Family events in Howard County, MD

The Common Kitchen offers a family friendly special where a child’s meal is free with a purchase of at least $15 from any vendor. Choose from a broad range of global flavors in one convenient spot, from savory plates to sweet treats, and enjoy an easy, relaxed night out without the cooking. It is a simple way to let everyone pick what they love while keeping dinner plans straightforward and budget conscious.

This Puppy Social at The Coventry School, Inc. For Dogs and Their People in Columbia offers a safe place for puppies to interact while their people observe how the school operates. The event centers on early social experiences and provides a welcoming look at the school’s approach and environment.

From spring through fall, the Elkridge Volunteer Fire Department hosts multiple food trucks in the station’s top lot every Friday afternoon. This season, the Elkridge Volunteers will be selling drinks to go with your food. The weekly lineup and vendor menus are posted on the station’s website. Parking in the upper lot is limited, with several handicap spaces available. Overflow and additional parking are available on nearby streets. Please park legally on the shoulder, as parking in turn lanes or the roadway may lead to a ticket. The station’s hall and restrooms will be open to the public, and station tours are not available during Food Truck Friday.

Night fishing at Centennial Lake offers after-hours access coordinated by Howard County Recreation and Parks. Anglers should bring their own fishing pole, bait, tackle, bug repellent, a flashlight or lantern, and a chair or a boat. The program is open to all ages, and participants younger than 16 must be accompanied by a registered adult. Registration is on-site only, and the fee is $5. Activities take place at the Centennial Park South Boat Launch.

Presented by the Howard County Chinese Cultural Center, this cultural celebration leads visitors from the Tang capital of Chang’an to the Song capital of Bianjing, showcasing a millennium of Chinese history through performances, poetry, food, traditional arts, exhibits, and hands-on activities. Explore scenes inspired by Tang-era streets, try traditional Hanfu attire, and enjoy live shows alongside costumed characters from the period. Solve riddles, take on cultural challenges, and take part in family friendly games with opportunities to win prizes. Savor classic Chinese foods and browse artisan booths highlighting calligraphy, tea traditions, and handmade works. The event also marks the Mid-Autumn Festival, offering families, students, and community members a welcoming way to experience the heritage of ancient China in an interactive format. Groups purchasing five or more tickets receive a 20 percent discount.

Crossroads hosts its annual Trunk or Treat with trunks to explore, candy, games, an inflatable obstacle course, free food, crafts, face painting, pony rides, and more. Registration is free. Families who pre-register their children can check in faster by using the online registration line.