What's Happening This Week?

Events taking place in Kokomo, Howard County, and the surrounding area from Dec. 1-7, 2024

This article is brought to you by the Coca-Cola Bottling Co. of Kokomo. Discover a Recipe for Magic with Coca-Cola.

TODAY

Wrapping Volunteers Needed

The Mrs. Claus Foundation, a nonprofit devoted to giving gifts at Christmas to deserving families through generous donations from businesses and individuals, will hold a gift-wrapping event on Sun., Dec. 1, from 1-4 p.m. at Rhine Hall Entertainment and Events, 507 N. Union St. Volunteers are needed to wrap the more than 100 gifts destined for local families this Christmas season. Mrs. Claus also accepts donations of wrapping paper, gift bags, tape, scissors, tissue paper, and other supplies used to wrap gifts. Find Mrs. Claus’ Foundation on Facebook, and message them if you have a donation that needs to be picked up. Sign up to volunteer by visiting https://form.jotform.com/242044290614146

Tracy Silverman at The Coterie

Kokomo will have an opportunity to experience a melding of musical genres as Tracy Silverman, a pioneer of music performed with an electric violin, appears in concert on Sun., Dec. 1, at The Coterie, 107 W. Sycamore St. His band, The Tracy Silverman Project featuring Roy “Futureman” Wooten, will begin playing at 8 p.m. Doors open at 7 p.m. For more information, visit www.kokomocoterie.com, call 765-450-5002, or email kokomogibson@gmail.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 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., Dec. 2. Caregivers with a baby ages birth to 12 months are welcome to participate. Older siblings are welcome to join also.

Meditation Mondays

Experience change, growth, and vitality through meditation with Raine and Sage Healing Center, 901 S. Courtland Ave. Sessions take place every first and third Monday of the month from 10-10:45 a.m. and are free to all. The next session takes place on Mon., Dec. 2.

Elf Boot Camp

Children visiting the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s Russiaville branch, 315 Mesa Dr., on Mon., Dec. 2, will learn gift wrapping, cookie decorating, and how to surprise friends and family with little acts of kindness. It’s all part of Elf Boot Camp, where kids will hear a story and sing a song to get into the holiday spirit. The event takes place from 10-10:45 a.m. and is designed for children ages 3-5, though all kids are welcome.

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., Dec. 2, from 10:30 a.m. until 6 p.m. Sewing machines provided. This event takes place at the library’s south branch, 1755 E. Center Road.

Recovery Café

Turning Point – A System of Care offers the Recovery Café, a time to connect with love, show respect, cultivate compassion, practice forgiveness, encourage growth, and to give something back. Meetings take place at Turning Point, 1234 N. Courtland Ave., every Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday, from 11:30 a.m. until 4 p.m. For additional information, visit https://bit.ly/3VRfRRL .

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. Mental Health Access Days are held each Tuesday from 9 a.m. until noon at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St.

Active Readers Club

Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library on Tue., Dec. 3, from 8:30-9:30 a.m., to stay active and share your favorite reads while walking around Russiaville. Inclement weather times will include an indoor workout at the library, 315 Mesa Dr.

Story Time: Peek-a-Boo Playdate

Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library, 220 N. Union St., on Tue., Dec. 3, from 10-10:30 a.m. for baby story time, a delightful program filled with playful rhymes, fun stories, beginner sign language, and songs for babies and toddlers. This event is for children ages 0-2.

Christmas at the Seiberling

Christmas at the Seiberling is happening now! The Seiberling Mansion is located at 1200 W. Sycamore St. It will be open for tours Tuesday through Sunday from 1-4 p.m. On Thursday and Friday evenings from 4-8 p.m. during the first three weeks of December, admission to the museum is free, thanks to community sponsors. A special Candlelight Night will be held on Sat., Dec. 21, from 5-8 p.m. Visit www.howardcountymuseum.org for more information.

Preschool STEAM

Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library on Tue., Dec. 3, from 2:30-3:15 p.m. for an afternoon of science, technology, engineering, art, and math activities safe for young scientists and artists. Dress for a mess. The event is designed for children ages 3-5 and takes place at the library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St.

Kindermusik Music and Movement

Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library for singing, dancing, and instrument play, which promote cognitive development! Kindermusik Music and Movement will be held at the library’s south branch, 1755 E. Center Road, on Tue., Dec. 3, from 3:30-4 p.m. for children ages 18 months to 5 years. Your child's movements stimulate the release of chemicals in the brain to support memory and learning!

Santa Paws

Santa Paws will visit the Kokomo Humane Society, 729 E. Hoffer St., on Tues., Dec. 3, from 4-6 p.m. Bring your pets or children for magical photos with Santa Paws and help spread holiday cheer by bringing an item from the Humane Society’s wish list or making a small donation as part of Giving Tuesday. The Humane Society’s wish list can be found by clicking here.

