Get ready, Region! The 219 area code is gearing up to once again celebrate our official holiday, 219 Day. “Region Rats” from across Northwest Indiana are invited to join this free, 21-and-over party from 6-11 p.m., Feb. 16 at the Hammond Civic Center, 5825 Sohl Ave., Hammond.
Mayor Thomas McDermott, Jr. and the 219 Day Committee welcome the public to this night of entertainment, community networking, and downright wacky fun.
Guests will be welcomed by red carpet to the Oscar-themed celebration. Once inside, community members can enjoy free entertainment by live bands. Davy Knowles will take the stage, brandishing his eclectic take on blues and rock music. Guests will take a step back in time as Fool House brings the ultimate ‘90s dance party to the Region. Featuring nonstop sing-alongs, choregraphed dance moves, and songs from the best boy bands, pop stars, hip hop artists, and punk bands of the ‘90s, Fool House encourages attendees to dance away the stress of the week and sing along to some of their favorite tunes.
No Oscar-themed night would be complete without a few awards. Throughout the evening, hilarious awards will be presented.
The fun doesn’t stop there. All guests will have a chance to leave the evening with a free car. This mystery car raffle is completely free to enter, and a winner will be drawn at random. Fun and games await at every turn, including a human foosball game, skee-ball, and a money-blowing machine.
The “Region Rat” pinata is expected to be a hit. The rat pinata is dressed for the occasion, sporting his best black-tie outfit and holding his Oscar-inspired trophy. See if you can bust the pinata before heading over to get your temporary tattoo commemorating the event, sponsored by The Tattoo Lady of Hammond.
Capture the evening’s memories in the selfie booth before picking up your official 219 Day shirt. Community members can choose from five designs, including an AC/DC-inspired “Back in Rat” shirt. Those interested may also purchase shirts in advance to be shipped home.
Enjoy tasty treats from beloved local food vendors or sample beers from local breweries. Drink vendors include 18th Street Brewery, Byway Brewing, 3 Floyds Brewing Company, Off Square Brewing, Misbeehavin’ Meads, and many more craft and domestic brews and wines.
The event would not be possible without sponsors. The Smoke Stack Sponsors, the highest level of sponsorship for 219 Day, include Purdue University Northwest and The Times. Other sponsors include American Structurepoint, a “Hard Hat Sponsor,” and more than a dozen “Lunch Box Sponsors,” including the Hammond Parks Foundation, Inc., and Indiana Beverage.
For those traveling to celebrate 219 Day, free shuttle service is available to and from the Hammond Station of the South Shore Line. Visit www.mysouthshoreline.com for train schedules. Parking is available in the lot on the west side of the Hammond Civic Center.
Mark your calendars! Join other “Region Rats” on February 16 to celebrate the 219 area code. To learn more about 219 Day, please visit http://219day.com/.
