Kokomo Chocolate Celebration

About the Event

Indulge your senses in Kokomo's sweetest tradition at the Kokomo Chocolate Celebration, a decadent delight that transforms One Church Kokomo into a haven of chocolate bliss. This family-friendly extravaganza brings together local businesses, bakers, and chocolatiers offering an irresistible array of treats, from rich truffles and cake pops to creamy shakes and gourmet mocktails—all to support Samaritan Caregivers, a vital community organization aiding those in need. What makes it special is the joyful fusion of indulgence and giving back: tickets unlock a world of flavors, silent auctions spark friendly bidding wars, and the buzzing atmosphere hums with laughter, chatter, and the unmistakable aroma of melted chocolate. Families, couples, and chocolate lovers flock here for the pure fun of sampling endless varieties, discovering hidden gems from home-based vendors, and feeling the warmth of community spirit—it's the perfect excuse to savor life's sweeter moments while contributing to a worthy cause. ## The Surrounding Area
Nestled in Howard County, Kokomo is a welcoming Midwestern gem in north-central Indiana, blending small-town charm with industrial heritage and modern vibrancy. Home to about 60,000 friendly residents, the city boasts a rich automotive legacy—think early innovations from pioneers like Elwood Haynes—making it a hub for history buffs. The event at One Church Kokomo (2734 S. Washington St.) sits in a convenient south-side spot, close to everyday conveniences like shopping at Maple Crest Center. Visitors will love nearby attractions such as the Kokomo Automotive Museum, showcasing vintage cars and local innovation stories, or the scenic Howard County 9/11 Memorial for a reflective pause. Families can explore the Kokomo Beach water park or stroll the beautiful Foster Park with its playgrounds and trails. Dining shines with diverse options: grab hearty Mexican at Hacienda, cozy up for burgers at Windmill Grill, or sip coffee at Big Ben. Howard County's rolling farmlands and easy access via I-65 make it an inviting stop, whether you're road-tripping from Indianapolis (just an hour north) or Lafayette—perfect for turning your chocolate adventure into a full day of Hoosier hospitality. ## Activities & Attractions
This chocolate lover's paradise overflows with temptations and fun for all ages:

• Chocolate Tastings Galore: Redeem tickets for bites from dozens of local stars, like J. Edwards Fine Chocolates' mint chocolate chip cake, Katie’s Bakery truffles, Mama Karen’s award-winning brookies, or Windmill Grill’s salted caramel bars—plus shakes, cake pops, dirt pudding, and s’mores cannelloni.
• Silent Auction: Bid on 13+ themed baskets stuffed with goodies from donors like Big Ben Coffee, Simpson Honey Farm, and The Spa, raising over $1,200 in past years.
• Vendor Booths: Browse non-chocolate gifts, local crafts, home-based business wares, and Samaritan Caregivers' info booth to learn about their mission.
• Special Features: Hunt for crocheted hearts via Facebook clues at sponsor spots, enjoy a food truck (like The Middle of Nowhere’s Carmel Delight cookies) outside, and snag limited tote bags with a donation.
• Critics’ Choice Judging: Local celebs like Mayor Tyler Moore and radio personalities sample and crown top treats.
  The vibe is lively yet relaxed, with something sweet for every palate—arrive hungry and ready to explore! ## Schedule & Logistics
  Mark your calendar for Friday, May 1, 2026, from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM—doors open at 11:00 AM, so come early for the freshest picks before favorites vanish. The silent auction runs until 1:00 PM in the main area, building excitement toward close. Admission is free, but purchase tasting tickets at the door (one ticket = one chocolate item) for seamless sampling. Practical perks include a free shuttle from Maple Crest Shopping Center parking lot—look for the Chocolate Celebration sign and score a bonus free ticket per rider to beat the crowds. Plenty of on-site parking awaits, though shuttle users help ease traffic. It's a quick, three-hour window of pure joy, designed for easy family drop-ins. ## History & Heritage
  Born from community heart, the Kokomo Chocolate Celebration has sweetened Howard County for years as an annual first-Friday-in-May staple, founded by Samaritan Caregivers to fund their caregiving services for the vulnerable. Starting small, it blossomed with volunteer passion—over 80 helpers per event, including judges from One Church, local media, and city leaders. Growth shines through innovations like home-based vendors, food trucks, scavenger hunts, and booming auctions that draw generous bids. Generous sponsors—from naming partner First Farmers Bank & Trust to bronze backers like Duke Energy and Rotary Club of Kokomo—underwrite the magic, letting proceeds fuel Samaritan's mission. It's more than an event; it's a beloved tradition weaving local businesses, families, and faith into Kokomo's fabric, promising fresh delights each year while honoring the town's spirit of neighborly support.