Fireworks, beer, and BBQ seem to be a staple of this American holiday, and it's always best celebrated with loved ones!

Where to go:

The Columbia Lakefront will be holding their annual Fourth of July fireworks, so bring your picnics, blankets, and your friends and family from 5-10pm! Don't feel like packing a snack? Don't worry--there will be plenty of food options there!

Downtown Sykesville will be having their independence day celebration on July 1st. The Farmers Market will be open (9am) and will welcome the runners of the Coolest mile on Main Street, at 1 pm. The brand new Let Freedom Ring Parade will start at 2:00pm at Sykesville Middle School and route the length of Historic Main Street. It will include floats, marching units, organized groups, and vehicles traveling on Main Street with the patriotic spirit of the holiday. Awards for floats will be announced at the after-parade party, which will be held directly following the end of the parade at the Farmers Market location (714 Sandosky Rd) with a float viewing area, live music, and food and drink.

On July 7th, Maple Lawn will have their annual street fest from 4-10pm! Bring the whole family for a night of local vendors, exhibitors, Kids' Zone and good ‘ole family fun! Plenty of food vendors to fill your belly! Plus grab a cold beverage from the beer garden while you watch live performances from local bands in the Maple Lawn Entertainment Pavilion.  

Where to Grab Food:

If you're looking to let someone else do the cooking, check out Kloby's Smokehouse! Kloby’s Smokehouse is known for great food and service in a casual dining atmosphere. Kloby’s serves up smoked Pulled Pork (served Carolina-Style), Beef Brisket, Ribs, Chicken and all of your favorite “made from scratch” sides. They pride themselves with taking all of the time needed to BBQ all of their fresh meats in an all natural wood pit to give you the best smoked BBQ flavors you crave.

Town Grill at Foster's Country store is another place to grab carry out BBQ in Howard County! Big country breakfasts, subs, sandwiches and BBQ--such as pit beef, pit turkey, and pit lamb. Famous smokehouse meats and fish. Great ribs and sauces! They even have a variety of sides, including sweet potato fries, Texas baked beans, mac & cheese, and more! 

If you are grilling at home, be sure to visit our local farms to load up on farm fresh meats and veggies!

No matter what you decide to do for this Fourth of July, be sure to do it in Howard County! Have a safe and happy Fourth! 

Photo Credit: Howard County Recreation & Parks