Whiskey, Wheels and Watches Returns for Second Year
TKP Photo | Heidi Pruitt
The second annual Whiskey, Wheels and Watches event is returning to Palmer’s Jewelry from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, June 8.
Jessica Jackson, manager of Palmer’s, said the event not only brings watch enthusiasts to downtown Kokomo but also gives those looking to celebrate Father’s Day early an opportunity to experience family-friendly entertainment and our local downtown charm.
“We don’t plan on bringing in outside vendors,” she said. “Downtown Kokomo has so much to offer, and we want to highlight its charm.”
This event also offers an opportunity to find an ideal watch from some of the leading micro-brands across the country, try adult beverages from local vendors and discover what happens when a watch is durability tested and tossed off of the roof of a six-story building.
“I’m always excited to throw stuff off the roof,” said Jason Samm, a watchmaker at Palmer’s.
“He does enjoy throwing stuff off of roofs,” Jackson added.
In addition to the watch displays from Visitor Watch Co, Fleddermann Von Rieste, Mazz Horology, Kokomo Watch Company and more, the event will have activities from the National Guard, a car show and live music throughout the downtown square.
Whiskey from West Fork Whiskey Co. from Westfield will be available at The Coterie and Cooper’s Pub downtown, while Sun King Kokomo and Whyte Horse Winery will be serving up their delicious drinks outside the Courthouse Square.
“Over the past couple of years, we’ve focused on getting Whiskey, Wheels & Watches off the ground,” said Adam Parrish, Palmer’s head watchmaker. “This event highlights local micro-brands of watches—small groups or individuals with a passion for watchmaking.”
“When people think of special watches, they usually think of mainstream brands,” he said. “With a smaller or micro-brand, contacting them often means speaking directly with the person who made the watch.”
The car show registration fee is $10, with sign-ups available online at Eventbrite or on the morning of the event at the gate. The show starts at 9 a.m., with awards and prizes presented at 3 p.m. New vehicles from local dealerships such as Brad Howell Ford, Button Dodge, and Eriks Chevrolet will also be on display.
Live music will be provided by The Electric Martinis from 10 a.m. to noon and Steve Keller & Friends from 1 to 3 p.m.
Visitors can also enjoy military trucks, football and basketball toss games, corn hole and a mechanical bull (for those aged 18 and over) from the local National Guard and a silent auction featuring items donated by attending companies will benefit a military charity.