Ho Ho HoCo Fun! Holiday Events Around Howard County, MD: 2025 Guide
The holiday cheer is upon us! I’ve gathered the ultimate list of 2025 holiday events in Howard County, MD. Plus nearby options worth the drive. I’ll continue updating as more events are announced!
Celebrate the Holidays in Howard County, MD
Oakland Mills High School Craft Fair
Saturday, November 1, 10 AM – 3 PM
More than 100 vendors set up shop in this long-standing community event — excellent for local treasures and festive finds.
Merriweather District – Tree Lighting & Ice Rink Opening
Friday, November 21, 5:30 PM – 8:30 PM
Celebrate the beginning of the holidays at Merriweather District’s Tree Lighting and Ice Rink Opening!
Merriweather Symphony of Lights
Saturday, November 29 - Sunday, January 4, 2026
Columbia’s iconic drive-through light spectacle, with themed walk-through nights.
Merriweather District – Holiday Market
Friday, December 5, 5:30 PM – 8:30 PM | Saturday, December 6, 11 AM - 6 PM | Sunday, December 7, 12 PM – 4 PM
Browse from a collection of local vendors offering handmade gifts, enjoy seasonal drinks from Merriweather District restaurants, take part in giveaways, and relax by the fire pits.
Midnight Madness – Old Ellicott City
Friday, December 5, 5:30 PM – 12 AM
A beloved HoCo tradition: festive shopping along Main Street, live music, tree lighting, and Santa’s grand arrival. I always feel that small-town holiday magic here!
Holiday Mart – Gary J. Arthur Community Center, Cooksville
Saturday, December 6, 10 AM – 6 PM
$4.00 Per Person
Over 120 local crafters and makers gathered in one place — a wonderful way to knock out your gift list while supporting small businesses.
The Holiday Soiree – The Pearl Spa
Saturday, December 6, 9 AM – 1 PM
Amazing savings, complimentary treats, and so much more.
Handmade Holiday & Gift Market – Turf Valley Resort
Sunday, December 7, 11 AM – 2 PM
Shop for handcrafted gifts, purchase pastries and coffee, and enjoy the Kid's Corner arts & crafts.
Clarksville Commons Holiday Market
Saturday, December 13, 9 AM – 1 PM
A festive outdoor market featuring local vendors, tasty bites, and plenty of holiday cheer. Lovely for families wanting a relaxed outing.
Frozen Fest – Robinson Nature Center
Saturday, December 13 and Sunday, December 14, 9 AM – 2:30 PM
A winter-themed celebration with a puppet show, frozen science experiments, planetarium shows, marshmallows by the fire, and Santa photo ops (10 AM – 12 PM)
$7 members, $10 nonmembers, free for children under 2
Christmas Eve Dining – Alexandra’s at Turf Valley Resort
Wednesday, December 24: Breakfast is 7 AM – 11 AM, Lunch is 11 AM – 4 PM, and Dinner is 4 PM - 8 PM.
Enjoy a festive breakfast, lunch, or dinner with your loved ones.
Jazzy Christmas Eve – The White Oak Tavern
Wednesday, December 24, 11 AM – 2 PM or 4 PM – 7 PM
Christmas Eve brunch or dinner while enjoying live jazz music.
Bonus Holiday Fun Near Howard County, MD
THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride – B&O Railroad Museum (Baltimore)
November 28-29 & December 6-7, 13-14, 19-23
Not in Howard County, but absolutely a favorite destination — especially for little train fans. Always a magical outing.
Jeff’s Christmas Light Show Spectacular 2025
Running November 28th – December 27th
A 100% FREE light display for a fun, budget friendly holiday adventure.
Wrap Up the Season with Local Cheer
Howard County shines brightest during the holidays… From twinkling lights and festive markets to cozy community traditions. Whether you’re strolling Main Street during Midnight Madness, skating at Merriweather, or sipping cocoa by the fire at Clarksville Commons, there’s no shortage of ways to make memories close to home. Keep checking back as more 2025 events are announced, and may your holiday season be merry, bright, and filled with HoCo magic.
