Best Spring Events in Maryland (2026): Family-Friendly Festivals, Flowers, and Weekend Things to Do

If you’re looking for the best spring events in Maryland, this guide highlights family-friendly festivals, flower displays, outdoor concerts, Earth Day celebrations, cultural events, and seasonal things to do across Central Maryland and beyond. From cherry blossoms near Washington, D.C. to waterfront events, art festivals, and local favorites in Howard County, Baltimore, Annapolis, and National Harbor, these spring events are perfect for families, couples, and weekend day trips.

We will be adding new events regularly, so be sure to check back again!

At-a-Glance show

Tips for Visiting Maryland in Spring

Spring is one of the best times to explore Maryland, especially for festivals, garden events, cherry blossoms, and outdoor family fun. Central Maryland is easy to reach by car, Amtrak, MARC, and flights into BWI or Reagan National. If you’re staying closer to Washington, D.C., Metro access can also be helpful for some destinations.

Spring weather in Maryland can change quickly, so dress in layers and pack a light rain jacket or umbrella. This is also peak bloom season for cherry blossoms, tulips, azaleas, daffodils, and dogwoods, so it is a great time for scenic walks and photos. If you are sensitive to pollen, consider bringing allergy medicine, especially for outdoor festivals and park visits.

Anne Arundel County Spring Events

Anne Arundel County sits along the Chesapeake Bay and is a great choice for a spring day trip from both Baltimore and Washington, D.C. Expect a mix of waterfront views, history, live performances, and seasonal events in and around Annapolis.

Maryland Day in Annapolis | Mar 21-22

Enjoy free admission and discounts to several attractions in downtown Annapolis. Historic attractions include the William Paca House & Gardens and the Maryland State House.

Candlelight Concerts at Maryland Hall I Various Dates

Candlelight Concerts are a fantastic way for you to experience your favorite musical artists! A talented live orchestra plays top hits with a backdrop of hundreds of beautiful glowing candles. These concerts run approximately 60 minutes in length making it the perfect event to attend with your family.

Budget Tip: Use my code DARLAS34567 to get a $8.00 discount on your first purchase in the Fever app!

Maryland State House I On-Going FREE

The Maryland State House is open to the public every day except Christmas and New Years Day and free self-guided tours of the Maryland State House are available in the Archives Room on the first floor of the building. Spring is an especially beautiful time to visit the grounds and see blooming flowers. Check out our Instagram reel to see what you can expect on the inside of the State House from elegant portraits to informative exhibits.

Spring Events in Prince George’s County

Prince George’s County offers some of the most popular spring events near Washington, D.C., with family festivals, performing arts, campus events, and waterfront activities that are easy to pair into a day trip.

Maryland Day at UMD I Apr 25 FREE

Maryland Day is one of the biggest family-friendly spring events in the region. Held across the University of Maryland campus in College Park, this annual open house features hundreds of free activities, performances, exhibits, demonstrations, and hands-on experiences for all ages. Check the official event page for the latest 2026 schedule, parking, and activity map.

Clarice Smith Performing Arts Center Public Events I On-Going

The Clarice Smith Performing Arts Center is located at the University of Maryland in College Park. They over a wide variety of public performances, films, workshops, family-friendly events, and more throughout the year from the School of Music, School of Theatre, Dance and Performance Studies, and various local and world-renowned professionals. Many performances are free and can be found by filtering on The Clarice’s events calendar.

Gaylord National Harbor | Thru Spring

Gaylord National Harbor is ideally situated right across the water from Washington D.C. This resort is a Marriott property and a wonderful place to stay, especially during cherry blossom season. It has a rotating line-up of resort activities for all ages, daily morning yoga, and an indoor pool, dining, and lots of transportation options on-site. One of our favorite activities is the nightly interactive light show inside the resort’s atrium overlooking the Potomac River. Expedia Viewfinder Travel Blog named the National Harbor the“𝘣𝘦𝘴𝘵 𝘱𝘭𝘢𝘤𝘦 𝘰𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘌𝘢𝘴𝘵 𝘊𝘰𝘢𝘴𝘵 𝘵𝘰 𝘣𝘦 𝘢𝘵 𝘴𝘶𝘯𝘴𝘦𝘵” and we have to agree!