Teens’ Choice Book Club

Teens meet up once a month at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St., to discuss a book with their peers. Each month will have a theme. The next meeting is Tue., Dec. 3, from 5-6 p.m. Teens will talk about what they liked about their book, what they didn't, and how it fits the theme.

The Gift of Yoga

Give yourself the gift of time for yourself during the busy holiday season with a gentle yoga class on Tue., Dec. 3, from 6-7 p.m. The Kokomo Howard County Public Library will hold a session of Yoga Does a Body Good at the Jeff Stout Community Center, 650 N. West St., Russiaville.

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.

Story Time: Little Learners

Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library for a journey into the world of stories, rhythm, and creativity on Wed., Dec. 4, from 10-10:45 a.m. at the library’s south branch, 1755 E. Center Road. This delightful class is crafted for children ages 3 to 5, where imagination knows no bounds, and learning is an adventure.

Homeschool Hangout

Homeschoolers are welcome to come to the Kokomo Howard County Public Library, 220 N. Union St., on Wed., Dec. 4, from 12:30-1:30 p.m. to visit and socialize while engaging in fun STEM games and activities. This event is for children ages 3-13.

Creative Art Classes

The Carver Community Center, 1030 N. Purdum St., holds Creative Art Classes with Lisa Muhs every Wednesday and Friday from 2-3:30 p.m. Cost is $15 per week or $30 per month. To register, call 765-457-9318 or email kokomocarver@gmail.com.

Girls Who Code Book Club

Kids in third through fifth grades will read "The Friendship Code" by Stacia Deutsch and complete fun coding activities on Wed., Dec. 4, from 5-6:30 p.m. at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St. For more information call the facilitator at 765-626-0830.

Writers’ Group

The Kokomo Howard County Public Library will hold a Writers Group for amateur fiction writers on Wed., Dec. 4, 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.

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

Gingerbread Fun

The Kokomo Howard County Public Library will provide some holiday magic in Russiaville, 315 Mesa Dr., on Thu., Dec. 5, from 10-11 a.m., with a special story time, songs and a gingerbread house craft. This event is designed for children ages 2 and up.

Story Time: Little Learners

Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library for a journey into the world of stories, rhythm, and creativity on Thu., Dec. 5, from 11-11:45 a.m. at the library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St. This delightful class is crafted for children ages 3 to 5, where imagination knows no bounds, and learning is an adventure.

Blood Drive

The Kokomo Howard County Public Library will hold a blood drive on Thu., Dec. 5, from 1-6 p.m. at its south branch, 1755 E. Center Road. Help save a life. Register ahead of time by visiting www.khcpl.org and clicking on Events.

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 16, from 4-4:55 p.m.

Discovery Center: Osmos

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., Dec. 5, have fun with Osmos at the library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St., from 4-6 p.m. This event is designed for children ages 8-13.

Teen Writers’ Group

The Kokomo Howard County Public Library will hold a Writers Group for teen amateur fiction writers on Thu., May 25, 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.

The Amazing World of Virtual Reality

Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library at its Russiaville branch, 315 Mesa Dr., on Thu., Dec. 5, from 6-7 p.m. to explore the amazing world of virtual Reality. There also will be other STEM gadgets to play with at the event, which is designed for children ages 6-13. Register for this event by visiting www.khcpl.org and clicking on Events.

FRIDAY

Tiny Tykes Story Time

Journey into the world of early literacy, designed for children ages 0 to 2 and caregivers, with the Kokomo Howard County Public Library on Fri., Dec. 6, from 10-10:45 a.m. The library’s engaging, interactive event nurtures a love for reading, language development, and sensory exploration. This event takes place at the library’s south branch, 1755 E. Center Road.

Yarn: A Fiber Arts Group

Bring your crochet, knitting, needlework, or any fiber arts project to chill and spend time with other crafters on Fri., Dec. 6, from 12-1:30 p.m. at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library, 220 N. Union St.

Teen Holiday Party

Bring your friends to the Kokomo Howard County Public Library on Fri., Dec. 6, from 3-5 p.m. to celebrate the holiday season. Make crafts, play games, and nosh on snacks while supplies last. This event is for teens only.

Winterfest

Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library on Fri., Dec. 6, from 5-8 p.m. as it hosts a fun evening of holiday stories, games, and crafts at the Jeff Stout Community Center, 650 N. West St., in Russiaville. KHCPL staff will host story times at 5:15 p.m. and 6:15 p.m. Santa Mrs. Claus will arrive by fire truck at 5:30 p.m.

