October 2025

The Tourism

Business Bulletin

A Note

from Jodi

Fall is here, and with it comes one of the busiest and most exciting seasons for Harford County! Our calendar is packed with incredible events that showcase the very best of our community – from signature festivals to family-friendly activities that draw visitors from near and far.

This October, we’re especially looking forward to Maryland Economic Development Week, when we will take time to celebrate and honor YOU, the businesses and partners who help make Harford County tourism thrive. Follow our Economic Development social sites to see more. We can’t wait to share your stories. Facebook LinkedIn

Thank you for being such an important part of our efforts. Together, we are building momentum, creating experiences, and inviting the world to say “Hello, Harford!”

See you soon!

Send me an email at jmarschhauser@harfordcountymd.gov

443.981.9304

Jodi Marschhauser

Pro-tip of the Month

Last month, we shared the importance of keeping your Google Business listing up to date. This month, we’re highlighting another powerful tool — Tripadvisor. Every month, over 455 million people visit Tripadvisor to plan and book their trips. To catch their attention and win their business, claim and verify your listing today. Market your hotel on Tripadvisor for free in 7 steps

Venue Spotlight

Swan Harbor

Swan Harbor Farm is one of Harford County’s gems, offering a beautiful waterfront setting for private events, meetings, and holiday gatherings. As the season approaches, it’s a great reminder to consider local venues like Swan Harbor Farm for upcoming holiday parties or team meetings -creating opportunities for local caterers, hotels, and other businesses to share in the benefit. Contact Terri Glenn to learn more at info@swanharborfarm.org

Does your business have an update to share for a future edition? Send us an email!

Collaboration Corner

Strong partnerships help tourism grow, and we’re here to help make those connections! Many of our local tourism nonprofits are looking for sponsors to support events, programs, and initiatives that bring visitors to Harford County.

Sponsoring an event is a win-win: it helps organizations deliver amazing experiences for visitors and puts your business in front of new audiences. If you’re interested in learning about upcoming sponsorship opportunities, reach out to us and we’d be happy to connect you.

Reminder: Sign Up for Greater Exposure

Did you know? We provide local hotels with a monthly calendar of events to use as a concierge tool; we also give hotels these “happy you are here” business cards for their guests. The cards have a QR code that brings visitors to the Hello Harford website promoting all the attractions, restaurants, and events in the county. If you’re not listed on our website or calendar, sign up today to help new customers find you!

Submit Your Business

Future Focus

Work is underway on a brand new Hello Harford Tourism Welcome Center on Main Street in Bel Air This space will serve as a hub for visitors, offering them the tools and resources they need to discover everything Harford has to offer — from attractions and events to dining and lodging. Stay tuned!

Fun Fact

In 2024, total visitor spending in Harford County grew by 3.8%, a sign of a strong and booming tourism economy. Our food and beverage sector led the way with an impressive 7.1% growth, reflecting the incredible work of our local restaurants, brewers, and culinary businesses. A huge thank-you to the talented restaurateurs and food and beverage partners who make Harford County a delicious destination!

*Source-Tourism Economics