News
The MERRI-est Time of the Year Has Arrived
As the air turns crisp and the days grow shorter, Merriweather District transforms into a winter wonderland, filled with the warmth of holiday cheer and the sparkle of twinkling lights.
Let’s celebrate the spirit of the season, share experiences and make new memories. From holiday gatherings at the restaurants to brisk chill and laughter at the ice rink, experience the enchantment of Downtown Columbia.
- Free parking during the whole holiday season
- See all holiday events on our calendar
- Buy single-use ice rink tickets or your season pass online today
Color Burst Park Ice Rink: Now Open
Oh, what fun it is to skate! The Color Burst Ice Rink at Merriweather District is back! Enjoy music, pop-up food and beverage, and plenty of celebrations and themed events throughout the season (including Chanukah On Ice, Sunday, December 10th).
Where: Color Burst Ice Rink at Color Burst Park
Tickets: Single-use tickets and season passes are available for purchase in advance.
Cost: $12 + tax and reservation fee ($3 skate rentals and $5 children’s skate aids available)
Hours + Offers:
- Monday – Thursday // 4PM – 9PM
- Friday // 4PM – 10PM
- Saturday // 12PM – 10PM
- Sunday // 12PM – 8PM
SPECIAL EVENTS:
MONDAYS // Military, First Responders and Teachers skate for 50% off. Use code: THANKYOU50
TUESDAYS // Cheap Skate Tuesdays. Everyone skates for $10. No code necessary.
WEDNESDAYS // School Night. Howard County students skate for $10. No code necessary.
THURSDAYS // Theme Nights with Live DJ entertainment
- January 4: Arctic Disco Party
- January 11: 90’s Party
- January 18: Hip Hop Party
- January 25: Rock and Roll Party
Free parking is available at Symphony Woods Garage: 6275 Mango Tree Road, Columbia, MD 21044
Interested in renting the ice rink for a private event? Please contact #ob#pbybeohefgcnex#at#vprevaxriragf.pbz#ob#.
MERRI + Bright Holiday Market: December 1-3
Have yourself a MERRI little holiday season with a visit to Merriweather District’s Annual Holiday Market opening December 1st. Support unique small businesses as you venture through a variety of holiday pop-ups from regional vendors.
When:
- Friday, December 1 // 5:30pm – 8:30pm
- Saturday, December 2 // 1pm – 8pm
- Sunday, December 3 // 1pm – 5pm
Where: Color Burst Park in Merriweather District
Cost: FREE
RSVP today
Merriweather Symphony of Lights
Enjoy larger-than-life light displays at the dazzling Symphony of Lights at nearby Merriweather Post Pavilion. This popular Howard County tradition has been in effect for over 25 years. Drive through or stroll your way through the light creations to experience the effect of more than 300,000 holiday light bulbs.
When: Nov 23, 2023 – Jan 1, 2024
- Weekdays: 6:00pm – 10:00pm
- Weekends: 5:00pm – 10:00pm
- Thursdays: Military Nights // Pay at the entrance to receive $10 off with valid military ID
- Walk-through days: November 26, December 5, 7, 12, 31
- Drive-through is closed on these select dates: November 26-29, December 4-5, 7, 11-12, 31
Where: Merriweather Post Pavilion, 10475 Little Patuxent Parkway, Columbia, Maryland 21044
Cost:
- $25 per vehicle for drive-through access
- Pricing varies on walk-through nights. Children under 3 are always free.
Parking: Merriweather Post Pavilion visitors can park for FREE at Merriweather District.
Top off your night with dessert. Stop by one of 20+ Merriweather District restaurants after you see the lights.
Merri Dining
Make your reservations today for a memorable gathering in Downtown Columbia. With more than 20 restaurants located at Merriweather District and lots of gathering spaces, you’re guaranteed to host a memorable gathering wherever you land.
- Try the newest in local cuisine at The Blackwall Barn & Lodge
- Get cozy at Busboys & Poets and find the perfect holiday reads
- Celebrate with something spicy at Dok Khao Thai Eatery
- Savor some of the best Chinese food you’ve ever had at Peter Chang
- Find the perfect table at Cured 18th and 21st for holiday libations and savory dishes
Holiday specials and seasonal offerings will be available at most restaurants. Remember to ask about hosting your private party at your favorite space.
Joy to the District
Come together for a bold and bright celebration at our annual tree lighting and the opening of our ice rink! We’re bringing the cheer to kick off the most wonderful time of the year.
Annual Tree Lighting
When: November 17 // 5:30pm – 8:30pm
Where: Color Burst Park in Merriweather District
Cost: FREE
Ice rink tickets sold separately
There’s More Merri in Downtown Columbia
Learn more about upcoming events at Merriweather District. While you’re here, you can park for free and easily access all that Downtown Columbia has to offer. From Symphony of Lights to the Color Burst Park Ice Rink, there’s plenty for families and friends to enjoy.