Welcome to Howard County, Maryland, where autumn comes alive during the Wanderland Craft Beverage Festival on Saturday, October 4th, 2025, from 11 AM to 4 PM.
This one-of-a-kind craft beverage experience organized by The Brewers Association of Maryland, in partnership with the Hops & Harvest Festival, will be held at Merriweather Park at Symphony Woods in Downtown Columbia, Maryland.
This isn’t your typical tasting festival—Wanderland is a sensory journey through Maryland’s rich craft beverage landscape—blending flavor, music, nature, and art into an immersive woodland adventure.
Wanderland Craft Beverage Festival: A Maryland Celebration
The breathtaking spectrum of reds, oranges, and yellows that fill Howard County in the fall season is the perfect backdrop for a day filled with outdoor activities, family outings, and delicious craft beverage tastings.
The Wanderland Festival aims to be a family-friendly celebration of exploration. (Kids 8 and under are free!) Experience all your senses engaging at the festival while you enjoy crisp fall air, live music, local artisans, and, most importantly, craft beverages.
Craft Beverages Take Center Stage
Maryland is no stranger to the craft beverage scene, and Howard County is at the heart of this thriving industry. At the Wanderland Festival, you can sample a wide array of curated tastings from dozens of Maryland craft producers.
Sample beer, wine, spirits, cider, and mead - all Maryland-made! Local breweries, wineries, and distilleries will set up shop for the day, providing a unique opportunity to chat with the vendors and discover new favorites. Five regional tasting zones will be set up featuring Maryland beer, wine, & spirits. Once you check in at the gate you'll receive your Wanderland tasting cup, and can then enjoy unlimited samples throughout the festival! Remember to pace yourself and stay hydrated as you sample your way through Maryland's delicious regions.
Expect to find non-alcoholic options and plenty of kid-friendly drinks too.
Live Music & Entertainment
Live music adds to the festive atmosphere at the Wanderland Festival. Talented musicians take the stage, creating a soundtrack that perfectly complements the fall ambiance. Whether you're tapping your feet to folk tunes or grooving to some rock and blues, the musical performances will keep you entertained throughout the event.
Local Delights
Delicious Local Food Offerings
The Wanderland Festival is a perfect event for taste enthusiasts of all kinds, including local foodies! A curated lineup of Maryland-based food vendors will be serving regional snacks and woodland-friendly bites to keep you snacking and satiated!
For delicious meals after the event, be sure to check out the incredible restaurants in the Merriweather District of Columbia, including Medium Rare, Clove & Cardamom, Blackwall Barn & Lodge, and Smashing Grapes! Kick back with retro arcade games and fun drinks at GameOn bar+arcade for a perfect close to your day.
Purchase your tickets here!
At its heart, the Wanderland Craft Beverage Festival embodies adventure and exploration. By showcasing a diverse collection of Maryland breweries, cideries, wineries, and distilleries, the event not only highlights our thriving craft beverage industry, but also encourages attendees to support local businesses.
With live music, engaging activities, and a family-friendly atmosphere, the festival creates memories that linger long after the last sip is taken. Are you ready to wander?
Historic Ellicott City Main Street
Exploring the County
While you're in Howard County for the Wanderland Craft Beverage Festival take some time to explore the surrounding area. The county is home to beautiful parks, historic sites, and charming towns that are perfect for day trips. Whether you're hiking in Patapsco Valley State Park, learning about history along Ellicott City's Main Street, or exploring the charming shops in Historic Savage Mill, Howard County offers a wide range of attractions for every interest.
Howard County, Maryland is a hidden gem during the fall season, and Wanderland is a top highlight you won't want to miss! With its craft beer culture, delicious local bites, and family-friendly activities, this event offers something for everyone. So, mark your calendars, pack your spirit of adventure, and get ready to wander this fall in Howard County.
Coming in from out of town? Make your day trip into a weekend getaway! There are several great hotel options close to the festival location.
