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. Arts and 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 the Arts Blossom
Howard County's parks are especially inviting in the spring. 2025 marks the 20th anniversary of Blossoms of Hope, which has planted over 3,100 flowering cherry blossom trees across the county. The original Founders Grove graces the entrance of Centennial Park next to Route 108.
Blossoms of Hope - Photo credit: 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.
During your cherry blossom retreat, you won’t want to miss joining the celebration of Blossoms of Hope’s 20th anniversary on March 13th from 6 to 9 pm at the Horowitz Visual and Performing Arts Center at Howard Community College. The evening promises to be a vibrant mix of beautiful art, delicious food, a welcoming community, and spring blooms.
Blossoms of Hope Celebration Reception
Throughout March, the Blossoms of Hope Countywide Art Show will feature over 500 pieces of artwork, which will display at 14 locations throughout the county, including: Blossoms of Hope (6021 University Blvd, Ste 140, in Ellicott City), DoodleHATCH, The Artists’ Gallery, historic Savage Mill, Howard County Arts Council, The Collective Offshore and Encore, and more.
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 26th from 12 pm to 6 pm. 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
You may also see a cherry blossom in bloom towards the entrance of Clark’s Elioak Farm, where you can bring meet new arrivals of baby goats around early April, and enjoy seasonal egg hunts Saturday April 12 through Sunday April 20, 2025. The petting farm and rides will also be open on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025.
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 10th, offering the chance to engage with renowned speakers and discover exciting new reads.
Books in Bloom
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.