National Harbor Spring Events | On-Going

National Harbor has two hundred beautiful trees to see plus lots of seasonal events to celebrate spring! National Harbor is one of the most reliable places to find spring things to do near Maryland, especially during cherry blossom season. Between seasonal waterfront blooms, resort activities, dining, family attractions, movies, classes, and live performances, there is usually something happening throughout the season.

Rather than listing every limited-time event here, use the official National Harbor event calendar for the latest 2026 spring happenings, including cherry blossom programming, outdoor movies, military band concerts, and family-friendly weekend events.

Movies on the Potomac | Thursdays/Sundays Starting the first week of May

Head to National Harbor’s Plaza for Movies on the Potomac! Watch a free outdoor movie on the big screen overlooking the scenic Potomac River. Every Sunday is family movie night at 6 pm. Every Thursday night is date night with show time starting at 7 pm.

Bring a lawn chair and pack some food or order from one of the many eateries in the area. Movies run from the beginning of May until the end of September.

Howard County Spring Events

Howard County, Maryland is a hidden gem that is perfect for those that enjoy a mix of the country and the city! The county has miles of scenic trails, parks, and lakes. Plus, an endless number of entertainment options and restaurants to choose from!

Howard County Cherry Blossoms I March-April FREE

Skip the D.C. traffic and crowds and head to Howard County, Maryland to see the cherry blossoms! Howard County Cherry Blossoms are expected to bloom around March 20th and should last until at least April 10th. The cherry blossom blooming timeframe and duration will fluctuate based on the weather. You’ll find lots of open space, free parking, and scenic, peaceful spots to take photos. There are over 300 cherry trees throughout this beautiful county! To maximize your visit, check out the Howard County Cherry Blossom Map when planning your route. It helps you easily visit multiple bloom spots in a single day while still leaving time to enjoy nearby shops, dining, and attractions.

Howard County Welcome Center Art & Culture Exhibits I On-Going FREE

Explore art and culture at the Howard County Welcome Center in historic Ellicott City. Located in a historic 1939 post office, see historical photos of the local area, rotating art exhibits, and find out about current events and activities. The Welcome Center is open Tuesday through Sunday from 10 am to 5 pm.

Howard County College GreenFest April 11 FREE

Celebrate Earth Day at Howard County’s largest eco-friendly event! GreenFest brings together local businesses, nonprofits, and community organizations to help families learn simple ways to live more sustainably. Kids and parents alike can explore hands-on exhibits, shop native plants, and enjoy a full schedule of educational workshops and demos throughout the day.

Don’t miss fun experiences like the Transition Repair Café (register to bring items from home to fix!), giveaways including compost bins and trees, and family-friendly sessions like pollinator adventures and eco cooking demos. Bonus: you can bike in and use the free bike corral or hop on an RTA bus to make your visit even greener.

Books in Bloom I May 9 FREE

Come out and meet your favorite authors and this all-ages festival at Merriweather District! This free event features a flower shop, community book swap, children’s activity area, wine bar, presentations, author interviews and more. Don’t miss the DMV’s most popular literary event!

Columbia Lakefront | On-Going Activities

Columbia Festival of the Arts Lakefest – June 12-14 FREE

Enjoy a free weekend of live music, art, and activities at the Columbia Lakefront. A variety of arts and crafts vendors as well as food vendors will be available. This is always a fun family event to kick off the summer!

Merriweather District | On-Going Activities

Color Burst Park Splash Pad – Mid-May thru Aug 31 FREE

The Color Burst Splash Pad is the perfect budget-friendly place to let kids play while parents grab a drink from one of the Merriweather District eateries and hang out on the open square.

Merriweather Row Fit Series I Starts in Early June FREE

Come to Color Burst Park on Tuesday nights starting in early June from 6:30 to 7:15 pm to get a summer sweat session in! Local gyms F45, YogasSix and Mayweather Boxing + Fitness will rotate in leading FREE bootcamp fitness, yoga, and cardio boxing classes. Participants must sign a waiver and pre-register through the link above.

Horowitz Center Visual & Performing Arts | On-Going Activities

Head to Howard Community College for concerts, dance performances, film series, and other cultural events throughout the spring. The full schedule can be found online.

Kid’s Fest | April 8

Kid’s Fest at Meadowbrook Park – April 19th

Howard County Recreation & Parks present Kid’s Fest at Meadowbrook Park! From 11 am to 2 pm, kids can participate in an egg hunt, games, sports activities, arts and crafts, and more. Register in advance for discounted admission.

