Kokomo was featured on FOX59’s Your Hometown series — and we couldn’t be more proud! The FOX59 team spent the day in downtown Kokomo during the 2025 Strawberry Festival, showcasing what makes our community special. From local businesses and thriving arts to the people who bring energy and heart to our city, the coverage offered a glimpse into the spirit of Kokomo.
Being highlighted in this statewide series is more than just a moment in the media — it’s a celebration of our community’s momentum, creativity, and growth. Whether you’re a longtime resident or someone discovering Kokomo for the first time, it’s exciting to see our city shine on a bigger stage.
👉 Watch the full coverage here
Here’s a look at how the FOX59 team spent the day exploring downtown during the 2025 Strawberry Festival, spotlighting the places, people, and traditions that make our community unique.
Kokomo Opalescent Glass – America’s oldest art glass factory
One standout moment from the coverage was the crew’s visit to Kokomo Opalescent Glass, America’s oldest art glass company still in operation. The reporters were captivated by the rich history and craftsmanship behind each piece of glass — and amazed to learn that Kokomo-made glass has been shipped around the world for more than a century.
Public tours of Kokomo Opalescent Glass are available and remain one of the most popular visitor experiences in town — and it’s easy to see why. From the molten glass in the furnace room to the vibrant panels and mosaics on display, it’s an unforgettable stop for residents and tourists alike.
Learn more about Kokomo Opalescent Glass and how to experience a factory tour here
Haynes International: A Legacy of Innovation
FOX59 took viewers inside Haynes International, one of Kokomo’s most storied and globally significant manufacturers. The segment explored how this major industry traces its roots all the way back to local inventor Elwood Haynes, whose pioneering work in metallurgy and early automobiles helped shape the future of modern manufacturing.
From those early innovations to today’s cutting-edge development of high-performance alloys used in aerospace, energy, and beyond, Haynes International remains a symbol of Kokomo’s lasting impact on the world. The FOX59 team highlighted both the company’s global reach and its deep local roots — showing how generations of Kokomo workers have built a legacy of excellence that continues today.
It’s another proud example of Kokomo’s role as a place where history, innovation, and industry come together.
Kokomo’s Automotive Legacy: Honoring the Past, Driving Into the Future
In another segment from FOX59’s Your Hometown series, the spotlight turned to Kokomo’s rich automotive heritage — and how that legacy is being brought to life in a bold, new way. The story highlights the city’s roots as one of the birthplaces of the American automobile and gives a first look at what’s coming next: a new automotive gallery and museum space being developed in the lower level of the Downtown Kokomo Conference Center, now under construction.
This new space will celebrate the innovation, engineering, and hometown pride that helped put Kokomo on the map — with a modern experience designed to educate, inspire, and set the conference center apart from traditional venues.
The center’s newly launched website includes early sneak peeks of the museum design, along booking info, and more. Learn more at kokomoconferencecenter.com
Kokomo’s automotive story isn’t just history — it’s still in motion!
Home of the Thunder: Kokomo Speedway in the Spotlight
FOX59 turned up the volume at Kokomo Speedway — one of Indiana’s most iconic dirt tracks. Known nationwide in the racing world, this Kokomo venue has hosted some of the biggest names in motorsports, drawing fans and talent from across the country to experience the high-speed action.
Having a track of this caliber right here in Kokomo is more than a thrill, it’s a point of pride. The Kokomo Speedway is a cornerstone of local tradition, community gathering, and national recognition, proving that Kokomo isn’t just part of the racing scene — it’s helping lead it.
The Art of Revitalization: Kokomo’s Creative Momentum
FOX59 took a colorful look at Kokomo’s growing arts scene — from vibrant murals to live performances and handcrafted works. While the video touches many corners of creative life, the message is clear: Kokomo’s artistic energy didn’t happen by accident.
The city’s commitment to the arts has played a powerful role in the revitalization of downtown, helping to transform once-quiet spaces into hubs of activity, culture, and community connection. Investments in public art, support for local makers, and events that center creativity have helped shape a downtown that feels alive — and uniquely Kokomo.
Whether you’re strolling past a mural, shopping a local gallery, or attending a downtown concert, you’re experiencing the impact of a city that believes in the power of art to bring people together and shape a stronger future.
Fueling Big Dreams: Small Business Success in Kokomo
FOX59 talked with a thriving local entrepreneur whose story is a testament to Kokomo’s strong support system for small businesses. From startup to success, her journey reflects what’s possible in a community that believes in investing in its people and their ideas.
Kokomo has built a reputation for being entrepreneur-friendly, with resources, mentorship, and programs that help turn ambition into impact. One example is The Drive, a business pitch competition hosted by Inventrek Tech Park, designed to give startups and high-growth companies a boost — helping to spur innovation and economic development right here in our own backyard.
In Kokomo, small businesses aren’t just welcomed — they’re championed. Because when local entrepreneurs thrive, our entire community grows stronger.
More than Strawberries: Annual festival is a catalyst for revitalization
This insightful segment explores why the Strawberry Festival is so much more than just a fun annual event — it’s a vital fundraiser that helps support downtown revitalization efforts in Kokomo. Over its 27 years, the festival has grown tremendously, becoming a beloved tradition that brings the community together while raising funds for important projects, including public art initiatives that brighten and enrich our city.
The festival’s success is a testament to the power of community spirit and creativity, showing how a local event can make a lasting impact on the heart of downtown Kokomo.
Kokomo’s Momentum: Building the Future with New Investments
Kokomo Mayor Tyler Moore explores the surge of energy and growth sweeping through Kokomo following the announcement of major StarPlus Energy’s EV battery plant developments in the area. The video highlights how these transformative projects are fueling a wave of new investments, infrastructure improvements, and opportunities — all contributing to Kokomo’s ongoing economic momentum.
From expanding industries to community-wide enhancements, Kokomo is positioning itself as a forward-looking city ready to embrace innovation and a sustainable future.
Kokomo Featured on Indy NOW
Lifestyle shows gives a fresh look at local favorites
Kokomo was also in the spotlight for Indy NOW, a popular lifestyle show that gave viewers across Central Indiana a taste of what makes our community special. From unique shopping and dining to hands-on experiences and hidden gems, the show highlighted several of the amazing businesses and attractions that make Kokomo a great place to visit, live, and explore.
Whether you’re discovering Kokomo for the first time or seeing it through a new lens, these segments shine a light on the local pride and creativity that define our community.
Watch the Kokomo features from Indy NOW below:
Segments are included below to give you a closer look at the Kokomo experience.