Road Trip: Instagram-Worthy Blossoms That Will Get You Psyched For Spring (And Where To See Them In Person)
Photo credit: Lauren E. Merrill Photography
Spring is almost sprung and we know you’re itching to shake off that winter coat, breathe in some fresh air and show off your warmer weather vibes on social media. Start the season off right by planning a weekend getaway to beautiful Howard County, the self-described “green in between” Baltimore and D.C., as seen in these photos that will have you fawning over flora – no filter needed.
March
Spring Walk and Photo Expo: 50,000 Daffodils in Bloom
Photo credit: Whipps Garden Cemetery
Celebrating the city’s 50th birthday, volunteers in Columbia planted 50,000 daffodils in five different varieties citywide. A true town effort, planting locations were recommended by Columbia residents, community groups and businesses, and include the parks and recreation department, community college and residential cul-de-sacs. Led by principal of Sustainable Growth, LLC and local environmentalist, Ned Tillman, a Spring Walk will take groups through downtown Columbia in a photo expo and observance of the daffodils on March 26. Can’t make the walk? These daf’s will be on display and ready for their close-up from late March through mid-April.
April
Photo credit: Visit Howard County
Harnessing the beauty of nature for a good cause, Blossoms of Hope aims to plant Kwanzan cherry blossom trees across the county as a sign of solidarity for individuals and families coping with cancer. With 1,800 (and counting) planted blossoms, the Howard County Cherry Tree Project lets you sponsor a tree in one of nearly 50 scenic sites, donating a portion of your purchase to the cancer research center at Howard County General Hospital. Stop by a slew of family-friendly “Cherrybration” events through mid-June, including a Healing Hands exhibit of original artwork and writings, a pink champagne ladies’ luncheon and fashion show and a 5K challenge through the hills of Old Ellicott City. Pay a visit to these charitable cherries when they hit their peak in April.
May
Photo credit: WeJustClicked Photography Co
A community oasis since 1959, the Brighton Dam’s Azalea Garden boasts more than 22,000 azalea bushes in the five acres of hardwood forest. On view alongside the azaleas are Kousa dogwood trees and Maryland’s state champion fringe tree, the Chionanthus virginicus – and you don’t have to be able to pronounce it to appreciate it. See nature come to life in Technicolor bursts of red, purple and orange, while basking in the sunshine at the updated gazebo. Take your mom along and make it a memorable Mother’s Day – the garden is in full bloom in mid-May.
Check out the @visithocomd Instagram and be sure to include #ExploreHoCoMD when sharing your own pics. Make the most of your springtime sabbatical by checking into a local hotel or B&B and check out visithowardcounty.com for more event information.
This is a paid partnership between Visit Howard County and Philadelphia Magazine
