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. In this guide, we’ll take a closer look at some of the most popular events and tell you what to expect. We hope that you enjoy your time in Central Maryland this spring!
We will be adding new events regularly, so be sure to check back again!
Tips for Visiting Central Maryland in Spring
Central Maryland is easily accessible by train and by flights into BWI in Baltimore or National Airport in Washington D.C. The region has a mix of urban, suburban, and city areas. The DC Metro runs through several neighborhoods closer to the city. Uber and Lyft are also easy to find if you do not have your own transportation. Though options tend to be more limited if you venture out into Western Howard County.
If you’re asking yourself, what is the weather like in Central Maryland in spring? The answer is quite unpredictable! To make the most of the Central Maryland spring experience, visitors should come prepared with appropriate attire. Dressing in layers is recommended, as this will allow for easy adjustments to account for sudden temperature fluctuations. Carrying a light jacket and an umbrella is always a smart idea, as the spring rain showers can often appear without warning.
Spring is also the season when Central Maryland’s flora comes to life in full glory. Visitors can witness the blossoming of cherry trees, tulips, daffodils, azaleas, and dogwoods, among many others. While the blooms are beautiful, pollen is fierce in this area! Even if you do not suffer from allergies, you may be sensitive to the foliage. Taking an over-the-counter allergy medicine usually does the trick!
Prince George’s County
Prince George’s County is located just outside of Washington D.C. The area is usually bustling with events throughout the spring season.
Six Flags America | On-Going
Spring Break – Daily April 1-10
Six Flags America will be open daily while school is out of session for spring break! The park will open every day of the week from April 1st through April 10th from 11 am to 7pm. If you dare to stay later on weekends, Scream Break is a separate ticketed event that runs from 7 to 10 pm. See below for details.
Scream Break – Weekends April 1-9
No need to wait for Halloween! During Spring Break weekends, stay at the park late from 7 to 10 pm for some creepy thrills! The park will come alive with creatures, haunted attractions, and scare zones!
Sensory Friendly Days – May 7, June 14 + 28, July 12 + 26, Aug 9 +23
Six Flags America is the first Certified Autism Center™ in the DMV. This program includes special training for park leaders and a Six Flags America Safety and Accessibility Guide for guests that need special accommodations. Guests can use the digital IBCCES Accessibility Card (IAC) at any time in the parks. It is recommended to sign up 48 hours in advance for Six Flags’ Attractions Access Program.
In addition, Six Flags America has set aside special days this spring to accommodate sensory sensitive guests. On these specific Sensory-Friendly Six Flags dates, the park will limit park audio, delay operations of loud attractions that include LOONEY TUNES Prop Warehouse, Whistlestop Train, and Bourbon Street Fireball. Quiet breaks will be set up throughout the park and there will be additional signage and other enhancements.
Viva La Fiesta! – Weekends June 3-25
Viva La Fiesta! is a fun time to visit Six Flags America! In addition to all the popular rides and attractions, there will be live music and a DJ, latin entertainment, and dancing. Plus a special fiesta menu and experiences. Check out our video below for highlights from our visit!
Gaylord National Harbor | Thru May 8
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. It has entertainment, dining, and lots of transportation options on-site. And, they have a spectacular spring line-up of springtime events for all ages from March to May.
Spring-A-Long Scavenger Hunt – Thru May 13
Explore the resort and hunt for clues. Then, solve the puzzle to get a spring surprise! Each ticket purchase includes a Scavenger Hunt booklet and a prize.
Springtime Light Show – Thru May 14
Enjoy a complimentary color and light show in the harbor front atrium. This brand-new National Harbor light show runs nightly from seven until nine pm.
Wildlife Rescue – On-Going
Discover endangered animals on an augmented reality safari experience (presented by bubly). You can download the free Wildlife Rescue app and enjoy this activity at any of the four Gaylord properties.
National Harbor Spring Events | On-Going
Cherry blossom season is underway at the National Harbor. You don’t need to travel into the city to see the blooms. National Harbor has two hundred beautiful trees to see plus lots of seasonal events to celebrate spring!
Cherry Blossom Viewing – On-going FREE
No need to venture into the city! You can wander along the waterfront paths at National Harbor to see 200 Okame cherry trees in full bloom! Enjoy the spring blooms without the city crowds!
Cherry Blossom Origami Class – March 25-26
In this 60-minute workshop, Michiko Okuma will guide you through the Japanese art of paper folding. Learn tips and tricks to create common origami designs like a pro!
National Harbor’s 15th Anniversary- April 1 FREE
Celebrate the National Harbor’s 15th anniversary on April 1st with free performances on the Plaza Stage and Spirit Park Amphitheater. There will also be an art exhibition and exhibitors under the Capital Canopy as well as a drumming demonstration.
Sakura Sunday Festival – April 2 FREE
Head to National Harbor from 11 am to 6 pm to enjoy free Japanese culture activities including music, art and dance performances, a Japanese marketplace, and traditional food options.
Japanese Game Day – April 8 FREE
Presented by Katsucon, enjoy a fun day trying out Japanese table games. There will be a session from 10 am to 1 pm and another session from 2 to 5 pm that offer a variety of games for all ages.
Japanese Film Screening – April 8 FREE
After trying your hand at the table games, head over to the Plaza Screen to enjoy screenings of two Japanese anime movies. Lu Over the Wall starts at 2 pm followed by Mirai at 4 pm.
DC Boat Show – May 5-7
National Harbor is the place to be the first weekend of May! For the first time ever, the DC Boat Show will take over the National Harbor Marina with all kinds of boats from salboats to power boats. Plus, there will be vendors, live music, food and drinks too!
