The last week in August marked the beginning of the school year for Howard County students — and the end of summer vacations. Fortunately, we’re heading into a three-day weekend, and there are plenty of activities to do in the county to squeeze just a little more out of summer.

From a Caribbean wine festival to a Ravens paint party, here are some of the activities in the county for the week ending Sept. 4.

Open mic night

8 p.m. Thursday

Head to Busboys and Poets in Columbia, order a summer drink and enjoy a poetry open mic night. Eric “E-Baby” Smith, who has been writing poetry professionally since 1998, is hosting the two-hour event. Whether you’re participating or just attending, the evening will be sure to entertain.

Tickets are required and are $7.61. Ticket sales end before the event.

Three nights of Mitski concerts

8 p.m. Friday, Saturday and Sunday

From Friday until Sunday, the singer-songwriter Mitski, is performing at Merriweather Post Pavilion as part of her fall tour. You can find tickets here.

Mitski’s most recent album, “The Land Is Inhospitable and So Are We,” came out in 2023. It features 11 songs including “My Love Mine All Mine,” which gained viral popularity on TikTok.

Sierra Ferrell is opening for Mitski. Gates open at 6:30 p.m., with the show starting at 8 p.m.

Caribbean wine festival

1-8 p.m. Saturday

Dive right into Caribbean culture on Saturday with cuisine from jerk chicken to plantains, then dance to the rhythms of reggae, dancehall, afro beats and soca music at the 12th annual Caribbean wine festival.

The event is at the Howard County Fairgrounds, where festival goers can see DJs, enjoy live music, try Caribbean wine and food and peruse vendors that showcase items such as jewelry and art.

Adult tickets are available starting from $28.52. There’s a cheaper price for children 12-17, and kids under 11 can attend for free. Ticket sales end before the event.

Back to the ’80s

8 p.m. Saturday

Step back in time and sing along to the sounds of the ‘80s with the Annapolis-based band Weird Science. The five-member band is performing at The Collective Encore in Columbia, and is sure to make the evening nostalgic by playing hits from stars like Michael Jackson, Prince, Journey and Bon Jovi.

Doors open at 7 p.m. and the show starts at 8 p.m. Tickets are on sale for $20.49, and sales end before the show.

Boog Powell signing

12 p.m. Sunday

Calling Orioles fans! The legendary Boog Powell, who played for the Orioles from 1961 to 1974, will be at the Dugout Zone in Ellicott City to sign memorabilia, take photos and chat with his fans.

The event will be an hour and a half and tickets, ranging in price depending on what item attendees want signed, are on sale until the start of the event.

Labor Day celebration

12 p.m. Monday

Head to The Chrysalis at Merriweather Park to listen to local bands in celebration of Labor Day. Patuxent Jazz Band, Maryland Community Band, and the High and Wides will bring the music and energy. Concertgoers just need to bring a blanket or lawn chair because all seating will be on the lawn.

The event will feature food trucks, so come hungry!

Tickets are free, and registration is open until the start of the event.

Ravens paint party

6 p.m. Wednesday

Get ready for football season with a Ravens paint party at Daniels Restaurant in Elkridge. Anyone is welcome — with any painting skill level — to learn how to make one of three crafts, or to make your own design. Depending on your craft selection, instructors will provide guidance and supplies necessary to paint a pre-drawn canvas or sign, or paint and assemble a 3D wooden sign.

Check-in begins at 5:30 p.m. and instruction begins at 6 p.m. Tickets are available starting at $31.72. Tickets will not be sold at the door, so be sure to buy tickets beforehand.