What's Happening This Week?
Events taking place in Kokomo and Howard County from March 24-30 and beyond
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TODAY
Kokomo Bobkats Basketball
The Kokomo Bobkats will play a home game against the Cincinnati Warriors on Sun., March 24, at 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 $200 for lower bowl and $100 for upper bowl. Buy season tickets and merchandise anytime at 2989 S. Webster St. or by visiting www.kokomobobkats.com.
Eclipse Insights with Dr. Motl
Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library as it visits the IU Kokomo Observatory, 2660 S. Washington St., where Dr. Patrick Motl will share insights on the upcoming solar eclipse. The event takes place on Sun., March 24, from 7-8 p.m. Weather permitting, stargazers will get the opportunity to use the observatory’s telescopes.
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., March 25, 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.
Homeschool Book Club
Homeschoolers in 1st through 6th grade, 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., March 25, from 10-11 a.m. at Kokomo Humane Society’s Cat Café, 729 E. Hoffer St. Call 765-626-0830 for the current booklist.
Spring Fling: Play Dough Play
Staying home for Spring Break? Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library at its Russiaville branch, 305 Mesa Dr., on Mon., March 25, for Play Dough Play from 10-11 a.m. This event is designed for children ages 0-11.
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., March 25, 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.
Spring Fling: Big Games
Spend Spring Break playing, making, and building at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s Spring Fling: Big Games event on Mon., March 25, from 2-4 p.m. at the library’s Russiaville branch, 305 Mesa Dr. This event is designed for children ages 3-11.
BP Screenings at the Library
Community Howard Regional Health offers free blood pressure screenings at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library. This is an opportunity to ask questions about chronic diseases and medication management and to receive information on primary care doctors as well as receive a blood pressure check. The next screening will take place on Mon., March 25, from 3:30-5:30 p.m. at the library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St.
Celebrate Holi
Join Indiana University Kokomo, 2300 S. Washington St., as it celebrates Holi, the Indian Festival of Colors, on Mon., March 25, from 4-6 p.m. The celebration begins with a presentation in KO 175, followed by outdoor festivities at The Wellhouse. Wear white clothing to participate. Email jrpico@iu.edu for additional information.
IU Kokomo Movie Night
Join Indiana University Kokomo, 2300 S. Washington St., as it holds a screening of “American Fiction” as part of its Movie Night on Mon., March 25. The event begins at 5:30 p.m. in KC 130 AC. This free event will feature a discussion after the movie.
Dark as Dusk
The IU Kokomo KEY Academy Series “Dark as Dusk” continues on Mon., March 25 in Kresge Auditorium from 7-8 p.m. Get an inside look at a once-in-a-lifetime celestial event. Join IU Kokomo faculty and friends for an engaging discussion leading up to the total solar eclipse on April 8, 2024. The March 25 event will focus on Eclipses from Different Perspectives. Cost is $25. Registration is required by contacting Marsha McKinley, 765-455-9221 or mlmckin@iuk.edu.
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
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 .
Spring Fling: Play Dough Play
Staying home for Spring Break? Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library at its main branch, 220 N. Union St., on Tue., March 26, for Play Dough Play from noon until 1 p.m. This event is designed for children ages 3-11.
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.
IU Kokomo High School Art Exhibit
The Indiana University Kokomo Art Gallery, 2300 S. Washington St., room KA102, hosts the 26th annual High School Art Exhibition through March 27. The exhibition features art from area high school juniors and seniors. The gallery is open Mon.-Thu. from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m.
Spring Fling: Craft-a-Palooza
Staying home for Spring Break? Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library at its main branch, 220 N. Union St., on Wed., March 27, for Craft-a-Palooza from noon until 1 p.m. This event is designed for children ages 3-11.
Digital Den: Stencil Eclipse
Want something fun to commemorate the total solar eclipse in April? In this class, the Kokomo Howard County Public Library will offer the materials to create stencils to help make painting a beautiful picture of the eclipse a breeze. This event takes place on Wed., March 27, from 1-2 p.m. in the library’s Digital Den, 220 N. Union St. Join the waitlist for this activity by visiting www.khcpl.org and clicking on Events.
