Celebrate Spring in Style: What to Expect at Ellicott City’s SpringFest

SpringFest 2025 is almost here, and it’s shaping up to be one of the best days of the year in Historic Ellicott City.

Walk, Bike, Park, or Ride!

Many people don't realize the event is fully walkable with continuous shuttle service running between major parking areas and venues. It's easy to explore all corners of Main Street without worrying about parking stress.

While Lot D and the Wine Bin will be closed to parking, all other lots in town will be open. Additionally, our free shuttle service will run continuously from 11:30am-6:30pm.

We will have 2 shuttles running continuously between St. Peter’s Church, the George Howard Building, the Ellicott City Historic Courthouse, and the Howard County Welcome Center. You can also hop on a shuttle sponsored by the Regional Transportation Authority leaving from the Long Gate Park & Ride to the Howard County Welcome Center on Main Street. 

This year, we will also have an electric 6-seater shuttle circulating Main Street from 12-6 to improve access for all. (sponsored by Visit Howard County)

Bike HoCo will be hosting a bike corral in lot D for those who want to cycle to the event. 

SpringFest with ECP: Music, Makers, and Family Fun in the Heart of Old Ellicott City

Join us for a full day of music, food, shopping, and hands-on activities throughout Old Ellicott City. Whether you’re here for live performances, family-friendly experiences, or one-of-a-kind local goods, SpringFest has something for everyone.

Start Your Day on the Trail

Festival Hub: Music, Makers & More

• 1:00–2:30 PM – The! Warshanna Quintet

• 2:45–4:15 PM – Brooklyn Kohl

• 4:30–6:00 PM – Ari and the Buffalo Kings

Wine Bin Stage | 1–7 PM

• 1:00–1:30 PM – Madisun Bailey

• 1:45–2:15 PM – Feathers & Flask

• 2:30–3:15 PM – Astronaut Class]

  3:30–4:15 PM – Film @ 11 Band

• 4:30–5:30 PM – Work In Progress

• 5:45–7:00 PM – Dirty Secret

• Bonus Evening Set: The Bibliopub at Backwater Books

• 8:00–10:00 PM – Seneca Creek Bluegrass

Artisan Marketplace

Browse 35+ vendors offering handmade and sustainable goods from across the region.

Sponsor Row

Enjoy demonstrations, giveaways, and interactive games courtesy of our SpringFest sponsors.

Hands-On Activities & Educational Fun

Rock Climbing Wall: Challenge yourself with a 24-foot climbing wall! ($10 fee). Wear comfortable clothes and closed-toed shoes! 

Ride the Spin Art Bike: Create a one-of-a-kind masterpiece to take home

Vivid Color Face Paint: Stop by for fun and festive face painting for kids and adults alike

Seneha Speaks Henna: Enjoy beautiful and temporary henna designs crafted by a skilled local artist

CMC Exotics: Interact with live reptiles and learn how to build your own terrarium using recycled materials

Robinson Nature Center (1–4 PM): Discover animal pelts and explore nature-themed sensory bins

Howard EcoWorks: Try native seed activities and test your nature knowledge

Howard County Arts Council: Craft potted flowers from recycled materials and enjoy coloring pages

Howard County Beekeepers: Explore local pollinator life, beekeeping tools, and honey sales

Patapsco Valley 4-H: Make pinwheels, caterpillars, and pipe cleaner alligators

Food & Drink Offerings

Grab something delicious from these festival favorite food trucks while you enjoy the music and activities nearby:

• Asian Taste

• Blowfish Poke & Grill

• Bull on the Loose

• Pop-Up Poutine

• Retro Grill

Be sure to check out the local brews in our Beer Tents!

Manor Hill Brewing: Farm Fuzz (farmhouse ale), Katherine’s Kölsch, Hillside Haze (hazy IPA)

Crooked Crab Brewing Co: Haze For Days (NEIPA), Pils Boh Baggins (Bohemian-style pilsner), Furious George (banana-infused Hefeweizen)

Athletic Brewing Company: Non Alcoholic Brews

What to Expect at SpringFest — and How to Make the Most of It

SpringFest is a full-day celebration that spans Old Ellicott City from the Trolley Trail to the Visitor Center, with music, shopping, food, and family activities happening all day long. Here are a few tips to help you have the best experience possible:

Rain or Shine

As long as it is safe to be outside, the festival is on! 

Bring a Tote Bag

With more than 35 artisan vendors selling handmade and sustainable goods, you’ll want an easy way to carry your local treasures.

Make it a Family Day

From the rock climbing wall to craft stations to live music, there’s something for all ages. Early birds can kick things off with the Trolley Trail Family Walk from 9 to 11 AM.

Snap & Share

Don’t forget to tag your photos with #loveOEC so we can feature you on our social media!