Can you feel the HoCo holiday season coming around the corner? Perhaps you hear the sound of jingle bells in the distance, and the sweet smells of gingerbread and peppermint in the air. That means it’s time for holiday shopping, festive feasting, and of course a traditional visit with Santa Claus for a photo! Be sure to check with the businesses in advance to confirm details and Santa’s arrival time.
Whether you were Naughty or Nice this year, you can spot Santa and get a photo with him as he visits Howard County throughout November and December. Find Santa visits in Columbia, Ellicott City, Savage, and more! Make it a full and festive day with winter events, special holiday offers, and Christmas lights and activities across the county. With so many fun things to do you’ll want to book at one of the beautifully decorated hotels to extend your holiday stay.
Santa Photo Ops and Magical Visits in Howard County
Santa Meet & Greets in Howard County
Photos with Santa at Manor Hill Brewing
Dates: November 29th, December 7th, and December 14th, 2024 (By appointment only)
Times: The farm and tasting room will be open from 12-7pm. Photo times TBD.
Join Manor Hill Brewing for their annual Black Friday Celebration on November 29th and kick off the holiday season on their beautiful farm! Enjoy 13 farm-brewed beers, indoor seating, a covered tent, and plenty of outdoor space to spread out.
Photos with Santa are available on select dates in November and December in the Private Event Barn, right behind the brewery and next to the goats and chickens. Book your photo with Santa in advance, enjoy a beer and pizza, and visit with the friendly farm animals for this unique holiday photo opportunity. Photo times and availability coming soon.
The Santa Experience at The Crazy Mason Milkshake Bar (Ages 2+)
Dates: November 30th, 2024
Times: 11AM - 3PM
The Crazy Mason Milkshake Bar in Historic Ellicott City is thrilled to invite you to a special Santa experience! Enjoy tasty pastries and cookies while Santa reads a Christmas story book to everyone.
Mr. Claus will also be available for visiting and photos, plus a charming craft will be available for children. Get your tickets now and pack your cameras for this magical opportunity!
For an extra charge, enjoy their special Crazy Hot Chocolates, Crazy Cappuccinos, or even Crazy Milkshakes.
Meet Mr. & Mrs. Claus at the Savage Mill Yuletide Festival
Dates: Saturdays and Sundays, from November 30th to December 22nd, 2024
Time: 11AM - 3PM
Santa is making a special visit to Savage Mill at their “New Weave Commons” each weekend of the Yuletide Festival. Explore the incredible holiday decor while getting all your gift-shopping done for the season! Find a variety of local vendors, shops, and artists with gifts for everyone on your list.
Bring the whole family by for festive fun, entertainment, and photo opportunities. You can even bring by your furry family members to meet Santa! And as a special treat, Mrs. Claus will join in the visits every Saturday!
Family Friendly Lunch with Santa at Reckless Shepherd Brewing
Date: November 30th, 2024
Time: 11AM - 3PM (Santa will be present from 12PM until 2PM)
Join in a festive family lunch with Santa Claus at Reckless Shepherd Brewing Co. in Columbia, hosted by Deven’s Deals. Shop local vendors with holiday goods and free professional photos with Santa. Don't miss this merry occasion perfect for the whole family! Attendees must purchase at least one food item while attending this event.
Santa Photo Ops and More at Mary's Land Farm
Date: Friday and Saturday evenings between Thanksgiving and Christmas
Time: 1PM - 7PM
Come experience Mary's Land Farm in all its Christmas glory. The event pavilion will host Christmas photo-ops with Santa (from 4:30PM to 7:00PM), crafts, bonfires, concessions, and games. The barnyard, lit and decorated for Christmas, with friendly animals of all kinds awaiting your visit. Hop on the Polar Express train or take a holiday ride on the wagon up to the animal barns, color maze, play areas and Megaslide. Activities vary by day. Please view their website for more information.
Santa Brunch at Alexandra’s Restaurant at Turf Valley Resort
Date: Sundays in December (December 1st, 8th, 15th, & 22nd)
Times: Seatings from 10AM - 2PM
Celebrate the holiday season with a festive brunch at Alexandra's Restaurant! Savor a delightful buffet that's perfect for everyone, and don’t miss your chance to visit Santa in the Fairway Lounge. $52 for Adults, $32 for Children (Ages 4-11), Ages 3 & Under Free. Prices do not include tax and gratuity.
Brunch with Santa at Vacation and Chill and The Food Market Columbia
Date: Saturday, December 14th, 2024
Time: 12PM - 3PM
It's the perfect season for visiting with Santa! Stop by The Food Market Columbia for a delicious holiday brunch, cookie decorating, and photo opportunities. Kids under 10 eat FREE!
Dinner with Santa at The White Oak Tavern
Dates: December 17th, 18th, & 19th 2024
Times: 5PM - 8PM
Experience a magical holiday dinner with Santa and Mrs. Claus and enjoy the new Winter menu at The White Oak Tavern this December. Get your Christmas photo while enjoying a delicious holiday meal with the ones who matter most.
Must-See Holiday Events in Howard County
While you're visiting with Santa, plan ahead to keep the memory making going with some of these fantastic holiday and winter events in Howard County. These seasonal events are sure to leave you smiling!
Ice Rink at Color Burst Park
Color Burst Park Ice Rink Opens
Date: November 22nd, 2024 at 5:30PM
The popular Color Burst Park Ice Rink is returning for another holiday season! See the grand opening and tree-lightning ceremony on November 22nd, and stop by during the November and December for ice-skating fun.
Holiday Maker Mart with the Howard County Arts Council
Dates: November 23rd, - December 5th 2024
After your photoshoot with Santa Claus, visit this unique holiday market where you can find incredible art pieces and gift ideas made my local artists.
Merriweather Symphony of Lights
Merriweather Symphony of Lights
Dates: November 29th, 2024 - January 5th, 2025
Experience a spectacular display of more than 70 larger-than-life light creations lighting up the Merriweather Post Pavilion with magical bright sights. Drive through, or walk through on select nights! Special nights are available for families with children under 5 and even dogs and their owners!
Christmas Suite at The Turf Valley Resort
Extend Your Stay with a Holiday Hotel
After all your excitement meeting Santa Claus and exploring the holiday festivities in Howard County, you'll want to relax and unwind. Book a stay at one of the fantastic holiday hotel rooms available to keep the holiday magic alive even while you're sleeping.
Check out the variety of themed Christmas Suites available at Turf Valley Resort, where you can find the perfect room for whatever merry mood you feel. Another festive option is the gorgeously decorated DoubleTree by Hilton Columbia, where Christmas trees and wreaths fill the hotel lobby space with warmth and holiday spirit.
These decorated hotels are merry, bright, and just right for your holiday getaway in Howard County. You'll love every moment of this holiday adventure.