Old Ellicott City | On-Going Activities

Ellicott City SpringFest – April 18th FREE

Ellicott City Spring Fest has a lot of fun activities for the entire family. There will be outdoor music on two stages – one near the Wine Bin and one near the Howard County Welcome Center in Lot D. Browse local art and crafts for sale at B&O Plaza on lower Main Street. Kids can enjoy free arts and crafts next door to the Wine Bin at the Log Cabin. There will also be face painters, local beer and wine, mocktails, food trucks and other delicious options available from local businesses.

Little Market Cafe Concerts – Starting April 17

Every weekend, Little Market Cafe hosts Concerts in the Courtyard. Enjoy a mix of musicians on Friday nights and at two times on Saturday! Check out the live music schedule for times and performers!

Ellicott City Farmers Market – May 24 thru Oct 25 FREE

Shop local vendors and farm-fresh produce at this market that runs the last Saturday in May to the last Saturday in October at Tiber Park in Ellicott City from 9 am to 1 pm. Grab some breakfast or lunch and enjoy the live music.

Movie Nights at The Wine Bin – Starting in Late May thru Oct FREE

Come to The Wine Bin for outdoor movies starting at 9 pm on Saturdays and other select nights from late Spring through early Fall! Bring your lawn chairs, grab some takeout, and get some free popcorn (donations accepted for a local non-profit). These free movie nights are sponsored by The Wine Bin so be sure to pop in for drinks and other snacks!

Blossoms of Hope | On-Going Activities

Pink Greens Golf Classic – May 18th in Ellicott City

Calling all golfers! This event benefiting Blossoms of Hope is declared as “the most fun you can legally have on the golf course”. Dress in pink to show support and play 18 holes on Turf Valley Resort‘s beautiful course! This year’s theme is “feeling groovy” so tie-dye and retro is in fashion with prizes going to the best dressed! There will also be fun contests throughout the day including “longest shot” and an auction. Bring your appetite because lunch and dinner are provided. Register as an individual or a team with the link above!

Howard County Fairgrounds I On-Going Activities 

Annual Maryland Sheep & Wool Festival I May 2-3

This popular farm festival has something for everyone! It will feature over 260 vendors and more than 600 sheep with free events and demos all weekend! Live music will feature Celtic, Appalachian, and fiddle performers as well as the Slim Harrison Family Hoedown! Food options will include a Saturday Shephards Feast, Sunday Breakfast Buffet, and a festival farm market with many local producers and farmers.

Merriweather Post Pavilion | On-Going Activities

M3 Rock Festival – May 2

Calling all ’80s rock band fans! The M3 Rock Festival is two full days of music you will not want to miss! Headliners include top rock legends including Sabastian Bach and David Lee Roth.

AAPI Festival – May Date TBD FREE

The Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Festival is an annual spring event held at Merriweather Park at Symphony Woods. It will feature cultural activities including music and dance performances, exhibits and Asian food vendors. The festival is free, but advanced registration is encouraged using the link above. Check out our fun from last year on Instagram!

Wine in the Woods – May 16-17

Wine in the Woods is an annual festival featuring live music, food and craft vendors, and over 20 wineries and breweries. The festival is held at Symphony Woods on the Merriweather Post Pavilion campus. The taster ticket includes a wine glass and unlimited wine tastings. There is also a VIP Wine Explorer Village ticket that includes a special curated local wine selection, a larger tasting glass, food, and a separate bathroom area.

Capital Jazz Fest – TBD June

The Capital Jazz Fest is an annual favorite at Merriweather Post Pavilion in Columbia! For over 30 years, the ‘jazz festival with soul’ will include over 30 acts across two stages. The Pavilion Stage will emphasize contemporary jazz while the Symphony Woods Stage will focus on R&B and soul music performances.

M3 Rock Festival at Merriweather Post Pavilion in Columbia, Maryland

Montgomery County Spring Events

Montgomery County is Maryland’s largest county by population. Situated right outside of Washington DC bordering PG County, this area is a wonderful place to find things to do in spring!

Rockville Arts Festival – May 2-3 FREE

The VisArts Rockville Arts Festival will feature 130 artists at Rockville Town Square from 10 am to 5 pm on Saturday and Sunday. The festival will also include local food and drink vendors and a community art project.

Lakefront Live Concerts at Rio Lakefront – TBD May-Sept FREE

Enjoy free concerts on Friday nights at the Rio’s Boardwalk Stage near Guapo’s. Grab food from an area restaurant and enjoy the Beer Garden!

