Summer in Howard County means warm evenings, lively music, and unforgettable memories at several entertaining concert series around the county, including the annual Howard County Recreation & Parks Summer Concert Series. Whether you’re a local or visiting for the first time, these concerts are a must-attend event, offering something for everyone. Here's your guide to enjoying the series, with tips on family-friendly activities, the best spots for viewing, and eco-friendly practices.
Howard County Summer Concert Series // Howard County Recreation & Parks
Family-Friendly Fun
Centennial Park South is the heart of the Summer Concert Series. Before the music starts, families can enjoy a range of activities:
- Boating: Explore the beautiful 54-acre man-made lake. Boat rentals are available until 8:00 p.m., with half-price rentals for paddleboats, canoes, and kayaks on Wednesdays.
- Adventure Shack: Satisfy your cravings with ice cream, beverages, popcorn, pretzels, and hot dogs.
- Playground: Let the kids burn off some energy at the playground.
- Picnic Areas: Enjoy a meal at the picnic areas with pavilions.
For more information about the Centennial Park South, visit the Howard County Recreation & Parks website.
Rockburn Branch Park also hosts concerts, with the Kona Ice food truck on site for refreshing treats.
Howard County Summer Concert Series // Howard County Recreation & Parks
Prime Viewing Spots
Concerts are held at the amphitheater in Centennial Park South. To secure a good spot:
- Arrive Early: Set up your chairs and blankets in front of the amphitheater.
- Shade: Find areas with shade trees for comfort before sunset.
- Picnic Basket: Bring a picnic to enjoy during the concert.
For park maps and additional details, visit Howard County Recreation & Parks.
Exciting Performances
The lineup this year includes:
- July 17:
Magical Mystery Girls (All Women Beatles Tribute)Cancelled due to weather. - July 24: Linwood Battle Jr Quartet (Jazz)
- July 31: Bond and Bentley (Rock, Blues, Soul, Funk, Jam Band) - Note: This concert will be at Rockburn Branch Park West.
- August 7: Bach to Rock (Rock School Showcase)
Howard County Summer Concert Series // Howard County Recreation & Parks
Behind the Scenes
The Howard County Recreation & Parks Summer Concert Series features a diverse mix of genres and talents. Their entertainment committee carefully selects bands to ensure a vibrant and exciting lineup. Bands interested in performing can submit applications through our submission process. For details, visit the band submission page.
Eco-Friendly Practices
Howard County Recreation and Parks is dedicated to sustainability. Here are some tips to help keep the parks green:
- Recycling: Use the recycling bins located next to each trash can.
- Reusable Water Bottles: Bring your own water bottles and refill them at the water bottle refilling station near the Adventure Shack.
Howard County Summer Concert Series // Howard County Recreation & Parks
Join Us!
The Summer Concert Series is a highlight of the season, offering music, family fun, and community spirit. Gather your loved ones, pack a picnic, and enjoy the magic of live music under the stars.
Event details are subject to change. For more information about the Summer Concert Series and other events, visit the Howard County Recreation & Parks website.
Find More Summer Performances In Howard County:
Columbia is Maryland's Live Performance Capital and has a wide array of concerts for you to catch this summer! Whether you swing by the Merriweather District to see the free Amped in the Park series in Color Burst Park, or check out the free performances and events during Lakefront Live at the Columbia Lakefront, you're sure to be grooving all summer long. Don't forget there's live entertainment and daily performances at each day of the Howard County Fair.
There's always something to do in Howard County, Maryland!
