What's Happening This Week?
Events taking place in Kokomo and Howard County from Nov. 19-25 and beyond
This article is brought to you by the Coca-Cola Bottling Co. of Kokomo. Discover Real Magic with Coca-Cola.
TODAY
Jazz Quintet Concert
Kokomo Community Concerts presents the Holland & Coots Jazz Quintet, performing a delightful mix of jazz, blues, stride, boogie, pop and ragtime with energy, musicality. and humor. The group creates captivating arrangements for every taste, including The Tennessee Waltz, Blue Moon, and When You’re Smiling. The concert takes place at the Kokomo High School Auditorium, 2501 S. Berkley Road, on Sun., Nov. 19, at 2:30 p.m. Single tickets are $25. Students and children attend for free. Tickets can be purchased online at www.kokomocommunityconcerts.org; For information, visit the website or call 765-210-0686.
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 meets Mon., Nov. 20, 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 12 months are welcome to participate. Older siblings are welcome to join also.
Growing Readers Dino Camp
Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library as it presents Dino Camp! The camp will take place each Monday in November from 10-11:30 a.m. at the library’s Russiaville branch, 305 Mesa Dr. Every camp day begins with a delightful picture book followed by sensory-rich exploration and hands-on play activities to engage your preschooler's senses, develop motor skills, and learn about dinos!
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., Nov. 20, 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.
Recovery Café
Turning Point System of Care holds get-togethers at the Recovery Café, 1234 N. Courtland Ave., every Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 11:30 a.m. until 4 p.m. Recovery Café is a safe, inclusive, and caring recovery community connecting people through love and purpose. Learn more and get connected by clicking here: https://bit.ly/3VRfRRL
Growing Readers: Tiny Tykes
Introduce your little one to quality literature and the library in a fun, inviting way with age-appropriate activities on Mon., Nov. 20, from 2-2:30 p.m. at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St. This event is designed for children ages 3-5.
Nurses in Recovery Support Group
Turning Point A System of Care will hold a Nurses in Recovery Support Group each Monday at the Turning Point offices, 1234 N. Courtland Ave., from 7:15-8 p.m. This group is approved by the Indiana Professionals Recovery Program. For additional information, call 765-860-8365.
TUESDAY
Mental Health Access Days
Are you an adult struggling with anxiety, depression, or another mental health challenge? Visit the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St., On Tue., Nov. 21, between 9 a.m. and noon to meet with a specialist from 4C Health.
Book Buddy Book Club
Adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities - regardless of reading ability - can join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library on Tue., Nov. 21, from 10-11:30 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.
Preschool STEAM
Enjoy fun and games related to science, technology, engineering, art, and math on Tue., Nov. 21, from 2:30-3:30 p.m. at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St. Participants will make holiday ornaments. This event is intended for children ages 3-5.
WEDNESDAY
Free Thanksgiving Dinner
South Side Christian Church, 201 E Markland Ave., will host a free Thanksgiving dinner for the community on Wed., Nov. 22. Food will be served from 5-6:30 p.m. There will be no carry-outs or delivery available. There will be prizes and free books for children. Please call the church office at 765-457-9357 with any questions.
THURSDAY
Turkey Trot 5K
Registrations are now open for the Kokomo Family YMCA’s annual Turkey Trot 5K, but time is running out. Registration ends on Tue., Nov. 21. Join the YMCA on Thu., Nov. 23, Thanksgiving Day. Run or walk the scenic course during this timed, family-friendly race, which will begin at the YMCA, 114 N. Union St. Proceeds from the event benefit the YMCA’s annual funding campaign. Register now by visiting https://runsignup.com/Race/IN/Kokomo/KokomoFamilyYMCATurkeyTrot5K2021?fbclid=IwAR2IudHbme2yQ0NTuQRg_JXDKsaLgILshZ5JZlc5gspVLRpMXx_WKN9gCD4
Thanksgiving Feast
The Kokomo Rescue Mission will hold a free Thanksgiving feast on Thu., Nov. 23, from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Meals are available through delivery, drive-thru, or grab and go at Grace United Methodist Church, 219 W. Mulberry St. Deliveries will begin at 10:30 a.m. For delivery, call the Mission office at 765-456-3838 between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. anytime through Nov. 21. Delivery limited to the city boundaries.
