Reserve your tickets now for Howard County’s signature arts event - the Celebration of the Arts in Howard County! 

Begin the best night of the year with a reception at 6pm where 15 to 20 local culinary sponsors will showcase their finest foods. Pile your plate high and enjoy the Art Auction featuring work by local and regional artists. Then, at 8pm, guests take their seats for the Rising Star Performing Arts Competition and the presentation of the Howie Awards. Eight talented, local finalists will vie for the audience vote for the $5,000 Rising Star award! In between dazzling performances, the 2025 Howie Awards will be presented to an Outstanding Artist, Arts Educator, and Community Supporter of the Arts in recognition of their contributions to the arts community in Howard County. And, two special awards will recognize honorees for their service in the arts.

Kristi Smith, President of the Maryland Region for Howard Hughes, will act as Honorary Chair for the evening. Terry N. Eberhart, musician and Music Coordinator for Howard County Public School System, will return as the event Emcee.

As the Arts Council’s main source of individual and corporate funding, the Celebration helps to support our grants and education programs for children and adults throughout the year. The Celebration is also an important showcase for local performing and visual artists.