First Friday Kokomo: A Family Experience

First Friday provides a great opportunity to bring your family to Downtown Kokomo.  While we have attended before, I thought I would share our family’s experience during last month’s First Friday in photos.

Our adventure started at Artworks Gallery.  We looked at the beautiful artwork on display and enjoyed watching the local artist demonstrations.  There is so much to see on both floors!

Artworks Gallery

 

Then, we headed to Planet Mind and Kokomo Toys & Collectibles (two of my son’s favorite downtown stores!)  He made an edible craft while at Planet Mind.  We took our time exploring both shops (while he made mental notes of the items he wants to add on his Christmas list already!)

Planet Mind

When we left Planet Mind, we ran into a couple of interesting characters on the sidewalk – pirates!  Well, not real pirates as my son thought.  They were promoting an upcoming event in Kokomo and drew quite a bit of attention!

Re-enactors

 

Some of the Kokomo Downtown Farmers’ Market vendors were there.  We shopped and enjoyed samples.  And learned more about the weekly market (and brand new Little Sprouts program for kids.)  It felt like a festival!

Farmers' Market vendors


 Farmers' Market booth

As we walked around, we stopped to listen to great, live music performed on Walnut Street.  Musicians from the Sound of Music’s Rockstar Academy were playing.


Live Music

 

Sound of Music was celebrating its 30 year anniversary.  So, we helped them celebrate by joining the party!

Sound of Music

 

Next, my son got his face painted (with a mischievous moustache!) and got a balloon animal hat made.  Of course, he requested an elephant – his favorite animal!

Balloon Animals
There was so much to see and do!  The restaurants were busy, and the flowers were in full bloom.  Downtown was the perfect setting to enjoy a Friday evening.

First Friday crowd
After several more stops and looking at the “Chalk the Block” sidewalk artwork, it was finally time to go home.  And make plans to attend the next First Friday!

Balloons & Fun

 

First Friday is held year-round on the first Friday of every month from 5:30-9:00 p.m.  While the activities change each month, you can bet you will find artists, music, and tons of fun in Downtown Kokomo!  Visit www.firstfridaykokomo.com to learn more.  The next First Friday “A Tribute to Innovation” will be held on July 4th, where you can get your pic in the Pioneer! Hope to see you there!

Experience Living History at Koh-Koh-Mah

The Koh-Koh-Mah & David Foster Living History Encampment will be held in Wildcat Valley this weekend, September 18-19, 2010.  Food, live music, vendors, a variety of demonstrations, strolling fiddler, style show, children’s parade, and a French & Indian battle re-enactment are among some of the features offered during this annual event.  Visitors will also have the chance to hear Chief Koh-Koh-Mah speak about the battles his ancestors fought and will learn more about the history of the Kokomo area.  A full schedule of events is listed at www.KohKohMah.com

Wildcat Valley is located at 1000 West 100 South in western Howard County, approximately 10 miles west of Kokomo.  Hours are Saturday 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. & Sunday 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.  Admission is $5 adults & $4 seniors & students.  Kids ages 5 & under are admitted free.  The event is rain or shine, and there is plenty to see and do for the entire family!  For more information, visit their website.