Off the Books Podcast
Join Kokomo Howard County Public Library employees Bethann and Samantha on Thu., Nov. 23, 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.
FRIDAY
Lights in the Airpark
The Grissom Air Museum, 1000 W. Hoosier Blvd., Peru, will host its Lights in the Airpark Christmas lights display each Thursday-Sunday from 4:30-9 p.m. beginning Fri., Nov. 24 and continuing through Dec. 31. The park will be closed on Dec. 24-25. Admission is $9 for adults and children ages 12 and up. Children ages 6-11 are admitted for $8. Kids 5 and under attend for free. Visit indoor museum and lights display in the airpark for one price. There will be a free take-home craft for kids. Visit www.grissomairmuseum.com for additional information.
City of Lights Christmas Lights Display
The City of Kokomo’s Parks and Recreation Department and the Y’s Men will host the annual City of Lights Christmas light display from Fri., Nov. 24, through Dec. 31 in Highland Park. Walk or drive through the lights display, which opens nightly at dusk. Santa Claus will visit each evening at the end of the drive from 6-10 p.m. through Dec. 24. Admission to the lights display is free, but donations to the YMCA are accepted at the end of the drive.
Christmas Lights of Greentown
The Christmas Lights of Greentown annual lights display will take place at the Howard County Fairgrounds, 610 E. Payton St. Drive through the Christmas Lights of Greentown to see large light displays and archways. The display is open Nov. 24-26, Dec. 1-3, Dec. 7-10 and Dec. 14-25, beginning at 6 p.m. each evening. Enjoy a Christmas Village and hot chocolate in the Round Barn. Santa will be there on select nights.
Frozen Sandlot
The Frozen Sandlot will open for the season on select days from Nov. 24 through Jan. 7, 2024. This outdoor ice-skating rink will take place at Kokomo Municipal Stadium. The Frozen Sandlot is operated by Bridges Outreach, and proceeds from ticket sales benefit its programming for area students. For a full schedule of open skating times, prices, and information, visit www.frozensandlot.com.
SATURDAY
Dino-mite Crafts
Grab a friend and drop in on Sat., Nov. 25, from 3-5 p.m. for an afternoon of crafts featuring dinosaurs at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s south branch, 1755 E. Center Road.
Seiberling Lighting Ceremony
The Howard County Historical Society will hold its Christmas at the Seiberling Opening Night Lighting Ceremony at the Seiberling Mansion and Howard County Museum, 1200 W. Sycamore St., on Sat., Nov. 25, from 6-8 p.m. Tickets are $10 adults and $5 for ages 18 and under. Join Santa Claus and the Howard County Historical Society as they kick off the holiday season, inviting guests to be the first to view the Seiberling Mansion, dressed in stunning holiday splendor by volunteer community groups and individuals. Regular visitation hours will take place Tuesday through Sunday from 1-4 p.m. as well as on select evenings through the end of the year. Closed on Dec. 24-25. Visit www.howardcountymuseum.org for more information.
COMING SOON
Craft with Me
If you are a fan of the beautiful fall season and love getting creative, then you’re in for a treat! Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library and embark on an exciting journey of making autumnal-themed creations together. Craft with Me takes place on Sun., Nov. 26, from 3-4 p.m. at the library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St., and is designed for children ages 3-13.
