4th of July Events Around Howard County, MD: 2025 Guide
Hey there! Raise your hand if you’ve ever told yourself, “This year, I’m really going to plan ahead for the 4th!” And yet… here we are, halfway through June, and I’m just now pulling out the calendar and asking myself: Where are the fireworks? Who has the good food trucks? Can I wear flip-flops all day or will there be hiking involved?
I’ve been digging through community sites, asking around, and bookmarking like crazy, so if you’re looking for where to go and what to do, I’ve rounded up all the good stuff. Whether you want to make a whole day of it or just catch the fireworks after bedtime (or instead of bedtime), there’s something here for every kind of family.
Let’s dive in!
Columbia Lakefront Fireworks
Address: Columbia Lakefront, 10275 Wincopin Cir, Columbia , MD 21044
Friday July 4 | Fireworks around 9:15 PM
The Lakefront fireworks is a Howard County Classic. Live music, food trucks, and that picture perfect moment when the fireworks reflect over the lake. It gets me every time. This event starts at 5:00 PM and ends at 10:00 PM, with the fireworks most likely going off around 9:20 PM. Bring a blanket, some lawn games for the kids and your patience for parking! ( I usually park and walk in, worth it!)
BONUS: Its FREE for all ages!
July 4th Weekend at Turf Valley Resort
Address: 2700 Turf Valley Road, Ellicott City Maryland 21042
Turf Valley Resort is hosting their very own 4th of July weekend celebration! This runs through Friday July 4 to Sunday July 6, so if you want to make a whole weekend out of the 4th this is your place to go! There’s going to be live music and a DJ, fun games and activities, and poolside food and fun!
For us parents, they will be serving cocktails and food all day, and then for the kiddos there are plenty of games and activities that will keep them occupied! The only downside is that there will be no fireworks displayed, but if your kids are scared of loud noises then this perfect! Also, there will be so many activities going on that you won’t even be focused on fireworks! Here is a the weekend events listed out for you !
July 4th: DJ Korey with a K 12:00 PM-4:00 PM, face painting 12:00 PM- 3:00 PM, and an inflatable water slide 10:00- 4:00 PM
July 5th: Steel Pan Jam 12:00 PM-4:00 PM, face painting 12:00 PM- 3:00 PM, choose your own craft, 12:00 PM- 3:00 PM
July 6th: Jack Selway Music 12:00 PM-4:00 PM, face painting 12:00 PM- 3:00 PM, choose your own craft, 12:00 PM- 3:00 PM
4th of July Concert with the US Navy Concert Band
Address: Merriweather Park at Symphony Woods, 10431 Little Patuxent Pkwy, Columbia, MD 21044
Friday July 4 | 1:00 PM – 2:30 PM
If you’re looking to kick off your 4th with something a little more meaningful (and still super fun), the US Navy Concert band is a must. The U.S. Navy Concert Band will be performing at the Chrysalis in Symphony Woods, and it’s totally free. They’ll be playing everything from classic patriotic tunes to more modern pieces, and yes, it’s the kind of music that makes your heart swell a little.
Bring a picnic blanket or rent a chair there for $5 (no bringing your own chairs, FYI). It’s relaxed, family-friendly, and a really lovely way to slow down and soak in the spirit of the holiday before the evening fireworks craziness begins.
Pro tip: There’s a bit of a walk from parking, so plan accordingly, and no pets allowed, unless they’re service animals.
Sparkle and Swim at The Pearl
Address: 10275 Little Patuxent Pkwy Suite 102, Columbia, MD 21044, USA
Friday, July 4 | 5:00 PM
Okay, let’s talk about something just for us. If you're craving a little peace and pampering before the fireworks fly, Sparkle & Swim at THE Pearl might be exactly what your mama soul needs.
This grown-ups-only evening is pure relaxation with a festive twist, think: healing waters, a dreamy hot tub, cold plunge (if you're feeling brave), aromatherapy steam room, and yes, that vitamin rainforest shower that makes you feel like you’ve stepped into a spa commercial. There’s a picnic-style lunch prepared just for you, and when it’s time for fireworks, you’ll have reserved seating to watch the Lakefront show without wrestling for lawn space.
You also get a sparkly celebration kit (because obviously), and if you want to go full luxe, you can add on a robe and slippers. Just a heads up, this one’s 18+ and swimsuits are required. It’s a little slice of serenity right in the middle of all the red, white, and boom.
If you’re looking for a moment to breathe, unwind, and maybe toast to freedom with something bubbly, this is it.
Catonsville 4th of July Celebration
Friday, July 4 | All Day
Looking for a full-day celebration? Catonsville has you covered with its 78th annual 4th of July festivities. Here's the lineup:
8:00 AM – 13th Annual Bike Ride to Fort McHenry
Start your day with a guided bike ride to Fort McHenry. It's a community favorite, and all levels are welcome. Don't forget to decorate your bike for added fun!
9:30 AM – Children's Games and Races
Head to Catonsville High School for a variety of games and races, including a decorated bike contest, lollipop scramble, and water balloon toss. Prizes await the winners!
11:00 AM – American Music Concert at Christian Temple
Enjoy a free concert featuring patriotic tunes. It's a lovely way to take a break and soak in the music.
3:00 PM – 78th Annual Grand Parade
Find your spot along Frederick Road to watch the parade, featuring marching bands, including the Ravens Marching Band. It's a rain-or-shine event, so come prepared!
6:30 PM – Fireworks Family Fun Fest
Gather at Catonsville High School for live music by Mallow Hill, local food vendors, and family-friendly activities.
9:15 PM- MAMMOTH FIREWORKS DISPLAY*
Catonsville High School
4th of July Mom Tips
Here’s what I’ve learned from years of doing the 4th like a pro:
Hydration, hydration, hydration. I pack a cooler with water bottles and freeze a few the night before to double as ice packs.
Glow sticks instead of sparklers. Safer, cheaper, and way more fun for little ones.
Noise-canceling headphones for toddlers or sensory-sensitive kids during fireworks. Trust me… it changes the game.
Stash a few mini flags or red-white-and-blue temporary tattoos in your bag for bonus festive fun.
So wherever you celebrate, by the lake, in the pool, under the stars, or dancing at a concert, I hope your day is full of joy, laughter, and those little moments you’ll always remember. See you out there, HoCo!
