What's Happening This Week?
Events taking place in Kokomo and Howard County from April 7-13 and beyond
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TODAY
Brassfire
Kokomo Community Concerts presents Brassfire - the virtuosic trio of trumpet, piano and bass - led by world-renowned trumpeter Jens Lindemann, formerly of Canadian Brass. Brassfire will perform the music of Louis Armstrong, Herb Alpert, Doc Severinsen, and more at the Kokomo High School Auditorium on Sun., April 7, at 2:30 p.m. Season tickets for adults are $60. Single tickets for adults are $25. Single tickets for students and children are free. Tickets can be purchased online at www.kokomocommunityconcerts.org . For information, visit the website or call 210-0686.
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 will meet on Mon., April 8, from 9:30-11 a.m. at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s south branch, 1755 E. Center Road. Caregivers with a baby ages birth to 2 years are welcome to participate. Older siblings are welcome to join also.
Growing Readers: Little Learners
Introduce your little one to quality literature and the library in a fun, inviting way with age-appropriate activities on Mon., April 8, from 10-10:30 a.m. at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s Russiaville branch, 315 Mesa Dr. This event is designed for children ages 0-2.
Peek-a-Boo Playdate
Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library on Mon. April 8, from 11-11:30 a.m. for a playful storytime full of fun rhymes and songs for babies and toddlers. This event takes place at the library’s Main branch, 220 N. Union St., and is designed for children ages 0-2.
Eclipsed in Fun
It’s not just an eclipse, it’s a party! Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library on Mon., April 8, for an afternoon celebrating one of the most awe-inspiring spectacles in all of nature! This event takes place at the library’s south branch, 1755 E. Center Road, from noon until 4 p.m. For more information, please visit www.khcpl.org/2024-eclipse
Eclipse at the Riverwalk
A free concert, Eclipse at the Riverwalk, featuring Luna Worldcast with The Pickin’ Pear, will take place on Mon., April 8, from 1-4 p.m. at the Riverwalk Pavilion in downtown Kokomo. The Coterie will provide food and beverages for this free event.
Free Eclipse Glasses
The Greentown Historical Society is giving away free eclipse glasses along with eclipse viewing information on Mon., April 8, from 1-4 p.m. The glasses are available by visiting the Greentown History Center, 103 E. Main St., in Greentown. For additional information, call 765-626-0164.
Eclipse at the Observatory
Join Indiana University Kokomo on Mon., April 8, to view the total solar eclipse. The event runs from 1:30-4:30 p.m. at the IU Kokomo Observatory, 2660 S. Washington St. The eclipse will be live-streamed from a telescope in the dome of the observatory. If the weather conditions are not favorable for viewing in Kokomo, livestreamed views from other locations in the U.S. will be presented in the observatory’s lecture hall.
Feel Good Solar Eclipse Watch Party
Celebrate with intention at the Feel Good Solar Eclipse Watch Party on Mon., April 8. The event, located at 1800 Gentilly Ct., Kokomo, will run from 1:30-4:30 p.m. Tickets are $10. There will be a drum circle, intuitive dancing, a sound bath, crafts, and snacks! Glass jars will be available for anyone who wants to make eclipse water. Family-friendly! Viewing glasses will be provided. Only 75 spaces available for this sacred and special celestial event. Purchase tickets by visiting https://www.eventbrite.com/e/kokomo-feel-good-eclipse-watch-party-tickets-858236898667?utm-campaign=social&utm-content=attendeeshare&utm-medium=discovery&utm-term=listing&utm-source=cp&aff=ebdsshcopyurl&fbclid=IwAR3-trW8fbEU8FQuIPqk1-pJkTWxpQrEI_ALmdk1I3i9g8GPKp4gO651TH8_aem_AXAOG9KAiGtDE4haRJAY15EqZQI-BFOtLnbvbmTD0YswgyKkfHg34ytPQKz59uQjkrdjCXkesjwwMOYF8BS_kJGb
Dark at the Diamond
Solidarity Community Federal Credit Union invites everyone to Dark at the Diamond on Mon., April 8, for a free eclipse watch party occurring at Kokomo Municipal Stadium, 400 S. Union St., from 2-4 p.m. All are welcome during this family-friendly event. DJ Pugh will provide music, and interactive games and activities will take place on the field and concourse. So Tam Good Food Truck, Good Dudes BBQ & Catering, and HomeTeam Ice Cream will have food and treats for purchase, and free eclipse glasses will be provided for all attendees while they last.