Red Ribbon Christmas Boxes
The Kokomo Rescue Mission will accept applications for its Red Ribbon Christmas Box through Nov. 28. Applicants should visit Grace United Methodist Church, 219 W. Mulberry St., at the following dates and times to make their application: Mon., Nov. 27, from 3-5:30 p.m.; and Tue., Nov. 28, from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m. Red Ribbon Christmas boxes contain gifts for every member of the household, paper products, hygiene items, and a grocery gift card. Those applying should have with them a current government-issued photo ID, Social Security cards and birth certificates or proof of birth dates for all household members, and proof of household income.
Manga and Anime Club
Interested in manga and anime? Read Jujutsu Kaisen Vol. 1, and join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library on Wed., Nov. 29, from 6:30-7:30 p.m. for crafts and an escape room! The event takes place at the library’s south branch, 1755 E. Center Road. Register by visiting www.khcpl.org and clicking on Events.
Elf Boot Camp
If your holiday "to-do" list is a mile long, then get the kids trained as elves to help you get it all done! Visit the Kokomo Howard County Public Library on Thu., Nov. 30, for Elf Boot Camp from 10-10:45 a.m. at the Russiaville branch, 305 Mesa Dr.
Kids in the Kitchen
Aspiring chefs ages 3-13, join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library on Thu., Nov. 30, to create delicious, no-bake holiday treats your family will enjoy! Kids in the Kitchen takes place at the library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St., from 5:30-6:30 p.m.
Rudolph Run 5K
Runners and walkers of all ages and abilities are invited to the Kokomo-Howard County Public Library’s annual Rudolph Run, a family-friendly 5K walk and run through downtown Kokomo on Sat., Dec. 2. Doors open at 7 a.m., and the race begins at 8 a.m. Trophies will be given to the fastest runners, fastest walkers, and fastest stroller. The event will include reindeer games and a costume contest, so all participants are encouraged to wear holiday garb for a chance to win a prize. Prizes will be given to the best adult, child, and dog costumes. Registration is now open and can be done online at https://runsignup.com/Race/IN/Kokomo/KHCPLRUDOLPHFAMILYFUN5KRUNWALK . The cost is $25 for adults, $15 for those 12 to 17 years old, and free for children 0 to 11 years old. Well-behaved dogs on leashes are welcome. Packet pick-up will be Thursday, Nov. 30, Friday, Dec. 1, and Saturday, Dec. 2, before the event. For more information, contact Kayla Skiles at kskiles@khcpl.org.
Holiday Pop-Up Shop
A Holiday Pop Up Shop to support the restoration of Douglass School will take place on Sat., Dec. 2, from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. at the UAW Local 685 Hall, 929 E. Hoffer St. Enjoy holiday shopping while supporting this fundraiser. Vendor opportunities are available at a cost of $35 per booth. Contact Karon Lancaster at 765-419-4142 or via email at karonlancaster@gmail.com for additional information. For more information about the restoration, visit www.dougschoolkokomo.com.
Cookies, Cocoa, and a Craft
This delightful holiday-themed program combines the warmth of cookies and cocoa with the creativity of crafting! It's the perfect way to embrace the season and spend time with fellow crafters! Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library on Sat., Dec. 2, from 1-3 p.m. at the south branch, 1755 E. Center Road. Register for this event by visiting www.khcpl.org and clicking on Events.
It's a Wonderful Life
The Kokomo Civic Theatre has the perfect way to start the holiday season! "It's a Wonderful Life - A Live Radio Play," will be performed on Friday and Saturday, Dec. 1-2 at 7:30 p.m., and Sunday, Dec. 3, at 2 p.m., at Havens Auditorium, IU Kokomo, 2300 S. Washington St. Purchase tickets online at kokomocivictheatre.org/its-a-wonderful-life/
City of Kokomo Christmas Parade
The 2023 City of Kokomo Christmas Parade will be held in downtown on Sat., Dec. 2. The courthouse area closes to traffic at 3:30 p.m. The parade route will be restricted at 4:30 p.m. The event will feature carolers, train rides, live reindeer and more from 4:30-6 p.m. A tree lighting ceremony takes place at 6 p.m., and the parade begins at 6:30 p.m. For information about parade entries, becoming a vendor, or sponsorship opportunities, visit www.cityofkokomo.org or email dtrine@cityofkokomo.org.
