Family events in Columbia, MD

Puppy Socials have returned to The Coventry School, Inc. For Dogs and Their People. These sessions provide a safe setting for puppies to build social skills and also offer a chance to observe how the school operates. More information is available on the school’s website.

Each Friday afternoon from spring through fall, multiple food trucks gather in the upper lot at the Elkridge Volunteer Fire Department. Volunteers will also be selling drinks to pair with your meal this season. Parking in the upper lot is limited and includes several accessible spaces, and additional parking is available on nearby streets. Please park on the shoulder and avoid turn lanes or the roadway to prevent tickets. The station hall and restrooms will be open to the public, and station tours are not available during Food Truck Friday. The weekly lineup and vendor menus are updated on the department website.

Food Truck Friday at Braglio Farms brings together Maryland food trucks, scoops from Sundaes Ice Cream Shoppe, and fresh finds at the Country Market. Bring your own beverages and choose a cozy spot by the firepits, relax under the covered pavilion, or enjoy the picnic seating while kids discover the log playground. Farm activities add to the fun with hay rides, a petting farm, and lots of space for photos and open-air wandering. Expect easy parking, and on select days look for a moon bounce and live music.

River Hill Village Center hosts a Summer Sounds Series night featuring a We Love the 80’s theme, with live music and activities suitable for families. Unwind and enjoy the season as Columbia Village Centers present a themed evening built around music and simple summer fun.

Benefiting the Music City Maryland Association, this community gathering is presented with support from The Shops on Mellor. Attendees are encouraged to pick up carry-out from a favorite Catonsville restaurant and enjoy the festivities together. Parking details are available to help plan the visit.

Experience live music and outdoor entertainment at Granville Gude Park with a free concert open to everyone. Bring a lawn chair and relax as The Too Much Talent Band fills the park with a vibrant mix of hip hop, R&B, pop, soul, funk, and jazz. Formed in 2017, TMTB was created to deliver a dynamic live show with a fresh approach to these genres, making for an engaging night in the open air.

The sixth annual back to school community giveaway hosted by The Empress Team offers a free, family-friendly day focused on helping students begin the year prepared and confident. Attendees can find complimentary backpacks and school supplies while quantities last, fresh fruits and vegetables, children’s books, and no-cost haircuts for kids, plus music, games, local vendors, and useful community resources. Last year the effort supported more than 1,200 children, and this time the goal is to reach 1,500 or more children and families with essential supplies and support. Children must be accompanied by an adult to receive items, and distribution is first come, first served while supplies remain. Families are encouraged to register in advance. This community effort is made possible through the continued support of volunteers, sponsors, vendors, and partner organizations.

A high energy party band sets the tone for one of this season’s special concerts. Bring a blanket or your own lawn chairs to relax on the lawn, with a limited number of benches and picnic tables available on a first come, first served basis. Picnics, snacks, and nonalcoholic drinks are allowed, and light snacks and beverages can be purchased at Gustav’s Cafe, with all proceeds supporting Lurman Woodland Theater. Restrooms are available. Please note that pets, alcohol, drugs, cannabis, and grills are not permitted, and smoking is allowed only in the designated area.

Kings Contrivance Village Center hosts an installment of the Summer Sounds Series presented across Columbia Village Centers. This edition features the Crafts & Cords theme with live music and family friendly activities, offering a festive way to enjoy the season.

Budding musicians ages 7 to 12 can get a taste of playing in a band at this beginner-friendly Rock 101 camp. No prior experience is required. Campers explore instruments through musical games and activities, rehearse and practice songs throughout the week, and build confidence in a supportive setting. The week wraps up with a concert where participants perform the songs they have been working on for family and friends. Each day features rehearsals, practice time, and fun music-based games led by the camp instructors. Students should bring lunch, snacks, water, and hearing protection. To help keep everyone safe, please avoid packing any nut products, and do not bring toy or real weapons. School of Rock emphasizes a welcoming environment for all campers.

This summer program offers a lively three-hour session filled with movement and play. Each week brings a new theme, featuring games, relay races, and interactive activities that keep children active and smiling throughout the season. Families can tailor attendance to their schedules with flexible mix-and-match options, and there are savings available when booking multiple days.

At The Common Kitchen, families can take advantage of a special offer where kids eat free with a purchase of $15 or more from any vendor. Choose from an array of international flavors, ranging from savory plates to sweet treats, all in one place. It is a convenient way to skip cooking and enjoy a relaxed outing together.

Teens can head to the Howard County Fair for a fun outing filled with amusement rides, classic fair treats like funnel cake, and a look at prize-winning farm animals and vegetables, plus award-winning special showcases from across the county. The cost is $10 and includes transportation and admission, and participants should plan to cover their own games, rides, and refreshments. All trips depart from the Robert J. DiPietro Community Center.