Escape the city this winter and discover Howard County—a perfect destination for a serene January road trip. From charming downtowns to scenic parks and live performances, there’s something to delight every visitor.
Featured Event Highlights
January 19th - February 1st: Howard County Restaurant & Craft Beverage Weeks
Explore some of Maryland’s best dining during Howard County Restaurant & Craft Beverage Weeks. From trendy tacos to comforting American classics, local chefs bring bold flavors to your table. Don’t forget to pair your meals with craft beverages from local breweries on the HowardOnTap trail!
Rock of Ages at Toby's Dinner Theatre
January 9th - March 19th: Rock of Ages opens at Toby’s Dinner Theatre in Columbia, Maryland
Rock out at award-winning Toby’s Dinner Theatre with the top tracks of the 80’s for the Rock of Ages Musical, showing from January 9th - March 19th, 2025. Get your tickets in advance, because this show is sure to sell quickly!
Events and Activities in Howard County, Maryland
There’s always something exciting going on in Howard County, and January 2026 has loads of events, performances, and activities to keep you entertained. Fight the chill with indoor adventures, perfect for families!
Check out the Howard County event calendar for more ideas and information.
January 1st, 2026, at 3PM: Crafting and Laughing on New Year’s Day at Black Flag Brewing Co.
Join the community for a crafty start to 2026 at Black Flag Brewing Co. Bring your own crafts, connect with other creators, and enjoy $1 off all pours for all crafters.
Photo courtesy of Howard County Conservancy
January 1st, 2026: First Day Hike at Howard County Conservancy
Start the new year with a refreshing walk through nature! Join naturalists on a hike through the trails at the Howard County Conservancy. Register in advance to reserve your spot.
January 2nd - 4th, 2026: Bon Secours Studio Weekend
Kick-off the new year with a “séjour artistique” — a retreat-stay focused on art. Join fellow artists and makers of all types at Bon Secours Retreat and Conference Center for a weekend of creativity and relaxation.
January 8th, 2026 at 7:30PM: Lez Zeppelin: The Song Remains The Same - 50th Anniversary Celebration
Enjoy the songs and sounds of Led Zeppelin performed by the “Lez Zeppelin”, the all-female tribute band, at The Collective Encore for this special 50th Anniversary Celebration. Enjoy dinner at one of the fantastic restaurants in Downtown Columbia to complete your evening!
January 16th, 2026: The Fabulous Hubcaps LIVE at Turf Valley Resort
Join us for a night filled with 50's, 60's, & 70's classics! Enjoy a nostalgic trip down memory lane as The Fabulous Hubcaps perform their extensive repertoire at Turf Valley Resort. Overnight packages are available!
January 21st, 2026: Shall not be Denied or Abridged: The Right to Vote in America
Join the Howard County Historical Society to hear the true story of the history of the right to vote presented by Dr. Richard Bell with opening remarks by Ann Bennett, Executive Director, HCHS. This event is part of celebrating America’s 250th anniversary in Howard County.
Mary's Land Farm in Howard County
January 23rd to 25th, 2026: Winter Wonderland Photography Retreat at Mary's Land Farm
Embrace a retreat at the beautiful Mary’s Land Farm, where a slower pace is combined with intentional photography sessions! Retreat includes hands-on instruction, five delicious meals, and discounted onsite overnight accommodations at a unique setting for beautiful photography, including farm animals and winter landscapes.
January 30th to February 1st, 2026: Innkeeper Experience Weekend at the Inn at Mary's Land Farm
Do you dream of running your own charming Bed and Breakfast? Give it a try for yourself at the Innkeeper Experience Weekend at The Inn at Mary’s Land Farm. The program includes four delicious, hosted meals and offers comfortable, discounted onsite overnight accommodations. This retreat is perfect for anyone interested in high-level hospitality operations, B&B management, or the agritourism business model.
January 30th: Turf Valley Resort's 46th Annual Wedding Showcase
Planning a wedding in 2026? Be sure to visit Turf Valley’s Wedding Showcase where you’ll get a chance to meet with the area’s top vendors and learn about the latest upcoming wedding trends. Tickets include a welcome cocktail & mocktail, unlimited beer, wine, & soda, food stations, hors d'oeuvres, desserts, and much more!
Winter Wellness and Relaxation
While setting your intentions, resolutions, and big dreams for 2026 be sure to take some time to rest and relax at one of Howard County’s Spas. Your new year deserves a new start!
Get a massage at Turf Valley Spa, a pedicure at Elite Nails Spa, or a relaxing scalp treatment at Mend Esthetics.
Yoga Haven and The Yoga Center of Columbia offer intensive classes to unite body and mind, and also relaxing sessions to help you ground and focus. Book an overnight visit at a local hotel to avoid the rush of travel and give yourself space to fully unwind and restore.
Pair your self-pampering with a winter warm up at one of Howard County's fantastic cafes where you can enjoy your favorite seasonal beverage prepared to perfection.
Winter Walks and Outdoor Adventures
This January, start your year with a crisp walk through Howard County’s beautiful parks.
Try a “First Day Hike” through picturesque Patapsco Valley State Park, Howard County Conservancy, or along the tranquil trails of Centennial Park.
Then, lace up your skates for an excursion to Color Burst Ice Rink in the Merriweather District of downtown Columbia, a true winter wonderland.
Book your Winter Getaway Today
This winter, escape the ordinary and experience Howard County’s unique charm and hospitality.
Howard County hotels are conveniently located in Ellicott City, Columbia, Savage, and Elkridge—close to shopping, dining, and entertainment, with free parking and easy access to Baltimore and Washington, D.C.
From modern amenities at DoubleTree by Hilton Columbia to cozy rooms at Residence Inn Fulton, there’s an option to suit every traveler.
