Westminster hosts four major community events in April and May

Westminster is set to welcome thousands of visitors this spring as four major events bring energy and economic opportunity to Carroll County’s largest city in April and May.

From the whimsical marshmallow creations of the PEEPshow to the fine vintages of the Westminster Wine Stroll, the vibrant sounds and colors of the Flower & Jazz Festival, and the fast-paced competition of Pickle in the Park, these events could make Westminster a hub of activity in the coming months.

“Every time we hold a downtown event, we draw thousands of visitors to the city—sometimes over 10,000,” said Westminster Mayor Dr. Mona Becker. “We get a chance to showcase everything our Main Street area has to offer. The economic impact to the community is huge. We have visitors stay in our beautiful city all day, shop in our stores, and eat in our restaurants.”

Carroll County Chamber of Commerce President Mike McMullin underscored the importance of these events for local businesses. “Large community events like these bring people to the wonderful Carroll County Main Streets to explore and discover all the small local businesses and restaurants that we have to offer,” he said. “Shopping local like this rewards people with an experience that online shopping can't compete with.”

The festivities begin in April with an event that draws crowds to the TownMall of Westminster, setting the stage for a season of community engagement.

PEEPshow Returns for Its 18th Year

The Carroll County Arts Council’s 18th Annual PEEPshow kicks off on April 11 and runs through April 21 at the former Sears space in the TownMall of Westminster. This unique community event, featuring intricate artistic displays made from PEEPS® marshmallow candies, has grown significantly since its 2008 debut.

“Every year since then, the number of entries has grown, along with the number of folks who come through to view the entries for free and vote for their favorites,” said Gwen Asbury, Special Events & Volunteer Coordinator with the Carroll County Arts Council.

The 2024 PEEPshow raised more than $80,000 for the arts council, reinforcing its status as both a creative showcase and a key fundraiser for Arts Council programs.

The event also adds to Westminster’s reputation as a destination for pop culture and creativity. Writer Joseph Peterson captured that spirit in a Maryland Road Trips article last year, calling Westminster “a teeming paradise for geek culture” after visiting the PEEPshow and other businesses in the mall and on Main Street.

Westminster Wine Stroll to Attract Hundreds Downtown

Wine, music and art lovers get their day in Downtown Westminster on Saturday, April 26, 2025, from 12-4 PM with the Westminster Wine Stroll. The event offers a chance to sample local wines, enjoy live music, and browse artisan vendors.

Early VIP Ticket Holders can access beginning at 11:00am. General Admission Ticket Holders can access beginning at 12:00pm.

Flower & Jazz Festival: A Mother’s Day Weekend Tradition

On Saturday, May 10, 2025, from 10 AM-4 PM, Westminster’s Flower & Jazz Festival will take over Main Street, drawing thousands of visitors for a day of shopping, music, and family-friendly entertainment.

A longstanding local tradition, the festival features artisan and craft vendors, nursery and flower vendors, and a variety of food stands. Live music will run on three stages.

“When we do an event, it’s all hands on board at the city,” says Becker. “All departments help out where needed. And the Streets Department really does a phenomenal job of keeping the city clean. I never see an overflowing trash can and two hours after an event you would never know we had 10,000 people on Main Street.”

Pickle in the Park Brings Competitive Edge to Westminster

The fastest-growing sport in America takes center stage at Westminster City Park on May 31 & June 1, 2025, with the Pickle in the Park Tournament. This double-elimination tournament will feature:

• May 31: Women’s and Men’s Doubles

• June 1: Mixed Doubles

Registration is $50 for the first event, $10 for a second event, with competitors grouped by skill level and age. The event, which also includes giveaways, medals, and refreshments, is expected to draw a mix of local and regional players.

“I‘m looking forward to Pickle in the Park. This is a new addition this year, along with the Italian Festival in July,” says Becker.