The Eclipse at Jackson Morrow
Watch the total solar eclipse with the Kokomo Parks and Recreation Department in Jackson Morrow Park, 4200 S. Park Road. This event takes place from 2-4 p.m. and is child-friendly and family focused. This free viewing party will include eclipse glasses (while supplies last), kid-friendly eclipse crafts and activities, a moonwalk bounce house, a live-stream of NASA’s EDGE Megacast, yard games, and snacks.
Board Game Night
Snacks and board games! Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library on Mon., April 8, 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.
Nurses in Recovery
The Nurses in Recovery Support Group will be held on Mon., April 8, from 6-7 p.m. at Turning Point System of Care, 1234 N. Courtland Ave. This program is approved by the Indiana Professional Recovery Program. If you are a nurse in recovery or just need support, Turning Point encourages you to come. This support group will be held every Monday from 6-7 p.m.
Drums Alive! Family Beats
Build a sense of community while doing cardio at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s Drums Alive! – Family Beats session on Mon., April 8, from 6:30-7:15 p.m. The event will take place at the library’s south branch, 1755 E. Center Road. Please wear comfortable clothing and shoes. Register by visiting www.khcpl.org and clicking Events or by calling any KHCPL location.
Pollinator Pathways
On Mon., April 8, Master Gardeners Marian Cable and Carol Reed will explain the program “Pollinator Pathways” at the monthly meeting of Kokomo Area Creation Care. The meeting will begin at 7 p.m. at Christ Lutheran Church, 3401 S. Dixon Road. The meeting is hosted by Kokomo Area Creation Care, an organization focused upon ways to be better stewards of the Earth by using resources wisely for future generations to enjoy. Meetings are open to all. Fellowship and light refreshments will be available at 6:45 p.m.
Kokomo Young Life
Kokomo Young Life is a hangout on Monday nights at the Kokomo Family YMCA, 114 N. Union St., for all high school students. No YMCA membership required. The hangout is completely free to students. Events consist of fun, games, food, and a short and simple Bible lesson! The club meets each Monday at 7:07 p.m.
TUESDAY
Mental Health Access Days
Are you an adult struggling with anxiety, depression, or other mental health challenge? Meet with a professional from 4C Health who can connect you to the support and services you need. The next Mental Health Access Day will be Tuesday, April 9, from 9 a.m. until noon at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St.
Book Buddy Book Club
Adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities - regardless of reading ability - can join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library on Tue., April 9, from 10-11 a.m. to read, make friends, and have fun. The club will meet at the library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St. Registration is required by calling 765-626-0813.
PAL Spring Soccer
Registration is open now for the Police Athletic League Spring Soccer League until the end of April. Sign up now by visiting www.kokomopalsports.com. The fee is $72 and must be paid at the time of registration. In-person registration is available every Tuesday and Thursday in March and April from 10 a.m. until noon at the PAL Field, 3520 W. Boulevard St. The season will begin the first weekend of May and will run until the end of June. Games are played on Saturdays and Sundays, depending on the number of teams. All games and practices will take place at the PAL field. The league currently needs coaches. Those interested in serving should note this on the registration form. Age groups are 4-5, 6-8, and 9-13. A 14+ group may be added if there is enough interest. For additional information, call 765-455-2440 or email palsports3520@yahoo.com .
Kindermusik Laugh and Learn
Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library for singing, dancing, and instrument play, which promote cognitive development! Kindermusik Laugh and Learn will be held at the library’s south branch, 1755 E. Center Road, on Tue., April 9, from 3:30-4 p.m. for children ages 0-5 years. Your child's movements stimulate the release of chemicals in the brain to support memory and learning!
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., April 9, have fun with 3D pens at the library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St., from 4-6 p.m. This event is designed for children ages 8-13.
Pint-Size Chef
The Kokomo Parks and Recreation Department will begin accepting registrations for its Spring session of Pint-Size Chef. The classes will take place on Tuesdays from April 9 until May 14. The cost is $30 per child, and there are just 12 spaces per class. Classes will take place from 5:30-6:30 p.m. for ages 5-8 and from 6:45-7:45 p.m. for ages 9-12. For additional information, including location of the clsses, call the KPRD office at 765-456-7275.
