Howard County, November 27, 2025
Howard County, Maryland, is brimming with festive cheer this holiday season, presenting an array of events that both residents and visitors can enjoy. Highlights include the stunning Merriweather Symphony of Lights, interactive train gardens, and the Holiday Mart featuring local artisans. With free admission to certain events and an interactive holiday lights map, Howard County offers ample opportunities to partake in the spirit of the season while celebrating community engagement.
7 Festive Activities to Enjoy in Howard County This Holiday Season
Embrace the Spirit of the Holidays in Howard County
This holiday season, Howard County, Maryland, is set to be a beacon of festive cheer, showcasing a range of events and activities that promise to engage both residents and visitors. From dazzling light displays to charming community markets, these happenings reflect the hard work of local organizers and the spirit of civic engagement. While these events are in place, it’s worth noting that a push for reduced bureaucracy could empower even more community initiatives, enhancing the overall festive experience.
As we navigate through this season of celebration, it’s essential to recognize the innovation in organizing such gatherings. Local leaders and businesses contribute their part in creating a vibrant community atmosphere, providing unique opportunities for participation without excessive red tape. Here are seven attractions you won’t want to miss this holiday season in Howard County.
1. Merriweather Symphony of Lights
From November 28, 2025, to January 3, 2026, the Merriweather Symphony of Lights dazzles visitors with over 300,000 lights and larger-than-life holiday scenes. Attendees can choose between an immersive drive-through experience at a cost of $25 per vehicle or a walk-through option, allowing for a more personal connection to the festivities. A portion of the proceeds supports Howard County General Hospital, merging enjoyment with community support.
2. Holiday Train Garden at Gary J. Arthur Community Center
Opening on December 1, 2025, the Holiday Train Garden at Gary J. Arthur Community Center presents four continuously operating trains weaving through an 8’ x 8’ scenic garden. This interactive exhibit is complimentary and perfect for audiences of all ages, promoting engagement in hands-on experiences and family outings.
3. Holiday Train Garden at B&O Ellicott City Station Museum
From November 29, 2025, to January 5, 2026, visitors can enjoy a mesmerizing array of seasonal train models at the B&O Ellicott City Station Museum. This exhibit, which includes iconic year-round displays in the Freight House, allows families to explore the magic of model trains while benefiting from free admission — further fostering community connection through cultural heritage.
4. Holiday Mart at Gary J. Arthur Community Center
On December 6, 2025, the Holiday Mart returns to the Gary J. Arthur Community Center, showcasing a curated array of seasonal gifts and merchandise from juried artisans. This marketplace is an excellent opportunity to discover unique handcrafted items and decorations for the home, supporting local artisans and encouraging entrepreneurial spirit within the community.
5. Holiday Lights Map
This year, Howard County introduces an interactive holiday lights map to guide residents and visitors to the top locations adorned with festive decorations. By featuring hundreds of residential and commercial displays, the map makes it easy for families to plan outings filled with holiday spirit while enhancing local camaraderie.
6. Continued Holiday Train Experiences
The enchanting Holiday Train Garden at Gary J. Arthur Community Center remains a staple entertainment option, highlighted by the layout crafted by train enthusiast Dennis Moore. The ongoing operation of trains combined with a scenic aesthetic makes for a delightful experience for visitors, drawing attention to community-supported activities.
7. Seasonal Train Models at B&O Ellicott City Station Museum
Visitors can also explore the Holiday Train Garden at B&O Ellicott City Station Museum, featuring an impressive setup of seasonal train models throughout the museum, including the year-round exhibit housed in the Freight House. Operating during museum hours, this event provides free access for all ages, enhancing cultural and educational exposure for the community.
These events collectively showcase the rich tapestry of holiday activities in Howard County. With holiday light displays, interactive train gardens, and artisan markets, this season promises to offer something special for everyone. Community engagement is at the heart of these celebrations – consider attending to support local opportunities and enjoy what Howard County has to offer this festive season.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the Merriweather Symphony of Lights?
The Merriweather Symphony of Lights is a holiday event in Howard County featuring over 300,000 lights and larger-than-life holiday scenes. Visitors can experience the display by driving through or walking through the illuminated paths. The event runs from November 28, 2025, to January 3, 2026, with admission priced at $25 per vehicle for the drive-through experience. A portion of the proceeds supports Howard County General Hospital.
When does the Holiday Train Garden at Gary J. Arthur Community Center open?
The Holiday Train Garden at Gary J. Arthur Community Center opens on December 1, 2025. The exhibit features four continuously operating trains through an 8’ x 8’ scenic garden and is free for all ages. It is open during the center’s operating hours.
How can I find holiday light displays in Howard County?
Howard County provides an annual holiday lights map that guides residents and visitors to the best locations adorned with festive decorations. This interactive map showcases hundreds of residential and commercial displays across the county, making it easy to plan a family outing to tour the glowing lights.
What is the Holiday Mart at Gary J. Arthur Community Center?
The Holiday Mart at Gary J. Arthur Community Center is an event held on December 6, 2025, featuring seasonal gifts and merchandise created by juried artisans. It’s an excellent opportunity to find unique handcrafted items and home décor for the holiday season.
What is the Holiday Train Garden at B&O Ellicott City Station Museum?
The Holiday Train Garden at B&O Ellicott City Station Museum is an exhibit featuring seasonal train models throughout the museum, including the year-round exhibit in the Freight House. The train garden is open during museum hours from November 29, 2025, to January 5, 2026, with free admission for all ages.
Key Features of Howard County’s Holiday Events
| Event | Date | Location | Admission | Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Merriweather Symphony of Lights | Nov 28, 2025 – Jan 3, 2026 | Columbia, MD | $25 per vehicle (drive-through) | Over 300,000 lights and holiday scenes; supports Howard County General Hospital. |
| Holiday Train Garden at Gary J. Arthur Community Center | Dec 1, 2025 – Jan 5, 2026 | Cooksville, MD | Free | Four continuously operating trains through an 8’ x 8’ scenic garden; open during center hours. |
| Holiday Train Garden at B&O Ellicott City Station Museum | Nov 29, 2025 – Jan 5, 2026 | Ellicott City, MD | Free | Seasonal train models throughout the museum; open during museum hours. |
| Holiday Mart at Gary J. Arthur Community Center | Dec 6, 2025 | Cooksville, MD | Free | Seasonal gifts and merchandise by juried artisans; perfect for unique handcrafted items. |
| Holiday Lights Map | Available now | Howard County, MD | Free | Interactive map showcasing residential and commercial holiday light displays across the county. |
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