1-3 p.m. at the Artworks Gallery, 210 N. Main St. If you are a papercrafter, junk journal maker, or a scrapbooker, join them for a fun class on making embellishments, portfolios, ephemera, and deco. Learn to use household items to make faux rice paper, faux vellum, faux glassine envelopes, bi-fold portfolios, charms, and more. Cost is $50, which includes supplies for the four-week session. Register by clicking here.
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., July 15, at 5 p.m. Fairview Baptist Church is located at 2108 E Vaile Ave. behind the Walmart Plaza.
Riverwalk Concert Series
The Coterie presents the Riverwalk Concert Series, featuring Last Minute Band with Booze Hounds and Nectar Valley. The performance will take place on Sat., July 15, from 6-10 p.m., at the Riverwalk Stage behind The Foxes Trail restaurant. Free admission. Open to all ages.
COMING SOON
KPRD Super Explorers Camp
Registration for the Kokomo Parks and Recreation Department’s Super Explorers Camp is now open. This science and nature summer day camp takes place at the Kirkendall Nature Center in Jackson Morrow Park from 9 a.m. until noon each day. The Senior Explorers session, for ages 9-12, takes place July 17-21. Cost is $25 per session, and class size is limited to 20 children. To register, visit the park office in Highland Park or visit www.cityofkokomo.org for registration forms. For additional information, call 765-456-7275.
Unlazy River
Choose a fun pool floatie (or bring your own) to use as you complete a chalk obstacle course around the Nature Explore Outdoor Classroom at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s Russiaville branch, 315 Mesa Dr., on Mon., July 17, from 10-11 a.m. There will be lawn games, a sprinkler, and a snack, too! This event is designed for children ages 3-11.
Shark Week STEAM – Chomping Shark
Turn a regular clothespin into an amazing chomping shark as part of Shark Week STEAM at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s south branch, 1755 E. Center Road. This fun project for the whole family takes place on Mon., July 17, from 2:30-3:30 p.m. Register by visiting www.khcpl.org and clicking on Events or by calling any KHCPL location.
Back to School Event
The Howard County Department of Child Services will hold a Back to School event on Mon., July 17, from 4-7 p.m. at Kokomo Municipal Stadium. This event is open to all Howard County students in grades K-12, and they must be accompanied by an adult. Schools supplies, information, and game ticket vouchers for the Kokomo Jackrabbits game on July 18 will be handed out at this event.
Wild for Pollinators
Artist and curator of the Kokomo Art Center, Lesley Wysong, is highlighting the beauty and importance of pollinators through an exhibition of paintings and photographs. The exhibit runs through July 29 at the art center, 525 W. Ricketts St. As part of the exhibition, the art center will present "Pollinator Pathway" on Sat., July 19, from 2-4 p.m., featuring Marian Cable and Carol Moore of the Howard County Master Gardener Association.
AMVETS Meeting
The next meeting of American Veterans (AMVETS) Post 27 will take place on Wed., July 19, at 6 p.m., at the Russiaville First Baptist Church, 260 W. Main St. A potluck carry-in and meet and greet starts at 6 p.m. for free will donation. The official meeting takes place at 6:30 p.m. All veterans with an honorable discharge and their families are welcome. No combat required.
Music at the Fairgrounds
The Greentown Main Street Association presents Music at the Fairgrounds, a weekly concert series which takes place in front of the Community Building at the Howard County 4H Fairgrounds. The concerts will take place each Thursday evening, beginning July 20, at 7 p.m. The July 20 show features Matt Gerhard. In case of rain, all concerts will be held in the fairgrounds' cattle barn.
Mary Poppins by Curtain Call
Curtain Call Theatre for Children will present "Mary Poppins: The Broadway Musical" on Fri., July 21, at 7:30 p.m. and Sat., July 22, at 4:30 p.m. at Havens Auditorium on the IU Kokomo campus, 2300 S. Washington St. Presale tickets are $15. Tickets at the door are $18. This presentation is funded in part by a grant from the Community Foundation of Howard County. "Mary Poppins" is presented through a special arrangement with Musical Theatre International, which supplies all authorized performance materials.
Little Dribblers
One of the Kokomo Family YMCA's most popular youth sports summer camps is just around the corner! Make sure to register your kiddo for the Little Dribblers Summer Camp. Camp is open to children ages 4-6 and starts on Mon., July 24, at 5:30 p.m. These five-day camps focus on the skills, drills, rules, sportsmanship, teamwork, and conditioning in a series of unforgettable summer sessions. Register here: https://operations.daxko.com/Online/5014/ProgramsV2/Home.mvc
Private Beach Party
Solidarity Community Federal Credit Union will hold a members-only private beach party at Kokomo Beach on Tue., July 25, from 7-9 p.m. Find out more about all the details by clicking bit.ly/3MRswl1
YMCA Blood Drive
The Kokomo Family YMCA will host a blood drive on Wed., July 26, from 11 a.m. until 4 p.m. The drive will take place in the YMCA’s Community Room, 114 N. Union St. Schedule a time to donate by visiting redcrossblood.org.
Play On Kokomo Photo Contest
Help the City of Kokomo celebrate National Parks and Recreation Month by posting a photo in July from one of Kokomo’s parks, trails, or from Kokomo Beach. When you post, use the hashtag #PlayonKokomo2023. Prizes will be awarded to the best three photos, with the winner receiving two season passes to Kokomo Beach for 2024 along with 25 day passes. Second place will receive two season passes to Kokomo Beach for 2024, and third place will receive one pass to Kokomo Beach for 2024.
Ride of Hope
The 2023 Ride of Hope, sponsored by Turning Point - System of Care and Tyler's Triumphs, will take place on Sat., Aug. 12. The ride is held to raise awareness and support those struggling with substance abuse and addiction. The cost is $30 per rider and $10 per passenger. Bikes and Jeeps are welcome. Registration begins at 10:30 a.m. at Harley-Davidson of Kokomo, 335 S, 00 EW. Kickstands up at 11:30 a.m. The lunch stop for the ride will take place from 1-2:30 p.m. at the Whiskey & Wine Saloon, 4986 White Point Dr., in Monticello. The after-party takes place at 4 p.m. at Cooper's Pub, 113 E. Sycamore St., featuring live music from The Checkered Vans, provided by Cooper's Pub. Register at turningpointsoc.org/events. For additional information, call 765-860-8365 or email tiffanyd@turningpointsoc.org.