First Friday

Wear your warmest and ugliest (or at least most festive) holiday sweater, and head downtown for a holiday celebration on Fri., Dec. 6, from 5:30-8 p.m. There will be after-hours activities beginning at 8 p.m. This is a free, arts-based, open house tour of beautiful downtown Kokomo. Each month features a 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 the festive details.

Journey to Bethlehem Live Nativity

Join a guided walking tour to visit ancient Judea, interact with biblical characters, and follow the star to the manger on Fri., Dec. 6 and Sat., Dec. 7. The community of Kokomo is invited to experience the sights and sounds that shaped the story of Christ’s birth at Kokomo First Evangelical Presbyterian Church, 2000 W. Jefferson St., from 6-8:30 p.m. Admission is free and open to all ages.

Before the King

Experience the sights and sounds of Christmas with One Church, 2734 S. Washington St., on Fri., Dec. 6, and Sat., Dec. 7, beginning at 7 p.m. each night. This heartfelt performance brings the story of Christ’s birth to life through beautiful music and inspiring storytelling, creating a memorable experience for all who attend Visit https://www.onechurch.life/events for more information.

A Christmas Story: The Musical

Kokomo Civic Theatre promises not to shoot its eye out, but all bets are off when it comes to licking the flagpole. The troupe will perform A Christmas Story: The Musical on Fri., Dec. 6, and Sat., Dec. 7, at 7:30 p.m., and Sun., Dec. 8, at 2 p.m. at Havens Auditorium on the Indiana University Kokomo campus, 2300 S. Washington St. Tickets are $22 for adults, $20 for seniors age 60+, $18 for students through college, and $14 for children under age 12. Tickets can be obtained by visiting www.kokomocivictheatre.org .

Girls Winter Basketball League

Carver Community Center, 1030 N. Purdum St., will offer a Girls Winter Basketball League, beginning Dec. 8 and running through Jan. 12, 2025. Tune up your game for the school basketball season. There will be grade divisions for the teams: 3^rd-5^th grade and 6^th-8^th grade. Games will be played on Sunday afternoons. Registration is $50 per person or $175 per team. The registration deadline is Dec. 6. To register, text “winter league” to 317-529-7504.

SATURDAY

Breakfast with Santa

You’re invited to a sausage and pancake breakfast with Santa Claus on Sat., Dec. 7! Visit with Santa, have your picture taken, and sign up for door prizes at this special event, sponsored by the Greentown Volunteer Fire Co. and Brad Howell Ford. Photos by John Custer Photography. The breakfast takes place from 8-11 a.m. at the Howard County Fairgrounds, 610 E. Payton St. This is a free event. However, non-perishable food items will be collected and then donated to the Greentown Lions Club for distribution to local families in holiday food baskets.

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., on Sat., Dec. 7, from 11 a.m. until noon.

Wintertyme Village

The first Wintertyme Village takes place at Kokomo Municipal Stadium, 400 S. Union St. The village will be open Saturdays from 2-7 p.m. and Sundays from 1-7 p.m. Admission is free. The holiday-themed village will be closed on parade night, Dec. 7, though vendors will be able to set up downtown on the square for the parade. Planned activities will take place every night in the village. Some activities will include decorating a Christmas cookie with Mrs. Claus, writing letters to Santa, and visits with Santa in the Santa House. In addition to the Frozen Sandlot ice skating operating during regular hours, movies may be shown on the stadium’s Jumbotron. Also, several commercial lighted and 3D displays will be set up along the Stadium’s walking path.

Kokomo Christmas Parade

The City of Kokomo’s annual Christmas Parade, presented by Indiana Heartland Federal Credit Union, will take place Sat., Dec. 7, in downtown Kokomo. The fun begins at 4 p.m. with train rides, miniature farm animals, Elf Bingo, carolers, and of course, Santa Claus, and the parade will begin at 6:30 p.m.

Square Dancing Date Night

The local chapter of Better Together will hold a fun-filled night of square dancing at the Legacy Barn, 951 N, 600 W, on Sat., Dec. 7, from 6:30-8 p.m. No experience necessary. Lessons will be given. No childcare offered for this event. Sign up in advance by clicking here.

The Pub & Grub Comedy Tour

Rhine Hall Entertainment and Event Venue, 507 N. Union St., welcomes the Pub & Grub Comedy Tour to Kokomo on Sat., Dec. 7. The event includes two shows, beginning at 7:30 p.m. and 9:30 p.m., featuring comedians Larry Reeb and Andy Gunnin, with guest emcee Randy Maurer. Tickets are available now for $20 or $25 at the door on the day of show. For more information about the featured comedians, visit www.barcomictix.com.