July 2026

The Tourism

Business Bulletin

A Note

from Jodi

July marks the height of America 250 celebrations in Harford County! Throughout the month, communities across the county will come together for parades, full days of Fourth of July festivities, fireworks, and events that honor both our nation's and county's rich history.

The excitement continues during the third week of July with the annual Harford County Farm Fair at the County Fairgrounds. From livestock exhibits and agricultural showcases to evening entertainment including tractor pulls, a rodeo, tuff trucks, and live music; the Farm Fair is a beloved summer tradition that celebrates our agricultural roots and rural heritage.

Be sure to visit HelloHarford.com for event details and, if you haven't already, check out the Harford County Celebration Trail on the Let's Rallie app. With 75 historic sites to explore, it's a fun and interactive way to discover the people, places, and events that helped shape our community and our nation.

See you soon!

Send me an email at jmarschhauser@harfordcountymd.gov

443.981.9304

Jodi Marschhauser

Collaboration Corner

Cross Collaboration Opportunities

One of the best ways to expand your reach is by partnering with other organizations and businesses. We encourage stakeholders to explore opportunities for cross-promotion that can help attract new audiences while strengthening Harford County's tourism offerings. Below are some opportunities to consider.

Cultural Consortium

The Historical Society of Harford County has been leading the Cultural Consortium of Harford County, bringing together museums, historical organizations, and cultural institutions to collaborate, share ideas, discuss best practices, and strengthen the county's cultural and heritage offerings.

This growing partnership creates opportunities for organizations with similar missions to learn from one another, explore new initiatives, and work collectively to enhance the visitor experience. Hello Harford has been pleased to participate in these discussions and is excited to support this valuable effort to celebrate, preserve, and promote Harford County's rich history and culture. To learn more contact directorhshc@harfordhistory.org

Family Entertainment Roundtable

Stephanie and John, owners of Pirates Cove Family Fun Center and Jurassic Golf, are launching the Stephanie and John, owners of Pirates Cove Family Fun Center and Jurassic Golf, are launching the Family Entertainment Roundtable, a new networking and collaboration group for all age entertainment attractions including mini golf courses, axe throwing centers, trampoline parks, ninja gyms, inflatables, and other family-focused venues. The group will provide an opportunity to share ideas, discuss industry trends and challenges, and explore ways to collectively attract more visitors and grow business.

The first meeting will be planned for July. If you are interested in participating, please contact Stephanie at jurassicgolf842@comcast.net for additional details.

Ramble Festival Partnership Opportunity

The Ramble Festival is seeking local businesses to participate in a promotional giveaway campaign, creating a win-win opportunity for shared exposure and audience engagement. Learn more about becoming a participating partner at https://www.ramblefestival.com/local-business-partnerships

Darlington Apple Festival Nonprofit Outreach

The Darlington Apple Festival is inviting local nonprofit organizations to host an information table during this year's festival. This is a great opportunity to connect with thousands of attendees and raise awareness for your mission. For details, availability, and pricing, please contact Stephanie at s.mckaughan@gmail.com

Pro-tip of the Month

Give Your Website an SEO Checkup

Want to help more visitors find your business online? Start by reviewing your website for industry-specific keywords that travelers are likely searching for. Make sure relevant terms are naturally incorporated into your page titles, headings, body copy, image descriptions, and page URLs.

For example, a brewery may want to include phrases like "Maryland craft brewery," while a farm market could use terms such as "pick-your-own produce" or "Maryland agritourism."

A word of caution: avoid keyword stuffing. Repeating the same phrases excessively can actually hurt your search rankings. Instead, focus on creating helpful, informative content that uses a variety of related keywords naturally throughout your site.

Remember, your website should speak both to your visitors and to search engines. The easier it is for Google to understand what you offer, the easier it is for potential customers to find you.

Venue Spotlight

Crabby Axe Throwing

This month's Venue Spotlight shines on Crabby Axe Throwing in Bel Air, Harford County's premier axe-throwing destination. Recently celebrating a remodel and the addition of Axel's Bar, the venue now offers even more ways for guests to relax, socialize, and have fun.

Whether you're planning a date night, family outing, team-building event, or gathering with friends, Crabby Axe Throwing delivers a unique experience that's equal parts entertainment and friendly competition. Guests can test their skills on the throwing lanes while enjoying a selection of beverages and snacks from the new bar area.

Congratulations to the Crabby Axe team on this exciting new chapter. Be sure to check out their website to learn more and plan your next "kick axe" adventure!

Does your business have an update? Send us an email!

Future Focus

Tourism Grants & Partnership Opportunties

Hello Harford is proud to announce the FY27 Tourism Grant recipients. This year, more than $1 million in funding has been awarded to 34 tourism-related nonprofits, municipalities, venues, and event organizers that help attract visitors and enhance Harford County's visitor economy.

Over the coming weeks, the Hello Harford team will be reaching out to each recipient to discuss marketing plans, share available resources, and identify opportunities for collaboration. Our goal is to serve as an extension of your marketing efforts, helping maximize exposure, increase visitation, and ensure the success of the programs and events supported through these grants. Together, we can continue showcasing all that Harford County has to offer.

See Press Release Here

Reminder: Sign Up for Greater Exposure

Keep submitting your events and new tourism related business openings through our portal! Our events calendar is a key promotional tool across Hello Harford marketing efforts, media opportunities, hotel partnerships, and advertising campaigns. Since our website serves as the call to action for much of our advertising, having your events and businesses listed helps maximize visibility and exposure for your business and events.

July Calendar of Events

Fun Fact

Harford County is a pet-friendly destination! Our website features more than 80 pet-friendly locations, including 17 hotels where furry companions are welcome. If your business welcomes pets and isn't yet listed, let us know so we can help visitors discover you and enjoy Harford County with their favorite travel buddies.