Ready to shake off that Spring fever? Get away for the weekend to Howard County, MD! Whether you're looking for a complete relaxation or full-out adventure, you'll find events and activities to fill your days and send you home feeling rejuvenated.
Friday Evening
Kick off the weekend with a happy hour along the HowardOnTap Craft Brew Trail! Here are a few spots to begin your journey:
🍻Tapville Social: Start your weekend with a shopping adventure at the Mall in Columbia, then unwind at Tapville Social for their $5 Happy Hour Menu! Featuring eight bold, crave-worthy bites: like chimichurri steak frites and honey butter chicken sliders, this menu is perfect for sharing with friends or creating your own tasting experience. Available Monday through Friday from 3PM to 6PM.
🍻Frisco and the Reckless Shepherd: Decompress after work with incredible deals at this joint brewery and restaurant. From Monday through Friday from 3PM to 5PM, enjoy $3 Reckless Drafts, $5 Rail Drinks & Smirnoff Crushes, and $8 snacks – from fried pickles to pretzel bites, sliders, whipped feta, and more!
🍻Phoenix Upper Main: Soar into great drink and snack combos with happy hour from Tuesday through Friday, 4PM - 7PM, with $4.50 Selected Drafts, House Wines, and Premium Rail Drinks! Don't forget to indulge in classic pub fare like soft pretzel sticks, wings, and nachos.
Saturday
Start the day by pampering yourself at one of Howard County's soothing spas or wellness retreats. Try a customized facial at Mend Esthetics Skin Spa, or melt away tension with a Himalayan salt stone massage at the Salt Sanctuary of Maryland.
Once you're well rested, enjoy a veggie filled lunch at Great Sage, a local favorite for its innovative vegan cuisine. Afterwards, plan a stop at Manor Hill Brewing and enjoy a pint while overlooking the picturesque landscape. Clark's Elioak Farm isn't too far away either; Stop by to see the magical pieces saved from The Enchanted Forest Amusement Park and experience farm life up-close with the petting farm!
The Enchanted Forest Amusement Park at Clark's Elioak Farm
Go petal peeping in the afternoon. Depending on the timing of your visit you'll be able to find various types of blooms. In March and early April, enjoy colorful daffodils at Whipps Garden Cemetery or at various locations in downtown Columbia. There are 20,000 daffodils planted throughout town. We'd recommend venturing to Lake Kittamaqundi for an easy way to take in the color. In mid-April, Howard County's 1,800+ Kwanzan Cherry Blossom trees will bloom and add pretty pops of pink everywhere. In May, the Brighton Dam Azalea Garden has its annual moment in the sun.
Cherry Blossoms in Ellicott City
In the evening, venture to any of Howard County's great restaurants. You'll find locally grown Spring produce featured on many menus. Top spots include The Turn House for rotating seasonal dishes, The White Oak Tavern with local ingredients and a dog-friendly patio, and The Elkridge Furnace Inn for regional, seasonal dining.
Sunday
Stop by Little Market Cafe in Old Ellicott City for breakfast before venturing to Patapsco Valley State Park for a nice hike.
Fancy a picnic? There are endless destinations in Howard County that are perfect for kicking back, soaking in the sun, and enjoying a meal while taking in the scenery around you. If you find yourself near Patapsco State Park or Troy Park, order takeout from Rathskeller for authentic German cuisine or Kelsey's Restaurant for Irish pub fare.
When you're ready to call it a night, find your perfect home away from home at a local hotel or B&B. Enjoy a comfortable and charming farmhouse stay at the Inn at Mary’s Land Farm that includes a farm fresh breakfast and ample opportunities to unplug and experience farm life. Or pamper yourself at Turf Valley Resort with their luxurious resort setting and relax at the spa or pool, play a round of golf, and dine in their onsite restaurant.
Upcoming April Events
Ready for more? There are a variety of exciting celebrations and events planned for April that should be marked in your calendars.
🌷SpringFest in Old Ellicott City
April 18th, 2026
SpringFest is an annual event in Historic Ellicott City filled with live performances, tasty food trucks, beer & wine gardens for the adults, arts & crafts for the kids, and a variety of artisan crafts to explore. This year, SpringFest is going green with an eco-friendly-themed celebration on April 18th, 2026 from 12PM to 8PM!
🌍Earth Day Celebration in the Merriweather District
April 18th, 2026
Celebrate Earth Day with the whole family on Saturday, April 18th, 2026 at Color Burst Park. Starting with a complimentary yoga session by Yoga Six, followed by recycling relays and a sustainable maker’s market. Enjoy live music, DIY succulent workshops, face painting and the “Green Kids” craft zone. Arrive early to be one of the first 100 families to get a free tree seedling.
🪅Holi Celebration at Merriweather Park
April 19th, 2026
Holi is one of the most vivid, colorful, and joyous festivals worldwide! Join the celebration of Holi, the Hindu Festival of Colors on April 19th, 2026 at Merriweather Park at Symphony Woods from 12PM - 3PM, and immerse yourself with vibrant colors, beautiful music, and incredible food.
Stay up to date with the latest events by checking out the events calendar!
