What's Happening This Week?
Events taking place in Kokomo and Howard County from Oct. 29-Nov. 4 and beyond
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TODAY
Sunday Funday Trunk or Treat
Join the Kokomo Humane Society, 729 E. Hoffer St., on Sun., Oct. 29, for its Sunday Funday Trunk or Treat event. From 1-4 p.m., come wearing your best costumes, and watch the shelter canine playgroups. Or visit the adoptable felines at the Cat Café. Oh, and get some candy!
Trunk N Treat
South Side Christian Church, 201 E Markland Ave, will have their annual Trunk n Treat celebration on Sunday, October 29 from 4-5:30pm. Decorated trunks with treats, games, picture opportunities and snacks will be available.
Dungeons and Desserts
Interested in Dungeons and Dragons in a cozy setting? Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library at its main branch, 220 N. Union St., on Sun., Oct. 29, from 1-5 p.m. for Dungeons and Desserts. Play through a session of Dungeons and Dragons that emphasizes role-playing and teamwork over combat. The event is inspired by the Howard County Reads novel, “Legends & Lattes,” by Travis Baldree. New and experienced Dungeons and Dragons players are welcome. Refreshments will be provided. Join the wait list for this event by visiting www.khcpl.org and clicking on Events.
Family Farm Adventures
The Kendall Family Farm Adventures Corn Maze and Pumpkin Patch will open Fridays from 5-9 p.m., Saturdays from 11 a.m. – 9 p.m., and Sundays from 12-6 p.m. through Oct. 29. The farm is located at 9717 East, CR 600 North, Greentown. Activities include a five-acre corn maze, a four-acre you-pick pumpkin patch, hayrides, a putt-putt golf course, a pedal kart track, live animals, a mini-straw maze, corn-filled sandboxes, yard games, concessions, a gift shop, and evening bonfires; For more information and admission prices, visit www.kendallfamilyfarmadventures.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 Mon., Oct. 30, 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: Little Learners
Introduce your little one to quality literature and the library in a fun, inviting way with age-appropriate activities on Mon., Oct. 30, from 10-10:30 a.m. at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s Russiaville branch, 305 Mesa Dr. This event is designed for children ages 3-5.
Homeschool Book Club
Homeschoolers, join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library as it reads and discusses books from a variety of genres, from fiction to graphic novels. The club will meet on Mon., Oct. 30, from 10-11 a.m. at the library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St. Call 765-626-0827 for the current booklist.
Trim-A-Tree Festival
The 30th Annual We Care Trim-A-Tree Festival begins Mon., Oct. 30, at 10 a.m. in the Markland Mall, 1114 S. 17th St. The festival is open during mall hours. The tree auction will be Sun., Nov. 12, at 5 p.m. Trees and wreaths will be on display until the auction begins. Vote for your favorites with donations to We Care. Free admission. Visit www.wecareonline.org/trim-a-tree for more information.
Solidarity Red Cross Blood Drive
Solidarity Community Federal Credit Union, 201 E. Southway Blvd., will host a blood drive for the American Red Cross on Mon., Oct. 30, beginning at 11 a.m. Step up and save lives. Make an appointment to give by visiting rcblood.org/46cGjKZ.
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., Oct. 30, 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., Oct. 30, 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.
Trunk or Treat
It’s spooky season, and Financial Center, 1935 S. Dixon Road, invites you to join them for a Trunk or Treat celebration on Mon., Oct. 30, from 4-7 p.m. For more information, contact Lindsey Powell at lpowell@fcfcu.com or by calling 765-434-5793.
Nurses in Recovery Support Group
Turning Point – System of Care will hold a Nurses in Recovery Support Group each Monday at the Turning Point offices, 1234 N. Courtland Ave., from 6-7 p.m. This group is approved by the Indiana Professionals Recovery Program. For additional information, call 765-860-8365.
Kokomo Youth Wrestling League
Registration is now open for the Kokomo Youth Wrestling League. All area students in Kindergarten through 5th grade are eligible to join. Learn wrestling fundamentals, including physical coordination, personal responsibility, mental resilience, leadership, and teamwork while having fun with friends. No experience is needed. The first callout practice will be held on Mon., Oct. 30, from 6-7:30 p.m. in the Kokomo High School wrestling room. To register, visit bit.ly/register2023youthwrestling . For additional information, contact Jacob Bough at 773-397-0772 or at jbough@kokomo.k12.in.us
Trunk or Treat
The Center Township Trustee’s Office, 213 E. Jefferson St., will hold its first Halloween Trunk or Treat on Mon., Oct. 30, from 6-8 p.m. This free event will include candy, games, and music and is open to the entire community.
