Kokomo is taking the national spotlight as it is featured in an episode of John McGivern’s Main Streets, a television series that highlights unique communities across the Midwest. The episode first aired on March 27 on PBS Wisconsin and select PBS stations across the Midwest.
While it is not yet viewable in the Kokomo PBS market, it can be viewed online now at greaterkokomo.com/MainStreets. The Greater Kokomo Downtown Association will host a viewing party at 5:30 p.m. on Tuesday, April 8, at SUTE Korean BBQ House, 521 N. Buckeye St. There is no cost to attend.
John McGivern’s Main Streets is the No. 1-rated, locally produced show on PBS Wisconsin, showcasing the charm and character of destinations across the region. The series explores the heart and soul of Midwestern towns, uncovering their unique history, local businesses, and unexpected attractions. In Kokomo, the episode highlights how natural gas discoveries fueled early innovation, explores the legacy of Elwood Haynes, and takes viewers through the city’s distinctive art, food, and manufacturing scenes.
The Greater Kokomo Visitors Bureau played a pivotal role in bringing the show to Kokomo, providing information on the community, connecting producers with community representatives, hosting a site visit for the film crew in March 2024, and coordinating efforts to ensure a successful filming experience.
From August 12-15, 2024, the show’s hosts and production crew explored and captured the story of Kokomo, visiting standout local businesses and attractions such as Kokomo Opalescent Glass, Black Wax Café, and Haynes International, among others. The episode shines a spotlight on the city’s creative energy, entrepreneurial spirit, and deep-rooted history, giving viewers across the country a reason to visit and experience Kokomo firsthand.
“This is an exciting opportunity to share Kokomo’s story with a national audience,” said Sherry Matlock, manager of the Greater Kokomo Visitors Bureau. “Bringing John McGivern’s Main Streets here was a collaborative effort, and we are grateful to the many businesses, organizations, and residents who helped showcase our community in the best possible way.”
The filming process was made possible through the support of numerous community partners who worked together to ensure the city looked its best. This national exposure not only highlights what makes Kokomo special but also has the potential to attract new visitors and strengthen the local economy. The episode features multiple Kokomo locations, including many in downtown Kokomo.
For more information about the Greater Kokomo Visitors Bureau and its efforts to promote the community, visit VisitKokomo.org.