YOUR GUIDE TO HOWARD COUNTY FESTIVALS & ANNUAL EVENTS
From packed nights under the stars at Merriweather Post Pavilion to indie art fairs and global street food that rivals any city block, Howard County is where DC edge and Baltimore soul meet in the middle.
It’s not just one kind of crowd, either. It’s neighbors dancing with strangers, kids covered in chalk paint, and bands that pull you in from blocks away. Come for the headliners, stay for the surprise pop-up performances, mural walls, late-night bites, and firefly-lit walks back to the car.
Looking for what’s next? Our FestivALL guide has the season’s can't-miss events, the ones locals talk about long after the lights go down.
Summer
Columbia Festival of the Arts–LakeFest Weekend
Summer kicks off at LakeFest, a three-day celebration on the Downtown Columbia Lakefront that blends live music, juried fine arts and crafts, and interactive fun for all ages. From afternoon strolls past painter’s tents to late-night sets by the water, the whole weekend hums with energy. Kids dance in the grass, artists share their stories, and the lake reflects a little extra sparkle. Whether you’re here for the music, the makers, or just to soak up the sunshine, LakeFest sets the tone for summer in Columbia.
Paint IT! Ellicott City
Paint It! Ellicott City brings color to the cobblestone streets each June, as artists set up their easels throughout town for this annual plein air tradition. Watch painters at work as they capture the charm and character of historic Ellicott City in real time. Then, explore the exhibit of juried artists’ work on display in Gallery I at HoCo Arts and the Open Paint exhibit at Howard County Welcome Center, on display through August. Whether you're an artist, a collector, or just curious, this event lets you see the town through a whole new lens.
Capital Jazz Fest
Each June during Black Music Month, the soulful sounds of Capital Jazz Fest roll into town, drawing fans from across the country. Since 1993, this multi-day celebration at Merriweather Post Pavilion has been a tradition, bringing 30 acts over three days.
Howard County Fair
Step into summer’s sweet spot at the Howard County Fair. Held each August, this hometown tradition blends down-to-earth charm with big-time fun. Get up close with livestock shows and agriculture demos that celebrate the heart of local farming. Then shift gears and soak up the bright lights. Classic carnival rides, funnel cakes, and friendly competition bring out your inner kid. It’s a week of hands-on heritage, unforgettable fun, and small-town magic done right.
Fourth of July Events
Howard County lights up on the Fourth with dazzling fireworks over the Columbia Lakefront. Grab a blanket, find your spot, and watch the night sky burst with color. The festivities don’t stop there—local parades and family-friendly events bring the community together, filling the day with music, fun, and hometown pride. Celebrate Independence Day where the spark of tradition meets the joy of summer.
Whispering Winds Pow-Wow/ American Indian Show & Festival
Experience the rich heritage of Native American culture through dance, song, craft demonstrations, storytelling and authentic cuisine. This annual celebration takes place at the Howard County Fairgrounds over a July weekend.
Main Street Music Festival
Mark your calendars and plan to have a fantastic time enjoying outdoor stages with live music, food trucks, local artisans, kids crafts, beer gardens and the awesome historic eclectic town of Ellicott City with 80+ shops, restaurants and more.
Fall
Festival of India
Discover Indian music, dancing, jewelry, fashion, cuisine and culture at the Festival of India each September at the Howard County Fairgrounds. You can’t miss this incredible festival showcasing the beautiful diversity of our community and the rich heritage of Indian culture. Every moment of the festival is packed with color and flavor creating a visually stunning celebration of all things Indian.
Festival of India
The Festival of India Is the Biggest Desi Entertainment and Shopping Extravaganza in Maryland! It is a 2-day celebration of the richness of Indian culture and heritage, its art, music, dance, entertainment, and cuisine for family-fun entertainment for all ages! Entry and parking are both free.
Hops & Harvest Festival
Grab your friends and flannel for this beloved craft beer festival in Downtown Columbia! Each October, explore live music, games, and outdoor activities at Merriweather Park at Symphony Woods during the Hops & Harvest Festival. Don't forget, attendees enjoy unlimited tastings from a fantastic collection of local Maryland breweries, wineries and distilleries!
Winter
Midnight Madness
The unique shops and historic sites of historic Ellicott City stay open until midnight for this holiday tradition. Held on the first Friday of December, festivities include a tree lighting ceremony, shopping, dining, historical interpretation, musical acts and more!
Historic Savage Mill Holiday Decor Galore & Bollman Bridge Lighting
Step into a winter wonderland at Historic Savage Mill! Witness the majestic Bollman Truss Bridge, the last of its kind, transformed into a dazzling spectacle with thousands of twinkling lights. Inside the Mill, the festive spirit continues with captivating holiday decorations, live performances to fill the air with cheer and charming boutiques offering unique finds. Witness artisan demonstrations showcasing their craft, indulge in delicious dining options and create unforgettable holiday memories.
Bollman Bridge Lighting
Symphony of Lights
Cars, vans, and buses can drive-through this spectacular display of more than 70 larger-than-life light creations, both stationary and animated. Special nights for families with children under 5 and even dogs and their owners! This occurs during the winter holiday season.
Spring
SpringFest
Every April, Ellicott City transforms into a spring paradise. Live music fills the air as you explore outdoor stages. Indulge in culinary delights from a variety of food trucks, tempting your taste buds with diverse flavors. Quench your thirst at the beer and wine gardens, and discover one-of-a-kind treasures crafted by local artisans. While the kids unleash their creativity with engaging crafts, adults can delve into the charm of the historic town, with its eclectic mix of over 70 shops and restaurants offering a delightful shopping and dining experience.
Maryland Sheep & Wool Festival
Calling all sheep enthusiasts! This fun-filled weekend celebration in early May is your chance to discover everything sheep-related. Witness the majesty of over 600 sheep, from fascinating breed displays to thrilling sheepdog demonstrations. Learn about the process of transforming fleece into warm wool through interactive workshops and witness the age-old craft of spinning and weaving. This event offers something for everyone, with delicious food options, live music and engaging activities for children.
Maryland Sheep and Wool Festival
Wine in the Woods
Indulge in a sophisticated spring tradition with Wine in the Woods, a premier event in the region for over 20 years. Typically held in mid-May, this festival allows you to sample delectable offerings from over 30 Maryland wineries, all accompanied by the soothing melodies of live music. Savor delicious food while basking in the beauty of the natural surroundings, making it a perfect spring getaway.
Asian American and Pacific Islander Festival
Join the vibrant celebration of the Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) community at the annual AAPI Festival, which happened in mid-May. Held at The Chrysalis in Merriweather Park at Symphony Woods, this free event is a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of AAPI cultures through music, dance, food and more!
Books in Bloom
This annual literary event brings together some of the country’s best and brightest writers for a daylong festival celebrating the joy of books and reading. Readings, panel discussions, a poetry wall, and pop-up bookstore are featured. This festival is free and open to all ages.