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., Oct. 30, 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.
TUESDAY
Fall Straw Maze
Check out the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s Fall Straw Maze anytime in October at the library’s Russiaville branch, 315 Mesa Dr., from 9 a.m. until 8 p.m.
Book Buddy Book Club
Adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities - regardless of reading ability - can join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library on Tue., Oct. 31, 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.
Leadership and Mentoring Training
The Howard County Supervision Program, Kokomo Family YMCA, and First Friends Meeting of Kokomo will sponsor a “Fall Noon Book Study Leadership and Mentoring Training Opportunity Event with Mindful Meditation Session” every Tuesday from 11:45 a.m. to 1 p.m. from Oct. 31 to Nov. 21. The book that will be studied is “The Mentor Leader: Secrets to Building People and Teams That Win Consistently” by Coach Tony Dungy. There is no cost for this class with the exception that the participant will have to obtain a copy of the book and have the first two chapters read by the first class on Tue., Oct. 31, at 11:45 a.m. For more information, contact (765) 434-1701.
Artober: Calavera Mask
Celebrate Dia de los Muertos by creating your own calavera (skeleton) mask on Tue., Oct. 31, from 4-6 p.m. This event takes place at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St. Supplies will be limited and first come, first served.
Cougar Choir Sings
The IUK Cougar Choir will get everyone ready for Halloween by singing a medley from Nightmare Before Christmas! There will be candy and costumes! Join them on Tuesday, Oct. 31 at 4:30 p.m. in lower Alumni Hall at IU Kokomo, 2300 S. Washington St. The performance is free and open to the public.
Trick or Treat at the Library
Have a spookily good time by visiting the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s Russiaville branch, 305 Mesa Dr., on Tue., Oct. 31, from 5-7:30 p.m. This Trick or Treat celebration is designed for children ages 3-13. Take a last chance to navigate the straw maze. Check out the fun items hidden in a pinata at 6 p.m. in the library’s Nature Explore Outdoor Classroom.
Galveston Halloween Events
The town of Galveston will celebrate Halloween with a parade and trick or treating on Tue., Oct. 31. The Halloween parade, which will travel from the community center in the town park down Kenilworth Lane to the Early Learning Academy, begins lining up at 5 p.m. for a 5:30 p.m. start. Trick or Treat times are 6-8 p.m. There will be two trunk or treat locations at the Galveston First Baptist Church and the Early Learning Academy. Those participating as treat providers in Trunk or Treat at the Early Learning Academy can begin setting up at 5:30 p.m. There also will be an indoor activity at the academy.
Trunk N Treat
Fairview Baptist Church, 2108 E. Vaile Ave., will hold its indoor Trunk N Treat celebration on Tue., Oct. 31, from 6-8 p.m. The entire community is invited to visit in their best Halloween costumes for candy, treats, and fellowship.
KHS Haunted Trail
The Kokomo High School Environmental Club will hold a Haunted Trail on Tue., Oct. 31, from 6-9 p.m., in the Kokomo Schools Outdoor Lab, 2501 S. Berkley Road. Thrillseekers and nature enthusiasts will encounter eerie sounds and unexpected surprises. Tickets to this event are $10. Enter through the KHS soccer fields. Children under 14 years old must be accompanied by an adult. All proceeds will benefit the KHS Environmental Club.
Goodfellows Sign-Up
Applications for the 2023 Goodfellows Christmas program will be available online through Oct. 31 at www.goodfellowskokomo.org. Submit application as soon as possible. All communication concerning your application will be by email, including approval, denial, and if any other additional information or documents are needed for the process. Make sure your application is completed in full. Any application that is not correctly completed or is missing documents will be denied. You may be asked to submit additional information for your application. You will have seven days from the date of the email to provide the requested information, or your application will be disqualified. No applications will be accepted after Oct. 31 for any circumstance. For questions, feel free to check out the FAQ section of the Goodfellows website. You may also reach out via the Goodfellows Facebook page or by calling or texting 765-432-1143. When completing the registration, you will be given the choice to sign up for the Kokomo Fraternal Order of Police’s Cops for Kidz Partnered with Goodfellows, or the Goodfellows program. Both receive assistance from the U.S. Marine Corps’ Toys for Tots and Kohl’s.
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., on Wed., Nov. 1, 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., Nov. 1, 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.
