Kokomo's biggest summer tradition returns this week! The 2025 Haynes Apperson Festival, happening July 3-5 at Foster Park in downtown Kokomo. Every year, this beloved festival brings together thousands of locals and visitors to celebrate the city’s rich automotive history, community pride, and summertime fun. From live music and historic car shows to sports competitions and fireworks, there’s something for everyone at this can't-miss event.

“The time has come—and we couldn't be more excited to celebrate everything that makes Kokomo and Howard County exceptional.” said Haynes Apperson Festival Chairman, Paul Wyman. “From outstanding music to thrilling rides, an impressive parade, and a memorable firework show, this promises to be a truly remarkable weekend.”

Celebrating Kokomo’s Automotive Heritage

The festival is named in honor of two of Kokomo's most legendary innovators: Elwood Haynes and the Apperson Brothers, pioneers whose automotive vision helped shape Kokomo into the “City of Firsts.” The Haynes Apperson Festival not only commemorates their contributions but also shines a light on Kokomo's proud history of innovation, craftsmanship, and community.

One of the weekend’s highlights is the commemorative car show and cruise, which traces historic locations significant to Haynes and the Apperson Brothers. Car enthusiasts can line up for the commemorative route starting at 3:00 p.m. on July 3, followed by a return to Foster Park at 5:15 p.m. — just in time to join the Pioneer Auto Club Cruise-In from 5:30 to 9:00 p.m.

A Grand Parade with a Legendary Grand Marshal

The heart of the festival is the Haynes Apperson Parade, rolling through downtown Kokomo on Saturday, July 5 at 2:00 p.m. Leading this year's parade is a true Kokomo legend, Sensei Eddie Bethea. A mentor, martial artist, and community icon, Sensei Bethea has dedicated decades to inspiring and uplifting Kokomo youth. With over 10,000 students trained, countless hours spent mentoring, and a well-earned place in the Howard County Hall of Fame, Sensei Bethea embodies the spirit of leadership and service that makes Kokomo proud.

Free Concerts, Big Acts, and VIP Perks

The music lineup for 2025 does not disappoint! Festival-goers can enjoy three nights of free live concerts from national and local acts — but for those who want the best seats in the house, VIP tickets are available for just $25 per night. Tickets can be purchased in advance at Palmer’s Jewelry or The Wyman Group Real Estate office.

This year’s entertainment features an impressive mix of rock, classic hits, and local talent. You can find more details about these bands by clicking here.

Concert Lineup:

Thursday, July 3

6:00 PM — Roger’s Ritual Band
8:00 PM — Great White

Friday, July 4

6:30 PM — Hence the Hero
8:00 PM — Night Ranger

Saturday, July 5

6:30 PM — Keyton Romero (Local Artist)
8:00 PM — Mark Farner’s American Band & Henry Lee Summer

Sports, Carnival Rides, and Family Fun

The festival also features a sports festival, slightly scaled back this year but still packed with favorites, including:

Golf
Pickleball
Tennis
YMCA 5K Run
Canoe Trip

You can find the full sports festival schedule by clicking here.

Fireworks Grand Finale

The 2025 Haynes Apperson Festival concludes with the iconic fireworks show lighting up the night sky on Saturday at 10:00 PM. It's the perfect way to cap off a weekend of celebration, community, and Kokomo pride.

Full Festival Schedule

Thursday, July 3

3:00 PM — Lineup for Commemorative Run
5:15 PM — Commemorative Run departs, ending at Foster Park
5:00 PM - 11:00 PM — Carnival Rides
5:30 PM - 9:00 PM — Pioneer Auto Club Cruise-In
6:00 PM — Roger’s Ritual Band
8:00 PM — Great White

Friday, July 4

Sports Festival begins (see sports schedule for specific times)
5:00 PM - 11:00 PM — Carnival Rides
5:00 PM — Haynes Apperson Cruise-In
6:30 PM — Hence the Hero
8:00 PM — Night Ranger

Saturday, July 5

Sports Festival continues
9:00 AM - 3:00 PM — 49th Annual Haynes Apperson Car Show
12:00 PM — Parade Check-In & Lineup
12:00 PM - 5:00 PM — Carnival Rides
2:00 PM — Haynes Apperson Parade on Main Street
6:30 PM — Keyton Romero
8:00 PM — Mark Farner’s American Band & Henry Lee Summer
10:00 PM — Fireworks Show

See You There!

Kokomo, this is your chance to come together, honor our history, and make unforgettable summer memories. Whether you're here for the cars, the music, the sports, or the fireworks, the 2025 Haynes Apperson Festival is ready to deliver.

What are you looking forward to the most this year? Let us know in the comments below!

Get Ready, Kokomo! The 2025 Haynes Apperson Festival is Almost Here