What's Happening This Week?
Events taking place in Kokomo and Howard County from July 2-8 and beyond
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MONDAY
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.
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 3. 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 3, 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 3, 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.
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.
Banzai! Money Basics for Kids
This free program teaches kids 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 Mon., July 3, from 3-4 p.m. This program is designed for kids ages 6-11. Register for this event online by visiting https://khcpl.libnet.info/event/8414281
Intro to Crochet
Do you want to learn how to crochet? Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library in this two-hour introductory course on Mon., July 3, from 6-8 p.m. at the library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St. This event is designed for people ages 12 and up. Register for this event by visiting www.khcpl.org and clicking on Events.
TUESDAY
Sunstroke 74 Bike Ride
Join the Breakaway Bicycle Club on Tue., July 4, for its annual Sunstroke 74 Bike Ride. This flat to gently rolling course leaves from Sun King Kokomo Brewery, 500 N. Buckeye St., at 8 a.m. and will take riders past or through several north central Indiana landmarks and back to a brick road finish around 3 p.m. This is traditionally a very hot ride, so bring plenty of water. Visit https://www.breakaway.club/events for more information.
Independence Day at the Museum
Admission to the Howard County Historical Museum and Seiberling Mansion, 1200 W. Sycamore St., will be free to all veterans on Tue., July 4, from 1-4 p.m. For more information, visit www.howardcountymuseum.org
Fireworks at the Fairgrounds
The annual Fourth of July fireworks show presented by Greentown Lions Club will take place on Tue., July 4 at nightfall at Howard County Fairgrounds in Greentown. Patrons are asked to stay in or around their cars and to not set off personal fireworks. Visit www.howardcofair.com/fireworks for additional information.
WEDNESDAY
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., July 5, from 10-10:45 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.
Discovery Center: Crafts
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., July 5, have fun with crafts at the library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St., from noon until 2 p.m. This event is designed for children ages 8-13.
Caravan of Growing Readers
Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library for a weekly adventure of friendship, kindness, and community with the Caravan of Growing Readers. Each session will feature activities involving music, STEM, and art. The next session is Wed., July 5, from 12:30-1:30 p.m. at the library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St.
Water Spray
The Kokomo Parks and Recreation Department and the Kokomo Fire Department will hold a free water spray at Lafayette Park, 919 N. Korby St., on Wed., July 5, from 1-3 p.m. All ages are welcome to attend and participate. For additional information, call 765-456-7275.
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. An opening reception will be held on Wed., July 5, from 3-5 p.m.
Digital Den: DIY Paper Flowers
If you love books and flowers, this is the craft for you! Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library on Wed., July 5, from 5-6 p.m. at the Digital Den, 220 N. Union St. In this class, you will learn how to make beautiful paper flowers from old book pages using the Cricut Maker!
Writers Group
The Kokomo Howard County Public Library will hold a Writers Group for amateur fiction writers on Wed., July 5, from 5-8 p.m. at the library’s south branch, 1755 E. Center Road. Write something to submit and critique. Adults who enjoy writing and want honest feedback are invited to attend.
Park Band Summer Concerts
The Kokomo Park Band kicks off its Summer Concert season on Wed., July 5, at 7:30 p.m. in Highland Park. Conducted by Jay Gephardt the July 5 performance is themed “Let Freedom Ring” and is sponsored by Bayliff, Harrigan, Cord, Maugans, and Cox. The band performs each Wednesday in the summer.
THURSDAY
Hedgehog Hannah
What animals will you get to meet and learn about? Maybe a fox or an alligator? You'll have to wait and see. Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library on Thu., July 6, to learn why it's important to keep as many animals in the wild as we can. This event takes place at the library’s Russiaville branch, 315 Mesa Dr., from 10-11 a.m. and at the South branch, 1755 E. Center Road, from 2-3 p.m.
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 6, 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., July 6, 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: Hex Bugs
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 6, have fun with Hex Bugs 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.
Water Rate Field Hearing
The Indiana Regulatory Commission will hold a field hearing on a possible water rate hike requested by Indiana-American Water for all customers at the Gary Public Library and Cultural Center on Thu., July 6, at 6 p.m. Those who cannot attend in person but who want to let their opinion be known may submit written comments concerning the proposed $14/month rate increase to the Office of Utility Consumer Counselor at https://www.in.gov/oucc/watersewer/key-cases-by-utility/indiana-american-water-co-rates/#Public_Comments
Summer Slumber Party
Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library on Thu., July 6, for a Summer Slumber Party. Visit the library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St., from 6:30-7:30 p.m. for s’mores, stories, and songs in your PJs!