Red Ribbon Christmas Boxes
The Kokomo Rescue Mission will begin taking applications for its Red Ribbon Christmas Box program on Wed., Nov. 1. This income-qualified program will accept applications through Nov. 28. Applicants should visit Grace United Methodist Church, 219 W. Mulberry St., at the following dates and times to make their application: Wed., Nov. 1, from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m.; Thu., Nov. 2, from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m. and 3-5 p.m.; Wed., Nov. 15, from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m. and 3-5 p.m.; 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.
Writers Group
The Kokomo Howard County Public Library will hold a Writers Group for amateur fiction writers on Wed., Nov. 1, 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.
Dino Stomp
Stomp, roar, and growl like a dinosaur on Wed., Nov. 1, from 6-7 p.m. at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St. Kids ages 3 and up will do the dinosaur stomp, make dino art, play triceratops ring toss, create paper pterodactyl puppets, and learn about amazing prehistoric creatures.
Korean Culture
Learn about the Korean food scene and how to use chopsticks. Plus, taste kimchi! Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library on Wed., Nov. 1, from 6-7 p.m. at its main branch, 220 N. Union St. This event is inspired by "Crying in H Mart" by Michelle Zauner, one of the 2023 Howard County Reads top 15 books.
Manga and Anime Club
Interested in manga and anime? Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library on Wed., Nov. 1, from 6:30-7:30 p.m. and come dressed as your favorite character! The event takes place at the library’s south branch, 1755 E. Center Road. Register by visiting www.khcpl.org and clicking on Events.
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 . Registration must be completed by Nov. 1 in order to guarantee a t-shirt. 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.
THURSDAY
Preschool Playgroup
Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library on Thu., Nov. 2, for a Preschool Playgroup. You and your child will enjoy activities while making new friends! Kids get to practice their social skills, and adults get to connect with other adults! Drop in any time between 10 and 11:30 a.m. at the library’s Russiaville branch, 305 Mesa Dr.
Senior Fair
A Golden Gatherings Senior Fair is planned for Thu., Nov. 2, at the City of Kokomo's Senior Citizens Center, 721 W. Superior St., in Foster Park from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m. Learn about services available to seniors in the area at this event, featuring informational booths from 1st Care Home Health Services, Aperion Care, the City of Kokomo, Compassus, the Five Star Residences of Northwoods, Silver Birch Living of Kokomo, SouthernCare Hospice Services, and Trilogy Health Services. Light refreshments and giveaways will be offered at the event. For additional information, contact Patty Thatcher, marketing director at Silver Birch, at 765-639-1664 or by emailing KokomoSales@silverbirchliving.com.
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., Nov. 2, from 11 a.m. until noon at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St. This event is designed for children ages 3-5.
Rapid Access Navigator
The Kokomo Howard County Public Library welcomes Turning Point System of Care to offer resources to support those with mental health and addiction challenges on Thu., Nov. 2, from noon until 5 p.m. No appointment is necessary. If you’re overwhelmed or simply need assistance stop by for Rapid Access Navigator Assistance at the library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St.
Dino Chomp
Celebrate dinosaurs by decorating cookies and chomping on them at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s south branch, 1755 E. Center Road, on Thu., Nov. 2, from 3:30-4 p.m. Dress for a mess. Register by visiting www.khcpl.org and clicking on Events or by calling any KHCPL location.
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., Nov. 2, from 4-4:50 p.m.
Teen Writers Group
The Kokomo Howard County Public Library will hold a Writers Group for teen amateur fiction writers on Thu., Nov. 2, 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.
Amazing World of Virtual Reality
Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library at its Russiaville branch, 305 Mesa Dr., on Thu., Nov. 2, to experience virtual reality. There will be other STEM gadgets available for play and discovery. The event takes place from 6-7 p.m. Register for this event by visiting www.khcpl.org and clicking on Events.
Greentown Historical Society annual meeting
The Greentown Historical Society will hold its annual meeting and dinner on Thu., Nov. 9. The event will begin at 6 p.m. at the Co-Alliance Community Building on the Howard County Fairgrounds in Greentown. The guest speaker for the meeting will be Brad Howell. The meal will be catered by Main Occasions Catering of Greentown. The cost for dinner is $25 per person. The meal will consist of two meats, ham and chicken, side dishes, and a drink included. Reservations are required for the meal and must be made by Thu., Nov. 2. Make reservations by calling 765-626-0164 or mailing the reservation form and a check to: Greentown Historical Society, PO. Box 313, Greentown, IN 46936. The facility is handicap accessible.
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., Nov. 3, 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.
First Friday Lunch and Learn
Join Community Howard Regional Health for a free lunch and learn health seminar on Fri., Nov. 3, at the Kokomo Family YMCA, 114 N. Union St. Sports medicine physician Dr. Joe Kary will discuss exercise and its benefits on quality and length of life. The first 60 to register by Oct. 29 will receive a free boxed lunch, courtesy of Silver Birch Assisted Living. Register today at: https://bit.ly/46XK4Ei or by calling 800-550-1266.