Share and Swap Low-Carb Recipe Tasting
Are you on a low carb diet and want something new and exciting to fix? Bring a low-carb recipe and samples to share and find some new ideas at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St., on Tue., April 9, from 6-7 p.m. Register here by visiting www.khcpl.org and clicking on Events, or by calling any KHCPL location.
Invasive Species
Learn about invasive species and what you can do to stop their spread with the Kokomo Howard County Public Library on Tue., April 9. This program, taught by Mathias Ingle from Purdue Extension, will take place from 6:30-7:30 p.m. at the library’s Russiaville branch, 315 Mesa Dr.
WEDNESDAY
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., from 9 a.m. until noon. No appointment needed.
Growing Readers: Little Learners
Introduce your little one to quality literature and the library in a fun, inviting way with age-appropriate activities on Wed., April 10, from 10-10:30 a.m. at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s south branch, 1755 Center Road. This event is designed for children ages 3-5.
KHCPL Main Book Discussion
Expand your reading horizons by joining the Kokomo Howard County Public Library on Wed., April 10, from 10-11:30 a.m. for engaging and lively discussions of books from different genres. This month’s book is “Educated,” by Tara Westover. 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.
Kokomo Area Career Fair
The Kokomo Area Career Fair will take place on Wed., April 10, from noon until 2 p.m. in the Kelley Student Center on the Indiana University Kokomo campus, 2300 S. Washington St. Register for the largest community career fair in the county by visiting www.go.iu.eduj/4QeM .
Discovery Center: Robots
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 Wed., April 10, have fun with 3D pens at the library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St., from 4-6 p.m. This event is designed for children ages 8-13.
Poetry Group
Poets in search of an audience and feedback from fellow poets are encouraged to attend the Poetry Group at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St., on Wed., April 10, from 5-8 p.m.
Starry Skies Painting
Learn new painting techniques and explore your creativity! Using software to view the night sky at a time that is important to you, the Kokomo Howard County Public Library will help you incorporate accurate night sky features into your painting. This event takes place on Wed., April 10, from 6-8 p.m. at the library’s south branch, 1755 E. Center Road. Join the waitlist for this event by visiting www.khcpl.org and clicking on Events.
Bible Baptist Political Forum
Bible Baptist Church, 2635 S. Dixon Road, will sponsor a political forum featuring candidates for Indiana’s 5th District U.S. Representative seat on Wed., April 10. The event is co-sponsored by Biblical Citizenship in Modern America. The candidates will speak in the church’s main auditorium from 6-8 p.m. For additional information, call Chuck Freyler at 765-437-0150 or Melanie Vess at 765-437-2168.
Blind Tiger Comedy Open Mic
Blind Tiger Comedy hosts an open mic comedy night each Wednesday evening at 9 p.m. at the Elbow Room, 1004 N. Washington St. Anyone is welcome to take to the microphone to try to make people laugh.
THURSDAY
Prevent Child Abuse Annual Conference
The Family Service Association of Howard County will host its annual Prevent Child Abuse Conference on Thu., April 11. Registration and a continental breakfast begin at 8 a.m. at Northview Church, 3409 S, CR 200 W. The morning session begins at 8:30 a.m. and runs until noon, featuring speakers Trisha Prickett and Carla A. Carlisle. The event breaks for lunch and resumes at 1:30 p.m. for the afternoon session, featuring keynote speaker Ashley Bendiksen. The conference is free and open to the public. For additional information, email grubers@fsahc.org or call 765-457-9313.
Kindermusik Wiggle and Grow
Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library for singing, dancing, and instrument play, which promote cognitive development! Kindermusik Wiggle and Grow will be held at the library’s Russiaville branch, 315 Mesa Dr., on Thu., April 11, from 10-10:30 a.m. for children ages 0-2. Your child's movements stimulate the release of chemicals in the brain to support memory and learning!
Growing Readers: Little Learners
Introduce your little one to quality literature and the library in a fun, inviting way with age-appropriate activities on Thu., April 11, from 11-11:45 a.m. at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St. This event is designed for children ages 3-5.
KHCPL Russiaville Book Discussion
Expand your reading horizons by joining the Kokomo Howard County Public Library on Thu., April 11, from 1-2 p.m. for engaging and lively discussions of books from different genres. This month’s book is “Lost Apothecary,” by Sarah Penner. 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.