Spring Makers Market at Rio Lakefront – May 2-3 FREE

Browse the outdoor market at Rio Lakefront featuring 100 local artists on Saturday and Sunday from 11 am to 5 pm on Grand Corner Avenue. The event will also include live music performances, pop-up cocktail stations, and spring workshops!

Baltimore Spring Events

Baltimore is Maryland’s largest city. Making up the northeast hub in the Baltimore-Washington area, Charm City always has something fun going on!

Pawject Runway April 24

Pawject Runway is a must-attend Baltimore spring event and one of the largest animal rescue fundraisers in Maryland, returning to CFG Bank Arena for one unforgettable night. This high-energy, family-friendly experience supports Baltimore Animal Rescue & Care Shelter (BARCS) and features adoptable dogs and cats walking the runway alongside celebrity “Big Softies,” including professional athletes, media personalities, and local influencers.

Beyond the fashion show, guests can enjoy interactive experiences like Cuddle Corners with adoptable animals, a glambot and selfie stations, pet-themed crafts and activities, raffles, merchandise, a best dressed contest, and food and drinks for purchase. The popular online silent auction—one of the biggest in the region—opens for bidding on April 19.

VIP tickets include exclusive access to the all-inclusive Softie Lounge with food and drinks from top local restaurants. Doors open at 6 pm, and the runway show begins at 8 pm.

Paw Patrol Live! May 9

Don’t miss PAW Patrol Live! when it visits Hippodrome Theatre in Baltimore this spring!

This show is a great opportunity to introduce your kids to live theater and is recommended for children from one to six years old. It will include interactive sing-along numbers, dancing, clapping, and audience participation to keep your kids engaged.

VIP (Very Important Pup) packages are also available. The VIP experience includes preferred seating and a special Meet and Greet photo opportunity with two Paw Patrol characters after the show. Note that during the show, there will be flashing lights and may be confetti at the end of the performance. ADA seating is available for all performances. Contact the local venue to find out more about accomodations as they vary by theater.

**Paw Patrol Live! will also be at the DMV’s EagleBank Arena in Fairfax between May 1 and 3rd.

📍Location: 12 N. Eutaw Street, Baltimore, MD

Wine Village – May 7-31 FREE

The producers of the popular Baltimore Christmas Village are back at West Shore Park with a brand-new spring festival! Kicking off Mother’s Day weekend, Baltimore Wine Village is the perfect place for family and friends with lawn games, movie nights, and live performances.

For kids, there will be a carousel and kids passport stations that allow them to learn more about German culture. On weekends, there will be a balloon artist, face painters, and a caricature artist!

Wine Village will include European eats including Belgian Fries, French Crêpes, imported Swiss Raclette cheese, and German Bratwurst. There will be over unique 30 vendors as well as:

  • Wine Terrace on the park’s lawn area, complete with a pop-up garden with live trees, flower beds, and family friendly German style picnic tables.
  • Picnic Point with up-close seating for Thursday movie nights and daily live performances up close.
  • The Grape Escape with comfy lawn chairs set back from the crowd.
  • The Old Wine Château with centuries old European wine selections.
  • The New World Wine Villa with contemporary styles of wine with bright fruity flavors.
  • The Maryland Wine Manor highlighting an assortment of wine from Maryland’s largest winemaker, Boordy Vineyards.
  • The Eiskeller (German for cold room) will feature ice-cold German Bowles, a traditional style fruity wine slushie cocktail that can be topped with fresh wine-infused fruit.
  • The Charcuterie Châlet with one-of-a-kind charcuterie cones filled with meats, cheeses, nuts, fruit, and more.

Candlelight Concerts – Various Dates

Candlelight Concerts take place throughout Baltimore at several landmark locations that are just as fascinating as the concert itself! These concerts are an excellent way to appreciate top musical artists in a new light….mesmerizing candlelight! Pair that with the most talented orchestras in the area, and you have yourself an amazing evening! This spring, there are several Candlelight Concerts in Baltimore.

Budget Tip: Use my code DARLAS34567 to get a $8.00 discount on your first purchase in the Fever app!