Kokomo Jackrabbits
The Kokomo Jackrabbits will play a home game vs. the Battle Creek Cattle Jacks on Thu., July 6, at Kokomo Municipal Stadium. Game time is 7:05 p.m.; For tickets, call 457-5000 or visit www.kokomojackrabbits.com.
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 7, 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 colored pencil drawing classes for children ages 9-12 on Fri., July 7, and July 14 at the Artworks Gallery, 210 N. Main St. The classes run from 1-2:30 p.m. each session. 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.
Trail Tours
Trail Tours are staff-led community bike rides that explore mapped sections of the different trails that Kokomo has to offer. The tour begins on Fri., July 7, at 6 p.m., starting at the Bike Share Station in downtown Kokomo, 307 S. Main St. Call 456-7275 for additional information.
Kokomo Jackrabbits
The Kokomo Jackrabbits will play a home game vs. the Battle Creek Cattle Jacks on Fri., July 7, at Kokomo Municipal Stadium. Game time is 7:05 p.m.; For tickets, call 457-5000 or visit www.kokomojackrabbits.com.
SATURDAY
Sam’s Club 1st Annual Car Show
A car show to benefit Riley Hospital for Children will be held in the Sam’s Club parking lot, 1917 E. Markland Ave., from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. on Sat., July 8. Registration starts at 9 a.m. Prizes will be awarded at 3 p.m. There is a $10 registration fee. All cars, all years are welcome to enter. The show will take place rain or shine.
Dog Days of Summer
The Kokomo Humane Society will host a Dog Days of Summer fair on Sat., July 8, from 11 a.m. until 4 p.m. at the Humane Society “fairgrounds,” 729 E. Hoffer St. There will be kids’ games, fantastic food, and spectacular canine performances. Tickets for the event Are $10 for adults and $5 for kids. Pets attend free. Proceeds from the event will support the humane society’s pet assistance program. There will be vendors, a 50/50 raffle, and activities for pets, kids, and adults.
Craft Corner
Chase away the night with some cozy lantern light! Visit the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s south branch, 1755 E. Center Road, on Sat., July 8, from 1-2 p.m. to add your own personal touch to a wood lantern with paint, glitter, gems, and more. Register by visiting www.khcpl.org and clicking on Events or by calling any KHCPL location.
Clue! Who Dunnit?
Teens will have the chance to don a new identity and play a game of Clue! Solve a mystery with the Kokomo Howard County Public Library on Sat., July 8, from 3-5 p.m. The event takes place at the library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St. Register by visiting www.khcpl.com and clicking on Events.
Kokomo Summer Concert Series
The Kokomo Summer Concert Series Firefighters Jeep Jam featuring Los Colognes with opener Joshua Powell Band will take place on Sat., July 8, in Foster Park. Characterized by its ‘70s-style rock, Los Colognes infuses country and classic rock elements in their own unique sound. Free admission. Music starts at 6 p.m. For more information, visit www.kokomosummerseries.com.
Kokomo Jackrabbits
The Kokomo Jackrabbits will play a home game vs. the Battle Creek Cattle Jacks on Sat., July 8, at Kokomo Municipal Stadium. Game time is 7:05 p.m.; For tickets, call 457-5000 or visit www.kokomojackrabbits.com.
COMING SOON
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.
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.
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.
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. Mullberry 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Jim “Moose” Carden Kids Fishing Clinic
The annual Jim “Moose” Carden Kids Fishing Clinic will take place on July 17, 18, 20, and 27 from 6:30-9 p.m. at Kokomo High School, 2501 S. Berkley Road. The tournament will take place July 29 at Kokomo Reservoir Park, 100 North, 500 East, from 7 a.m. until noon. Participants will receive a t-shirt. Rods, reels, and other fishing items will be donated to the kids.
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.
GVFD Open House
The Galveston Volunteer Fire Department, 101 E. Jackson St., will hold an open house on Sat., July 29, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Meet the firefighters. Learn about fire safety. See the fire apparatus displays. Address signs and t-shirts will be offered. The Young America Lions Club will serve ice cream, and the Lewis Cass Kings Band will serve elephant ears. Lunch will be provided from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m.
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.
Drums Along the Wildcat
The City of Kokomo and the Kokomo Native Initiative are proud to announce the first-ever pow-wow in Kokomo. Drums Along the Wildcat will take place on Sat., Sept. 23, from 10 a.m. until dark in Foster Park. The event is free to the public. A Grand Entry will take place at 11 a.m. and at 6 p.m. There will be a break for dinner at 4:30 p.m. For additional information, contact Sally Tuttle at 765-438-6652 or by emailing tuttle.ss@comcast.net.