Drums Alive! Homeschool Beats
Build a sense of community while doing cardio at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s Drums Alive! – Family Beats session on Fri., Nov. 3, from 2:30-3:15 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.
First Friday
The Kokomo Downtown Association presents First Friday “Shop & Stroll” on Fri., Nov. 3, from 5:30-9 p.m. Head downtown for a night of shopping and open houses ahead of the holiday season. There will be an arts-based open house tour of downtown Kokomo; Visitors to the downtown area during the event will find discounts and activities at shops and restaurants, and live music, public art, family-friendly activities and more. Call 765-457-5301 or visit www.firstfridaykokomo.com for additional information.
Local Author Fair
The Kokomo Howard County Public Library will hold an author fair as part of the November First Friday on Nov. 3 in downtown Kokomo. Support local authors by checking out and purchasing their work. Registration is open now for tables at this event, which runs all day at the library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St. To register, visit www.khcpl.org and click on Events.
SATURDAY
Autumn Festival
The Indiana University Kokomo Staff Council will hold its Autumn Festival on Sat., Nov. 4, from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m., in the IU Kokomo Kelley Student Center, 2300 S. Washington St. The festival will showcase up to 100 local artisans with home décor, boutique, jewelry, glass, and much more. Free parking and admission.
Howard County Land Records
A special collection of new land records data for researchers will be made available at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St., On Sat., Nov. 4, from 9:30-11 a.m. To register for this event, visit www.khcpl.org and click on Events.
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., and its Russiaville branch, 305 Mesa Dr., on Sat., Nov. 4, from 11 a.m. until noon.
Whodunnit?
Teens will have the chance to don a new identity and play a live game of Clue at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library on Sat., Nov. 4, from 2-5 p.m. This event takes place at the library’s south branch, 1755 E. Center Road. Registration is required. Visit www.khcpl.org and click on Events to register.
COMING SOON
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!
Dino Stomp
Kids ages 3 and up will do the dinosaur stomp, make dino art, play triceratops ring toss, create paper pterodactyl puppets, and learn about amazing prehistoric creatures at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s Dino Stomp event on Mon., Nov. 6, from 3:30-4:45 p.m. The event is designed for children ages 3-11 and will take place at the library’s south branch, 1755 E. Center Road.
Suicide Prevention Training
Ivy Tech Community College in Kokomo, 1815 E. Morgan St., will hold two sessions for suicide prevention training from the QPR Institute. Learn the three simple steps to help anyone thinking about suicide. Learn how to make a positive difference in someone’s life. The classes take place in Ivy Tech’s Health Professions Center, Room H812. The first class is Mon., Nov. 6, from 4:45-5:45 p.m. RSVP for this course by visiting https://ivylife.ivytech.edu/event/9530804 . The second class is Tue., Nov. 7, from 11:30 a.m. until 12:30 p.m. RSVP for this course by visiting https://ivylife.ivytech.edu/event/9530683 .
YMCA Basketball
In any other state it is just basketball. In Indiana it is our passion. Let your child find that passion by registering them for the Kokomo Family YMCA’s fall summer basketball league! Not only will they learn the fundamentals, but they'll make friends and learn how to be a great teammate! League starts on Mon., Nov. 6, and is for ages 7-12! For more information or to register your child, click here: https://operations.daxko.com/Online/5014/ProgramsV2/Search.mvc?category_ids=TAG195
Alzheimer’s/Dementia Caregivers Support Group
The Alzheimer’s/Dementia Caregivers Support Group meets the first Tuesday of each month at Chapel Hill Christian Church, 2600 W. Alto Road, from 6:30-8 p.m. The next meeting takes place on Tue., Nov. 7. Enter the building from the east through Door 11. For additional information, contact Debby McCombs at 765-432-6546 or Michelle Sutton at 765-860-4360.
KHCPL Main Book Discussion
Expand your reading horizons by joining the Kokomo Howard County Public Library on Wed., Nov. 8, for engaging and lively discussions of books from different genres. This month’s book is “The Book of Two Ways,” by Judi Picoult. The discussion takes place at the library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St., from 10-11:30 a.m. Registration is required by visiting www.khcpl.org and clicking on Events.
Medicare Help
Have Medicare questions? Visit the second floor at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St., on Wed., Nov. 8, to get answers from SHIP Medicare counselors. For more info, call Samaritan Caregivers at 765-453-7611.