Blood Drive
The Kokomo Howard County Public Library will hold a blood drive on Thu., April 11, at its south branch, 1755 E. Center Road, from 1-6 p.m. Register in advance by visiting https://khcpl.libnet.info/event/10209427
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., April 11, 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., April 11, 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.
Art in Progress – Kids’ Art Club
Calling all young artists! Unleash creativity through fun projects and learn artistic skills in a supportive, lively environment with the Kokomo Howard County Public Library on Thu., April 11, from 6-7 p.m. This event takes place at the library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St., and is designed for children ages 8-13.
Earth Day Chair Yoga
The Kokomo Howard County Public Library presents Yoga Does a Body Good on Thu., April 11, from 6-7:15 p.m. Tap into the Earth's energy with this grounding, stabilizing practice. Chairs will be used for support. No prior yoga experience required. This event takes place at the Jeff Stout Community Center, 650 N. West St., Russiaville.
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., April 12, 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 0-2.
Genealogy for Night Owls
The Kokomo Howard County Public Library will hold a Genealogy for Night Owls event on Fri., April 12, from 5-11:45 p.m. at the library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St. This after-hours research event is open to people of all experience levels, with staff ready to assist. There will be a buffet dinner, snacks, and door prizes. The cost of the event is $20, and registration is required. Make payment by April 8 in the Genealogy and Local History Department in the library’s lower level.
Kokomo Bobkats Basketball
The Kokomo Bobkats will play a home game against the Medora Timberjacks on Fri., April 12, at Kokomo Memorial Gymnasium, 200 N. Apperson Way. Game time is 7:05 p.m. Gates open one hour before tip-off. Tickets are $20 for lower bowl seating and $10 for upper bowl seating; Season tickets are $250 for lower bowl and $120 for upper bowl. Buy season tickets and merchandise anytime at 2989 S. Webster St. or by visiting www.kokomobobkats.com.
Summer Pickleball League
The Kokomo Parks and Recreation Department will hold a Summer Pickleball League, beginning April 27. Registration for this mixed doubles league will run through April 12. There will be recreational and competitive divisions. The league will run 10 weeks and will culminate in a tournament. Play will take place on Saturdays beginning at 10 a.m. Players ages 14 and older are welcome to participate. Registration is $50 per team and must be turned in at the KPRD office, 1402 W. Defenbaugh St. Call 765-456-7275 for additional information.
SATURDAY
Dance Across Russiaville
Celebrate National Libraries Week with a special “Dance Across Russiaville” event on Sat., April 13, from 8:30-9:30 a.m. Participants should gather eithers at the Russiaville branch of the Kokomo Howard County Public Library, 315 Mesa Dr., or the Russiaville Lions Club, 555 N. Liberty St., as participants will attempt to create a mile-long dancing line. This event is open to the entire community.
Wrangler & Friends
Kindness and love create lasting relationships. Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library as Wrangler visits the library’s south branch, 1755 E. Center Road, for story time, and hear a story about "a little horse who did a very big thing!" This event takes place on Sat., April 13, from 11 a.m. until noon.
Silly Safaris
Join the Kokomo Parks and Recreation Department for its 2024 Creature Feature: Silly Safaris on Sat., April 13, from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m. at the Kirkendall Nature Center in Jackson Morrow Park. This is a free event open to everyone.
Families Standing on a Firm Foundation
Arise Mental Health Ministry presents "Families Standing on a Firm Foundation," a youth and parent seminar. This event will lead participants through mental health issues that face today's society, as well as how to cope with arising issues. This seminar is open to parents, grandparents, guardians, and all youth ages 5-18. Take the opportunity to strengthen family bonds on Sat., April 13, from 11:45 a.m. until 3:30 p.m. at Mt. Pisgah Missionary Baptist Church, 1599 E. Sycamore St. Doors open at 11:30 a.m., and lunch will be provided. RSVP on Eventbrite: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/families-standing-on-a-firm-foundation-matthew-724-27-tickets-859126288857?aff=ebdssbdestsearch. Sponsored by Mt. Pisgah Missionary Baptist Church. For more information, contact Pamela Kemper, Arise Ministry Coordinator, at ariseministry@gmail.com.
