2025 Pride Events in Howard County, MD: Celebrate Love & Inclusion
Pride is HERE! If you've been around Columbia for a while, you know that Howard County shows up when it comes to celebrating love, inclusion, and our beautiful LGBTQIA+ community. And as a mom raising kids to be kind, open-hearted humans, these celebrations matter to me, and maybe to you too.
Here at The Columbia Mom, we’re all about celebrating diversity, embracing inclusion, and showing up for love in all its forms—this month and always.
Whether you're part of the LGBTQIA+ family or showing up as a proud ally, I've rounded up the best of this year’s Pride events right here in our backyard. Bring the kids, call your besties, and let’s show up for joy, visibility, and community.
Here’s what’s on deck for Pride 2025 in Howard County:
OEC Pride Festival
Address: Circuit Courthouse Parking Lot + Inn at Mt. Ida
This is THE pride event of the summer. On Sunday June 8, at 12:00 PM OEC is back for its fifth annual pride festival. This is a day filled with pride, celebration and community. There will be Drag, music, food, vendors, exhibitors, games, and more!
For the kiddos, there will be a fun and adventurous scavenger hunt through Historic Ellicott City! There really is something for everyone at this event so don’t miss out!
Pride Drag Brunch
Address: Black Flag Brewing Company 9315 Snowden River Parkway Columbia, MD 21046
On June 15, 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM, is an event you won’t want to miss. let’s talk about this one, because it's SO fun and a little bit fabulous. The Pride Drag Brunch at Black Flag Brewing is the perfect way to celebrate with friends (maybe not one for the kiddos, but 100% worth booking a sitter). Expect incredible performances, good vibes, mimosas, and a very enthusiastic crowd. Brunch meets glitter? Yes, please.
Pride in July: Columbia Association
Address: Downtown Columbia Lakefront 10275 Wincopin Cir, Columbia, MD 21044
Pride In July is a way to keep on celebrating pride. It occurs on July 26, from 7:00 PM - 9:30 PM.
Just when you think Pride season is slowing down, Columbia Association keeps the rainbow energy alive with Pride in July. This event is all about connecting community. The event starts off with a neon color parade around Lake Kittamaqundi. It’s low-key, inclusive, and one of my favorite ways to keep the kids engaged while reinforcing what Pride really means. There is dancing, color and music, how fun while also learning and celebrating our pride community!
HCPSS Pride Prom
Address: 8045 Harriet Tubman Ln, Columbia, MD 21044
This ones for the teens! If you’ve got a highschooler that attends an HCPSS school, and wants to celebrate in a safe, affirming space, then HCPSS’s Pride Prom is the place to be! This is event is on Saturday June 7 from 8:00 PM - 11:00 PM, and the theme… moonlit mystery! Bring your masks because this prom is a renaissance masquerade! As a mom, this event is so thoughtful and make my mama heart happy.
BONUS: Pride Friendly Businesses
One of my favorite parts of Pride season? Seeing local businesses step up… not just in June, but all year long. Whether it’s flying a rainbow flag in their window, donating to LGBTQIA+ orgs, or creating inclusive spaces where everyone feels welcome, these spots walk the talk. Here's a list of businesses and organizations right here in Howard County that are proud allies… or part of the LGBTQIA+ family themselves.
Kupcakes & Co. (Elkridge)
This sweet shop is family-owned, inclusive, and often supports local causes, including LGBTQIA+ nonprofits. Their Pride cupcakes are adorable, and their team is the kindest.
Roggenart European Bakery + Café (Columbia & Ellicott City)
Their Columbia location has hosted inclusive community events, and the atmosphere is warm and welcoming for all kinds of families (plus, their almond croissants are life-changing).
Black Flag Brewing Company (Columbia)
Aside from their fantastic beer and lively patio vibes, they host the Pride Drag Brunch and frequently partner with LGBTQ+ performers and causes. Supportive, chill, and fun.
EC Pops (Ellicott City)
If you’re headed to Old Ellicott City for Pride—or just on a sunny day stroll… EC Pops is a must-stop. This vibrant, joyful shop is packed with retro candies, popcorn in every flavor imaginable, and rainbow-colored everything. They’re big supporters of Pride events and always make everyone feel welcome. My kids love it, and honestly? So do I.
The Wine Bin (Ellicott City)
Right in the heart of historic EC, The Wine Bin isn’t just a wine shop… it’s a gathering place. They’re proudly inclusive, often flying the Pride flag and supporting LGBTQIA+ events like the Old Ellicott City Pride Festival. Plus, they host some of the most charming outdoor movie nights and tastings in town. (Yes, you can bring a picnic blanket and your favorite neighbors).
Howard County Library System
The library system leads with equity, constantly curating inclusive collections and hosting Pride-focused programming for all ages.
I’ll be at many of these events and businesses this summer supporting the LGBTQIA+ community! Most likely with a coffee in one hand, kids and hubby by my side and glitter on my shirt. If you see me, come say hi. Pride isn’t just a month… it’s a movement, a mindset, and a beautiful reminder that our community is at its best when we show up for one another.