Pours for Paws at B&O Railroad Museum – TBD May

The concept is simple! Drink beer, save animals at Pours for Paws at the B&O Railroad Museum! Your ticket includes unlimited beer, spirits, and cocktail sampling, live music, a vendor market, games, and adoptable animals to support Baltimore Animal Rescue Care & Shelter. Discounted admission is also available for those under 21 and designated drivers. This is a family-friendly event and takes place in a spacious tent so it is a great option to attend rain or shine!

Gabriel Network Gala – April 24

Dress up and do good! Buy tickets for the Gabriel Network Gala that will raise money for women facing crisis pregnancies in Maryland and Washington D.C. Your ticket includes cocktail hour, open bar, heavy hors d’oeuvres, free parking, and a silent auction.

Frederick County Spring Events

Friday Night Live at Black Ankle Vineyards – On-Going

Enjoy live music on Friday nights starting at 5 pm. Plus, music on the second Saturday of the month at this family-friendly brewery in Mount Airy. Click the link above for the latest schedule of events!

Maryland Iron Festival – May 16-17

The Annual Maryland Iron Festival celebrates Maryland’s ironmaking history with a weekend full of FREE activities. Highlights include:

  • Live blacksmithing demonstrations and hands-on casting and molding with experts from Hopewell Furnace.
  • The iconic IRON POUR featuring 3000-degree molten iron.
  • Family activities with Keystone Ironworks, guided tours of historic sites like Harriet Chapel, and colonial games for kids.
  • Live music, an artist and maker market, and plein air artists at work.
  • Fun contests like the cannonball toss and anvil-lifting.
  • Tours of the iron furnace ruins and visits to the Museum of the Ironworker, F.W. Fraley General Store, and Collier’s Log House.
  • Food trucks, a beer and wine garden, and treats from an old-fashioned bake sale.

All this takes place amidst the scenic beauty of Catoctin State Park and historic Catoctin Furnace. It’s a perfect blend of history, fun, and relaxation!

P3 Pitties BINGO – TBD Date

Calling all BINGO lovers! Get tickets now for P3 Pitties BINGO in Frederick, Maryland to benefit Perfectly Paired Pitties dog rescue! It will be a fun day of bingo, raffles, tip jars, 50/50, & more with the prizes up to $500! The event will be held at the Frederick Elks from 12:30 to 5 pm.

Dog Days at Linganore in the Vines – May-Sept 31

The perfect event for people who love dogs AND wine! Head to Linganore Winecellers in Mount Airy on select Friday nights. This family-friendly event features local wine, pet-friendly picnicking, and a featured animal rescue. 20% of purchases will be donated to the designated rescue on the night of the event!

Black Rock Farm Highland Cow Events – On-Going

Black Rock Farm in Myersville hosts monthly cow-themed events all seasons. Upcoming spring events include:

  • Happy “MOO-ther’s” Day Pop Up Event – May 8-10: Includes hands-on interaction time with the friendly Highland cows, an Insta-worthy photo area with the calves, and a clay pot Highland cow craft activity.
  • TBD June Event

Don’t want to wait for a special event? Reserve a “Highland Hangout” Session! Each 45 minute private session allows you to have hands-on time with the cows plus learn more about them from first generation farmer, Victoria. Interactions include brushing, feeding, and heavy petting!

Memorial Day Weekend Events in Maryland

Free Memorial Day Weekend Events:

Other Memorial Day Weekend Fun:

There's lots of fun family events this spring in Maryland! From festivals to amusement parks and free activities, there is always something fun to do ! #centralmaryland #dmv #howardcountymd #nationalharbor #montgomerycountymd #baltimore

If you're looking for something fun to do this spring, look no further than Central Maryland! There are a ton of great festivals and events taking place in the next few months. From National Harbor's Cherry Blossom Festival to the various concerts happening throughout the region, there's something for everyone! #baltimore #nationalharbor #maryland #springevents

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3 Comments

  1. Wow, Maryland seems to be quite underrated, as I’ve never heard from someone heading there for a vacation. But that’s not so unusual: People tend to flock to those hyped destinations and miss out on great locations like this. Anyway, spring is my favorite season, obviously, and what better way to get into the groove by joining some of those amazing events you’re introducing here.

    Reply

  2. I didn’t realize Central Maryland had so many great spring events! The Candlelight Concerts at Maryland Hall sound magical—I’d love to experience live music surrounded by glowing candles. And visiting the Maryland State House while the gardens are blooming? Definitely adding that to my spring bucket list! Thanks for the tips—especially the heads-up about allergy season!

    Reply
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