Craft Corner: Wooden Crate Mini Gift Basket
Using stain, paint, and embellishments, participating artists will turn a dollar store crate into an adorable gift basket! Join the Howard County Public Library on Sat., April 13, from 1-3 p.m. at its south branch, 1755 E. Center Road, for this special art event. Registration is required and runs through April 10. Register by visiting www.khcpl.org and clicking on Events.
Poetry Workshop
Visit the Kokomo Howard County Public Library on Sat., April 13, for a poetry workshop. The theme of the event is “Turning the Tangible into the Intangible,” an exercise in delving deeper into your poetic voice. The workshop takes place at the library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St., from 1:30-3 p.m. This workshop is hosted by the Poetry Society of Indiana.
COMING SOON
Kokomo Bobkats Basketball
The Kokomo Bobkats will play a home game against the Glass City Wranglers on Sun., April 14, Kokomo Memorial Gymnasium, 200 N. Apperson Way. Game time is 3:05 p.m. Gates open one hour before tip-off. Tickets are $20 for lower bowl seating and $10 for upper bowl seating; Season tickets are $250 for lower bowl and $120 for upper bowl. Buy season tickets and merchandise anytime at 2989 S. Webster St. or by visiting www.kokomobobkats.com.
Hope Springs Eternal Blood Drive
Join Kokomo First Christian Church, 854 N, CR 300 W, as it hosts a blood drive on Mon., April 15, from 2:30-7 p.m. Blood is an essential medicine that cannot be manufactured. Give back to the community or support a friend or loved one fighting an illness with the gift of blood. Those who donate at this event will be entered into a drawing to win a pontoon boat. To make an appointment, call 765-457-4491 or visit https://donate.indiana.versiti.org/donor/schedules/drive_schedule/164255
Garden Grenades
Do you enjoy gardening? Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library on Tue., April 16, from 5:30-6:30 p.m. for this hands-on seed bomb program and learn about the importance of plants, gardening, and environmental conservation in a fun and interactive way. The event takes place at the library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St.
Life Beyond Earth
Is there life on Mars? Through activities and thought-provoking discussions, the Kokomo Howard County Public Library will delve into the fascinating world of astrobiology and the conditions necessary for life to thrive. Join the library at its south branch, 1755 E. Center Road, on Wed., April 17, from 6:30-7:30 p.m. for this alien event. Register by visiting www.khcpl.org and clicking on Events.
CAM 2024 Sleepout
Coordinated Assistance Ministries (CAM), 625 N. Union St., will hold the 2024 Sleepout on Fri., April 19, from midnight until 7 a.m. The Sleepout is an exercise for youth groups, families, and others to experience what it would be like to be homeless. The event will take place in the CAM parking lot. Participants will learn about local agencies that serve the homeless. Register by visiting www.camhope.org or email your registration form to melanie@camhope.org. For additional information, call Melanie Waggoner at 765-452-8963, ext. 3.
Art Glass Exhibition
The Kokomo Art Association invites the community to experience the realm of art glass with the help of one of the world’s leading manufacturers, Kokomo Opalescent Glass. A curated exhibit of the processes and products created by Kokomo Opalescent Glass for the past 130 years will be on display at the Artworks Gallery, 210 N. Main St., through Sat., April 27. A special reception with the artists from Kokomo Opalescent Glass will take place on Fri., April 19, at 6:30 p.m. at the Artworks Gallery. Refreshments will be served at the free event, open to the public. The gallery is open Tuesday through Saturday from noon until 4 p.m.
Healthy Kids Day
The Kokomo Family YMCA, 114 N. Union St., will hold a Healthy Kids Day celebration on Sat., April 20, from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. Activities include: kids hip hop, an inflatable obstacle course, free haircuts, an ice cream truck, cornhole, a Pop-Up Adoption Center by the Kokomo Humane Society, a Wibit water obstacle course, face painting, and other interactive demonstrations and activities. This free event is open to the entire public.
Fuel Cornhole Tournament
Fuel Church, 2021 E. Markland Ave., will hold its first-ever cornhole tournament on Sat., April 27, beginning at 10 a.m. The event will include food, fun, and a ping-pong tournament as well. Registration for the cornhole tournament is $30 and can be completed by visiting www.thefuelchurch.com. Registration for the ping-pong tournament is $10. There is a buy-back option for those eliminated. All proceeds from the event with sponsor children going to church camp this summer.