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
Spring Fling: Springtime Crafts
Staying home for Spring Break? Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library at its Russiaville branch, 305 Mesa Dr., on Thu., March 28, for Springtime Crafts from 10-11 a.m. This event is designed for children ages 3-11.
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., March 28, 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., March 28, 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.
Manga and Anime Club
Interested in manga and anime? Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library on Thu., March 28, from 6:30-7:30 p.m. for part 2 of its Fruits Basket event. Watch Fruits Basket and then create a themed craft. The event takes place at the library’s south branch, 1755 E. Center Road. Register by visiting www.khcpl.org and clicking on Events.
FRIDAY
Eclipsing Colors: Solar Eclipse Painting
This Kokomo Howard County Public Library project combines science and art, allowing kids to express their creativity while learning about the total solar eclipse. The event takes place on Fri., March 29, from 2:30-3:30 p.m. at the library’s south branch, 1755 E. Center Road. Register by visiting www.khcpl.org and clicking on Events, or by calling any KHCPL location.
Glo Swim and a Movie
Back by popular demand, the Kokomo Family YMCA will hold a Glo Swim and Movie Night on Fri., March 29, beginning at 6:30 p.m. This members-only event will feature swimming with glow lights, glow balls, glow sticks, and a family-friendly movie on an inflatable screen. Cost is $2, and spots are limited. Register by visiting https://operations.daxko.com/Online/5014/ProgramsV2/Search.mvc?category_ids=TAG19799
Smackdown XIII
The Kokomo Speedway announces the return of the Elliott’s Custom Trailer and Carts Sprint Car Smackdown XIII on Aug. 22-24. Ticket sales for the general public have begun. The three-day pass includes reserved seating and a pit pass if purchased by March 29. Single-day general admission tickets will be on sale each race day for $30 on Thursday and Friday, and $40 on Saturday. To purchase tickets, call 779-230-1310 or email smackdowntix@gmail.com.
SATURDAY
Community Easter Egg Hunt
The Carver Community Center, 1030 N. Purdum St., will hold a Community Easter Egg Hunt on Sat., March 30, at 1 p.m. There will be hunts held for three age groups: 3-4 years old, 5-7 years old, and 8-10 years old. This party for children is free and open to the entire community. For additional information, contact Willie Stroman at 765-860-3197 or Clyde Johnson at 765-480-1202.
Crossroads Easter Gatherings
Crossroads Community Church will hold five Easter Gatherings on March 30-31. The entire community is invited to attend any or all of the events. A Gathering will be held on Sat., March 30, at 5 p.m. at the Crossroads south location, 4254 S., 00 EW. Gatherings on Sun., March 31, take place at 9:15 a.m. and 10:45 a.m. at the south location and the downtown location, 116 N. Main St.
Kokomo Art Association Photo Show
The Kokomo Art Association presents the 2024 Photo Show through March 30 at Artworks Gallery, 210 N. Main St. For additional information, contact Cheryl at kokomoartassociation2014@gmail.com.
COMING SOON
Free Tax Prep Service
The United Way serving Howard and Tipton Counties is offering free tax preparation services to the community. The tax preparation service uses IRS-certified tax preparers and guarantees you will receive 100 percent of your refund, with no fees or interest. The United Way’s tax preparers will also e-file your return and provide free Earned Income Tax Credit and Child Tax Credit screenings. Pick up a packet which has instructions on what information needs to be provided. Complete the forms in the packet and return it to any of these sites: Kokomo Howard County Public Library Downtown, 220 N. Union St.; Kokomo Howard County Public Library South, 1755 E. Center Road; Kokomo Howard County Public Library Russiaville, 305 Mesa Dr.; Greentown Public Library, 421 S. Harrison St.; Tipton Public Library, 127 E. Madison St. For additional information, call 765-450-7619 or email freetaxprep@unitedwayhoco.org .