National Harbor CocktailPRO Competition – May 18
Watch the top bartenders and mixologists in the DMV area battle it out for the coveted title of CocktailPRO! The best part is that you can try all the drinks and decide for yourself! Plus, enjoy food and music from DJ Stylus. This 21+ cocktail part is one you won’t want to miss!
Salute the Sunset: U.S. Military Band Concerts – Saturdays starting May 20 FREE
Every Saturday night at 7 pm starting on May 20th, enjoy a free performance from a U.S. military band at the Plaza Stage. The season kicks off with the U.S. Navy Band Commodores.
National Harbor Ice Cream Festival – June 17-18
Celebrate the arrival of summer by sampling cool treats from all over the East Coast! Vendors will compete for prizes in a variety of categories, and you can help judge! This popular annual festival will include entertainment and a variety of food, drink and merchandise vendors.
Movies on the Potomac | Thursdays/Sundays Starting May 4th
Head to National Harbor’s Plaza and watch a free outdoor movie on the big screen overlooking the 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. Click above for the full schedule.
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!
Horowitz Center Visual & Performing Arts | On-Going Activities
Musical Potpourri – March 25
Enjoy a concert with Howard Community College faculty at the Monteabaro Recital Hall. Lyric soprano Lu-Husuan Lucy Chen, pianist David Chapman, clarinetist Kyle Coughlin, and cellist Nah Cho will perform a variety of songs. Admission for children 6 to 12 years old is free with a paying general or senior ticket.
Easter Cantata | April 7-9
Easter Cantata at Harvester Baptist Church – Ellicott City
Enjoy a free musical celebration of Easter with the Harvester Baptist Church choir in Ellicott City! This “Living Hope” Easter concert will be held on April 7th at 7:30 pm and April 9th at 10:30 am. Tickets are not required.
Kid’s Fest | April 8
Kid’s Fest at Meadowbrook Park – April 8th
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.
Ellicott City SpringFest | April 15 FREE
Ellicott City SpringFest – April 15th
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.
Blossoms of Hope | On-Going Activities
Blossoms of Hope Scavenger Hunt – Starting April 15th
The Blossoms of Hope Scavenger Hunt supports the community through beautification projects that enhance our quality of life and support cancer-related and other important causes around Howard County. Grab some friends and family to search for items hidden among the beautiful cherry tree groves throughout Howard County. This year’s hunt has been expanded to include community partners including local restaurants! Check out the Blossoms of Hope Scavenger Hunt map here.
Register for the event here for a chance to win prizes and receive a tote of goodies from local businesses! After registering, you can either pick up your gift bag at the Howard County Welcome Center any time between 10 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. on Saturday, April 15, or between 10:30 a.m. and 3 p.m. on Sunday, April 16. Note that Saturday, April 15 is Spring Fest in historic Ellicott City, so arrive in the morning or stay and play at the event! You can also arrange alternate pick up dates/times by emailing info@blossomsofhope.org.
Merriweather Post Pavilion | On-Going Activities
M3 Rock Festival – May 6-7
Calling all ’80s rock band fans! The M3 Rock Festival is two full days of music you will not want to miss! Headliners include Styx, Kix, Great White, Warrant, Extreme, Quiet Riot, and more!
Guster with the Howard County Youth Orchestra – May 21
DCACC presents Guster, a Boston-based alternative rock band, that will be performing with the Howard County Youth Orchestra on May 21st. Artist, songwriter, and activist Kyshona will also be performing at the event.
Capital Jazz Fest – June 2-4
The Capital Jazz Fest is an annual favorite at Merriweather Post Pavilion in Columbia! Now in its 30th year, 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. The Capital Jazz Fest will be kicking off with a Friday Night Soul concert featuring Fantasia and Joe. The renowned George Benson will headline Saturday night and Sunday will include Can You Feel It: A Tribute to Michael Jackson with surprise guests! British musicians Corinne Bailey Rae, Incognito, Loose Ends, and Marsha Ambrosius will also perform. Additional headliners include Ne-Yo, Stokley, Robert Glasper, The Isley Brothers, Dianne Reeves, Peabo Bryson, and more!
Noah Kahan: The Stick Season Tour – June 9
Noah Kahan will bring his folk-infused indie rock to Merriweather on June 9th. The concert will feature special guest Joy Oladokun. Olakun’s music ranges from rock, R&B and folk and is known for weaving in her experiences as a queer woman of color.
Young The Giant with Milky Chance
Young The Giant is an alternative rock band known for their top hits “My Body”, “Cough Syrup”, and “Apartment”. They will be touring with the German rock band Milky Chance.
Re:SET Concert Series – June 16-18
Re:SET concert series is a brand-new initiative heading to 12 cities in late spring and early summer. Headliners focus on alternative rock, R&B and indie acts including LCD Soundsystem, Boygenius, Steve Lacy, Cairo, and more.
Baltimore
Baltimore is Maryland’s largest city. Making up the northeast hub in the Baltimore-Washington area, Charm City always has something fun going on!
Downtown Baltimore | On-Going Activities
Spring Break Skate – March 31-April 8
Spring Break Skate is underway at Hopkins Plaza (across from CFG Arena)! Skate sessions last one hour starting at the top of the hour. Adult tickets are available for $10 per person per session and tickets for children under twelve are available at $8 per person per session. Bring your own skates or rent them for $5 per pair. Check out the full schedule online for times and special themed skate sessions including Family Skate and College Night!
Gabriel Network Gala – May 5
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. This important event will be held from 6 to 9 pm at the Sheraton Inner Harbor Hotel on May 5th. Your ticket includes cocktail hour, open bar, heavy hors d’oeuvres, free parking, and a silent auction.
