Rhine Hall Offers New Event Space and Venue in Kokomo

By BREE BRAGG

The Kokomo Post Staff

Just north of downtown Kokomo, an extraordinary transformation is taking place as a former historic church embarks on a new chapter as a vibrant concert venue, set to open in the coming months.

Organizers are hard at work on Rhine Hall, located within the walls of the former Galilean Missionary Baptist Church, which was built in the 1930s.

Owner Gary Rhinebarger said he has driven past this building for years and waited for the building to speak to him to tell him what new life it was destined to have.

“As downtown Kokomo continues to revitalize and grow, I saw an opportunity to support our community’s growth by offering a venue to house arts, entertainment and events,” said Rhinebarger Tuesday. “Along the way, we have uncovered the natural beauty of this historic Kokomo building. Years of neglect had made the building tired, and we’re bringing it back to life.”

The soon-to-be event and concert venue exudes timeless charm and history. The cavernous main hall of the venue, located at 507 N. Union St., boasts theater seating, balconies, a front stage that makes an impressive statement and the original nearly 100-year-old stained-glass windows from Kokomo Glass, creating a venue like none other in Kokomo. 

Loosely inspired by the iconic Ryman Auditorium in Nashville, Rhine Hall’s design pays homage to the legendary venue in hopes to bring the same feel to Kokomo. Rhine Hall will serve as a versatile space available for rent, Rhinebarger said, catering to a wide range of events, heavily focusing on entertainment such as concerts and comedy shows to larger-scale events such as weddings.

The grand opening of Rhine Hall is set for Oct. 1, 2023, with a Night of Comedy hosted by the Literacy of Coalition of Howard County and will be open for bookings for more events starting July 1.

With its unique blend of history, charm, and modern amenities, Rhine Hall promises to become a cherished gathering place for Kokomo's vibrant community and locals are already getting excited for what’s to come from Rhine Hall!

Rhine Hall is located at 507 N. Union, Kokomo, IN 46901.