Egg Your House
“Alz You Need is Love and a Pair of Sneakers,” a Walk to End Alzheimer’s team, presents its third annual Egg Your House event. Get ready to have your yard turned into an Easter egg wonderland. Order your pre-filled eggs to be hidden in your yard or dropped off, courtesy of the Easter bunny. The cost is $1 per egg, and the eggs can be delivered before, on, or after Easter Sunday, March 31. All participants will be entered into a prize drawing. Call 765-860-4360 or 765-431-8330 with your delivery date, address, and amount. Cash, check, and Cashapp accepted before or during delivery. All donations go to the Alzheimer’s Association.
Solidarity Car, Truck and Bike Show
Solidarity Community Federal Credit Union, 201 E. Southway Blvd., will hold its 14th annual Car, Truck and Bike Show on Sat., June 8, at 11 a.m. Registration on the day of the event will take place from 9 a.m. until noon. Early registration begins on April 1 by visiting www.solfcu.org. There will be more than 35 awards given out, and the first 50 registrants receive a free Solidarity Car Show t-shirt.
First Friday Lunch and Learn
Join Community Howard Regional Health for its monthly First Friday Lunch and Learn event on Fri., April 5, from 12:10-12:50 p.m. at the Kokomo Family YMCA, 114 N. Union St. The April topic will be Hospice vs. Palliative Care: Making the Right Choice. Paradigm health will explain the differences and how to decide what care is best for your loved one and when those decisions need to be made. Free lunch is provided to those who register by April 1. Register by calling 800-550-1266 or visiting www.ecommunity.com/FirstFriday .
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 2, from 9 a.m. until noon at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St.
Art Glass Exhibition
The Kokomo Art Association will host an Art Glass Exhibition, featuring work from Kokomo Opalescent Glass, from April 2-27 at the Artworks Gallery, 210 N. Main St. The gallery is open Tuesday through Saturday from noon until 4 p.m.
Bad Art Night
Come relax at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library, 220 N. Union St., on Tue., April 2, from 3:30-5 p.m. to be creative without the worry of perfection. It’s Bad Art Night for teens and adults.
Digital Den Designs: Eclipse Wall Hanging
Celebrate the eclipse with the creation of a wall hanging featuring the phases of the upcoming eclipse. This event takes place on Wed., April 3, from 6-7:30 p.m. at the Kokomo Public Library’s Digital Den, 220 N. Union St., Join the waitlist for this event by visiting www.khcpl.org and clicking on Events.
Exploring the Cosmos
Embark on a journey through the wonders of space exploration with BJ Austin, president of IN Space LLC and a distinguished NASA Solar System Ambassador. This event will be held at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s south branch, 1755 E. Center Road, on Thu., April 4, from 7-8 p.m.
First Friday: Eclipse
The Kokomo Downtown District hosts First Friday: Eclipse on Fri., April 5, from 5:30-8 p.m. This free, arts-based, open house tour of beautiful downtown Kokomo features an eclipse theme with downtown venues catering their activities to the month’s theme. 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. Visit www.firstfridaykokomo.com for additional information.
Cricut Fun
Design a unique Mother’s Day card with the help of the Kokomo Howard County Public Library on Fri., April 5, from 6-7 p.m. This event will take place at the library’s Russiaville branch, 305 Mesa Dr. and will include access to the library’s Cricut Design Space.
Getting Down to Business
Have you ever wondered about the history or first locations of a favorite Kokomo business? Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library, 220 N. Union St., on Sat., April 6, from 1-2:15 p.m. and research Kokomo’s industrial heritage. Register for this event by visiting www.khcpl.org and clicking on events.
KPRD Spring Egg Hunts
The Kokomo Parks and Recreation Department will hold its 2024 Youth Spring Egg Hunt on Sat., April 6, at Northwest Park. The event starts at 1 p.m. and is free to all children ages 14 and under.
Spelljammer Academy
Celebrate the solar eclipse by joining the Kokomo Howard County Public Library on Sat., April 6, for Spelljammer Academy: Dungeons and Dragons in Space. This event is open to players of all skill levels, including beginners. The event runs from 3-9 p.m. at the library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St. Register by visiting www.khcpl.org and clicking on Events or by calling any KHCPL location.
