As winter’s snowy embrace fades, Howard County awakens with endless possibilities. Let Visit Howard County guide you through your springtime adventure. Start your retreat with a peaceful trail walk, surrounded by the breathtaking blooms of cherry blossoms and nearby azaleas. Exciting events unfold against the backdrop of stunning flora and fauna, revealing the hidden charm that makes Howard County the perfect place for a spring getaway.
Where Nature and Festivals Blossom
Howard County's parks are especially inviting in the spring. The popular and beloved cherry blossoms are one of the many blooming beauties you can admire; Blossoms of Hope have planted over 3,100 flowering cherry blossom trees across the county. You can find the original Founders Grove at the entrance of Centennial Park next to Route 108.
Blossoms of Hope (Photo by: Theresa Meeker Pickett)
The Legacy Grove is located at Lake Kittamaqundi. This grove is home to three trees that were grown from the saplings of the Japanese cherry trees, which surround the Tidal Basin in Washington, D.C.
Howard County’s Kwanzan cherry blossoms typically bloom around two weeks later than the Yoshino cherry blossoms at the Tidal Basin in Washington D.C., making them a perfect complement to your cherry blossom experience.
Centennial Park Cherry Blossoms in Howard County
Next to the Howard County Welcome Center, a lovely cherry blossom tree may be in bloom during Howard County’s SpringFest in Historic Ellicott City. This music festival delivers an unforgettable experience on April 18th from 12PM to 8PM. Wander through the charming streets lined with boutiques, discover one-of-a-kind antiques, and sample local brews as you take in the beauty of this historic town.
SpringFest Beer Garden (Photo by: Theresa Meeker Pickett)
You may also see a cherry blossom in bloom towards the entrance of Clark’s Elioak Farm, where you can meet new arrivals of baby goats around early April, and enjoy seasonal egg hunts Saturday March 28th through Sunday April 5th, 2026. The petting farm and rides will also be open on Easter Monday, April 6, 2026.
Nearby, the Brighton Dam Azalea Garden is a must-see, with its stunning bursts of color as they bloom in late April and early May. Afterward, unwind nearby with a craft beer at Jailbreak Foodworks & Brewing Company.
Brighton Dam Azalea Garden
In Howard County, flowers aren’t the only things in bloom—your mind can grow too. For literary enthusiasts, Books in Bloom returns to downtown Columbia in the Merriweather District on May 9th, 2026, offering the chance to engage with renowned speakers and discover exciting new reads.
Books in Bloom in Color Burst Park
Enjoy the outdoors, live music, and samples of delicious wines at the annual Wine in the Woods Festival being held on May 16th & 17th, 2026. Howard County invites guests to explore a variety of local wines and artisan vendors all in the natural beauty of Merriweather Park at Symphony Woods in the heart of the Merriweather District.
Relax and breathe easy in the fresh spring air as you sip from your refillable cup, take in the lush surroundings, and stroll past iconic music sculptures near Merriweather Post Pavilion.
Wine in the Woods in Merriweather Park at Symphony Woods
Your Spring Retreat Awaits in Howard County
Plan a spring getaway by reserving a stay at a charming bed and breakfast or a stylish modern hotel. Turf Valley Resort offers an indoor pool, golfing, pickleball, and plenty of space to unwind. For a chic stay in the heart of the action, check into the Merriweather Lakehouse Hotel near the Merriweather District. If you’re seeking a countryside retreat, the quaint Mary’s Land Farm Inn provides a tranquil farm stay surrounded by nature.