Kokomo Symphony Christmas Concert
Looking for a way to warm up this winter? The Kokomo Symphony Orchestra will perform its annual Christmas concert on Sun., Dec. 3, at 3 p.m. at Grace United Methodist Church, 219 W. Mulberry St. Join them for an evening of heartwarming melodies and holiday cheer, led by Maestro Jose Valencia. Tickets are $25 each. Tickets for college students are $5 with ID. Students in K-12 and young children are admitted free. For additional information, call 765-236-0251 or visit www.kokomosymphony.net .
Intro to Microsoft Office 365
Ivy Tech Community College Kokomo will host an Intro to Microsoft Office 365 virtual class on Dec. 5-6 from 8 a.m. until noon each day. Classes are $125. For more information, contact Bonnie at Bdevers3@ivytech.edu .
Battle of the Christmas Cookies
Join Kokomo Urban Outreach on Fri., Dec. 8, for the Battle of the Christmas Cookies, a cooking competition for all ages. Businesses and individuals of all ages can enter their favorite Christmas cookie in the competition for prizes and bragging rights. And Santa will make an appearance, too. The battle will take place at Northside Village Church, 2419 N. Locke St., from 11 a.m. until 6 p.m. Each entry in the competition costs $10 and requires the preparation of three and a half dozen cookies, which will be available for purchase by the dozen and used for judging. Each baker can enter as many recipes as they’d like for the competition. To participate in the competition, visit https://www.kokomourbanoutreach.org/how-to-help-1 .
Habitat for Humanity Framing Day
Habitat for Humanity Kokomo invites the community to Framing Day 2023 for the newest partner family house at 1417 N. Wabash Ave. on Sat., Dec. 9, beginning at 8:30 a.m. Framing Day is the largest day in the build process, and many hands are needed on deck. Volunteers must be at least 16 years of age and wear closed toe shoes to help with manual labor. Each volunteer will be asked to sign a waiver. If you have one on file already for the 2023 year, you will not be asked to sign another. If you have your own tools that you would like to bring to volunteer, Habitat encourages you to label your items with your name. Habitat For Humanity Kokomo will provide food on Framing Day for volunteers. To volunteer or donate food for this day or any other build day in this process, please call the Habitat for Humanity at (765) 452-2185.
Cookies with Santa
Center Township of Howard County will present Cookies with Santa on Wed., Dec. 13, from 5-7:30 p.m. Enjoy hot cocoa and cookies and get a photo with Santa himself at the Center Township community room, 213 E. Jefferson St.
Finding Nemo Jr. Auditions
Curtain Call Theatre for Children will hold auditions for its winter play, Disney-Pixar’s Finding Nemo Jr., on Sat., Dec. 16, at the Curtain Call Studio, 2114 N. Armstrong St. Auditions will be open to children ages 8-18. Sign-ups and what/how to prepare for auditions will be released at a later date. Performance dates are March 15-16, 2024, at Havens Auditorium. For additional information, visit www.kcctc.org.
Camp Tycony Winter Camp
The Kokomo Family YMCA Winter Camp at Camp Tycony starts Dec. 20. Embark on the ultimate adventure! Register today for an unforgettable time filled with thrilling activities, new friends, and memories that will last a lifetime. This year the YMCA Winter Camp provides a range of activities, both indoor and outdoor, for everyone to enjoy. Outdoor activities include archery, hiking, sports, visiting Sandy Beach, and exploring Deadman's Hill. Indoor activities are packed with fun activities such as Christmas crafts, board games, and many more. The camp runs Dec. 20-29 (no camp on Dec. 25) from 6:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. each day. The cost is $30 per day for YMCA members and $35 per day for non-members. Don't miss out! Register here: https://operations.daxko.com/Online/5014/ProgramsV2/Search.mvc?category_ids=CAT27