28th annual Celebration of the Arts
October 25, 2025, 6-10pmÂ
Peter and Elizabeth Horowitz Visual & Performing Arts CenterÂ
Howard Community CollegeÂ
Join us at 6pm for an unforgettable evening that begins with a 2-hour reception where guests can bid on artwork during the Art Auction and enjoy gourmet creations from some of Howard County’s top culinary artists.
At 8 pm, the spotlight turns to the Rising Star Competition, showcasing the county’s most promising emerging talent. The evening will also include the presentation of the Howie Awards, honoring individuals who create, teach, and support the arts in our community. As the night draws to a close, you’ll help decide the next Rising Star, who will receive a $5,000 cash prize!
Kristi Smith, President of the Maryland Region for Howard Hughes, will serve as Honorary Chair, and Terry N. Eberhardt will reprise his role as Event Emcee.
$100 ticket includes reception and live performance in the Smith Theatre. $50 ticket includes the reception and simulcast viewing in the Studio Theatre. Reserve your seats at hocoarts.org/celebration or call (410)313-2787.
Interested in becoming a sponsor or volunteer? Visit the website or contact us directly to get involved. Proceeds support the Howard County Arts Council’s grant and arts education initiatives.
Time is running out to submit Howie Award nominations (due April 7) and apply for the Rising Star Performing Arts Competition (due May 1).
The Howie Awards honor those who contribute to the arts in our community in the categories of Outstanding Artist, Outstanding Arts Educator, and Outstanding Community Supporter of the Arts (business or individual).
The Rising Star Performing Arts Competition will feature up to 10 local finalists competing for a $5,000 prize. This year’s Howie honorees and Rising Star finalists will be featured at the Celebration of the Arts 2025 gala held on Saturday, October 25, 6-10pm at the Horowitz Visual & Performing Arts Center, Howard Community College.
CONGRATULATIONS ANGELINA LIM!
27th ANNUAL CELEBRATION OF THE ARTSÂ
The 2024 Celebration of the Arts was a resounding success! Guests savored food and drinks from local restaurants, participated in the Art Auction by bidding on stunning works by talented local artists, and were captivated by the remarkable performances at the Rising Star Performing Arts Competition.
As the performances wrapped up in the Smith Theatre, the audience cast their votes and selected flautist Angelina Lim as the 2024 Rising Star for her performance of “Caprice No. 24” in A minor by NiccolĂł Paganini.
Other highlights of the evening included guest performances by Howard County Poet Laureate Truth Thomas, the American Jow Ga Lion Dance Team, Fidgety Feet, Columbia Jazz Band, Bruce Casteel and the presentation of the Howie Awards, honoring individuals whose contributions help make our community such a wonderful place for the arts. This year’s Howie honorees were Fahimeh Vahdat, Outstanding Artist; Rebecca Clark, Outstanding Arts Educator; and Holly Gudelsky Stone, Outstanding Community Supporter of the Arts. A special Legacy in the Arts Award was presented to Deborah White-Bondhus.
A heartfelt THANK YOU to our Celebration Committee and volunteers—this event wouldn’t have been possible without your incredible efforts! We also extend our special gratitude to our generous sponsors and culinary and beverage sponsors. Your support means the world to us—THANK YOU!