KPRD Adult Egg Hunt
The Kokomo Parks and Recreation Department will hold an Adult Egg Hunt on Sat., April 6. This event is for people ages 18 and up, and a wristband is required for entry. Wristbands are $5 and can be purchased at the KPRD office in Highland Park. Cash only. The adult egg hunt will take place in Jackson Morrow Park, and the horn will blow to start the hunt at 8:30 p.m.
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.
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
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.
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.
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 .
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.
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
Prevent Child Abuse Annual Conference
The Family Service Association of Howard County will host its annual Prevent Child Abuse Conference on April 11. Save the date! The event will feature keynote speaker Ashley Bendiksen. For additional information, email grubers@fsahc.org .
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.
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.
Solidarity Scholarship
Dreaming of higher education but worried about the costs? Solidarity Community Federal Credit Union is here to support its members' academic aspirations with its Member Scholarship Program! Applications are now open until April 15 for its exclusive scholarship program, designed to empower members on their educational journey. Solidarity will award 7, $2,000 scholarships to area students. Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity! Find the requirements and apply online today: https://bit.ly/SolidarityScholarships
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.
Spring Book Sale
The Friends of the Library will hold its Spring Book Sale on April 19-20 at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s main branch, 220 N. Main St. On Fri., April 19, the sale will run from noon until 5 p.m. for members of the Friends of the Library only. On Sat., April 20, from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. the sale will be open to the public. Memberships in the Friends of the Library can be purchased on the days of the sale. Memberships are $5 for the individual, $10 for a family, and $100 for a lifetime membership. Purchase used books, DVDs, CDs, and Blu-Rays as part of the sale. Interested in volunteering for the Friends of the Library? Fill out this online form: https://www.volgistics.com/appform/1423193554
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.
Mother/Daughter Brunch and Kittens
The Kokomo Humane Society will hold a Mother and Daughter Brunch and Kitten Shower on Sun., April 28, from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. at the Elite Event Cener, 2820 S. Lafountain St. Indulge in delicious cuisine from Windmill Grill, try your luck at winning a Dreams to Reality Cake, cuddle up with adorable adoptable kittens, and capture precious moments with your daughter with a professional photo by Shelby Rooze Photography. The humane society will collect new items for kitten season and will recruit new fosters at the event. Tickets are $30 each and can be purchased by visiting https://www.eventbrite.com/e/mother-daughter-brunch-kitten-shower-tickets-841849302927?aff=oddtdtcreator&fbclid=IwAR1EAQhTp2C1mgm_-3nFmL98amupYXXMMjJXk-cn70fuHi0WO88SV8ptPaA
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory Auditions
Curtain Call Theatre for Children announces auditions will be held for its production of “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” on Sun., May 11, from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. at the Curtain Call Studio, 2114 N. Armstrong St. The performances will be July 19-20. Sign up for an audition slot by visiting www.kcctc.org . Audition sides and resources are available on the site. Those auditioning will be asked to prepare a vocal audition of 30-45 seconds and a monologue lasting one minute. Additional information about the audition is available on the website.
You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown
Curtain Call Theatre for Children will present “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown,” on May 16-18 at the Curtain Call Studio, 2114 N. Armstrong St. Shows take place at 7 p.m. each evening, along with a 2 p.m. matinee show on Sun., May 18. Reserved tickets are $15 in advance and $20 at the door. Tickets may be purchased by visiting www.kcctc.org .
The Widows Ride
Widows’ Purse presents the Widow’s Ride, a motorcycle excursion starting and ending at Harley-Davidson of Kokomo on Sat., June 15. Registration takes place from 10-11 a.m. Kickstands up at 11:10 a.m. The cost is $30 for riders and $15 for passengers. The event will include live music, food, and prizes. All types of bikes are welcome to participate. Widows’ Purse supports and empowers those experiencing widowhood to navigate the journey of healing, thriving, and living with purpose.