Labor Day is coming up, and Howard County is the perfect place to celebrate! From cookouts to festivals, there's plenty of ways to celebrate the hard work and labor we've all put in for over the past year. 

Capital Jazz Fest

Jazzfest 2021

After being forced to cancel last year, The Capital Jazz Fest returns to Merriweather Post Pavilion. The HoCo tradition started in 1993, this multi-day, multi-stage outdoor music festival attracts music lovers nationwide. It’s a place to people-watch, eat, drink, shop, mingle, relax, soak in the rays, make new friends, and of course hear some of the coolest jazz and soul music on the planet. In-between musical sets, enjoy fine art and crafts at the Festival Marketplace, culinary treats at the food court, and meet & greet the artists.

Free Outdoor Movies & Music

couple with laying on blankets with popcorn

Pack a picnic and head out to one of the many free movies and live musical performances happening over Labor Day Weekend. Clarksville Commons will be showing Pixar's Onward and The Wine Bin in Historic Ellicott City will be showing High Note on Saturday Sept. 4. The Columbia Festival of the Arts will be showing Moana on Saturday, with live music Friday and Sunday. 

Festival of India

Festival of India 2021

The Festival of India returns to Howard County this year at the Howard County Fairgrounds. Experience a taste of all things India with Classical & Bollywood Dances, Fashion Show, Tons of DESI Shopping - Clothing, Jewelry, Gifts, Handicrafts, Art Competition, Kids Corner, and more!

Sunflower Festival

Sunflower Stock

The end of Summer and into Fall is peak Sunflower Season in Maryland, no better time to see the Sunflowers of Lisbon in Maple Lawn for their last weekend. In addition to the blooming beauties, there are food trucks, vendors, hayrides, corn pits, and much more for the whole family to enjoy.

Labor Day BBQs and Cookouts

Labor Day BBQ stock

Heading to or hosting a Labor Day cookout? Be sure to pick up a 6 pack from one of our local breweries, such as Red Shedman, Black Flag Brewing Company, Lost Ark Distillery, Jailbreak Brewing Company, Hysteria Brewing, and Manor Hill. You can also pick up some delicious, farm fresh meats and produce from local farmers stands. Clarks Elioak Farm, Breezy Willow, Mary's Land, Sharps at Waterford, and Larriland, are the perfect places to find farm fresh meats and produce, perfect for the grill. Many of Howard County's popular parks are great spots for a BBQ, cookout, or picnic. 

Looking for more ideas? Check out our calendar of events and find the best event for you. No matter how you say goodbye to summer, Howard County is the ideal spot. Have a safe and happy Labor Day!