7 Things to Do Over Memorial Day Weekend in Howard County

Pick Strawberries at Gorman Farm

You better get there early if you want to get your hands on some fresh grown strawberries at this farm located in North Laurel, because they tend to get picked out by early afternoon. However, avoid disappointment by first calling their “Picking Status Hotline” at 301-908-8063 or checking the strawberry status on their Facebook Page.

Go Fishing!

The weather Memorial Day weekend is expected to float around the mid-70s, meaning great fishing weather. The Patapsco River is home mostly to sunfish, smallmouth bass, and rainbow trout, according to the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR). DNR also recommends Centennial Lake on the Columbia/ Ellicott City line, which includes species such as largemouth bass, channel catfish, trout and the rare tiger muskie. DNR reports tiger muskies have been in stocked in the lake since 1995 and there are some now over 36 inches that “provide an explosive fight for anglers who hook into one.” Remember, don’t forget to obtain a fishing license, if you’re older than 16.

Ham it up at the Maryland FM Hamfest

Don’t expect ham of the pork variety. This event, at the Howard County Fair Grounds, is geared toward ham radio fans interested in sharing their hobby, over. The cost to attend is $6 per person, or $8 for a tailgate space. If you can’t make it but want to check out the conversation, tune your ham radio to WA3DZD/R Repeater 146.16/16.76. I have no idea how to do that, but I assume the amateur radio operators do. As a bonus, plenty of good food and drink will be available.

Take a Dip in one of Columbia Association’s Pools

CA’s network of outdoor pools officially re-opens on Saturday, May 25. Pools are available for use by CA members under different plans, but non-residents can also use the pools by paying a monthly membership fee.

Have a Drink on the Cacao Lane Deck

The Cacao Lane deck is one of the more secretive spots on Ellicott City’s Main Street. It’s situated on the rooftop of the restaurant overlooking a portion of Main Street. The deck opened earlier in May on Friday and Saturday nights, but starting Memorial Day weekend the patio opens for Thursday and Sunday nights. The deck has its own dedicated bar and a kitchen where it serves a limited menu geared toward outside eating, according to manager Owen Hanratty. “Friday is always really busy,” said Hanratty.

Explore one of Howard County’s Farmers Markets

The county’s network of farmers markets opened earlier this May. The markets, which feature fresh produce, bread and baked goods among other rotating vendors, are open Wednesday to Sunday at five different locations throughout the county.

Don’t Want to Stay in the County? Try One of These Day Trips.

Take a trip to Annapolis, one of Delaware’s beaches, Harpers Ferry or explore the history in Gettysburg. Find out about traveling to these locations in our day trip guide.

Have suggestions? Add them in the comments.