There’s an old Irish blessing: As you slide down the banister of life, may the splinters all point the other way.

That’s the energy we’re bringing to this week. Fill these last days of winter with plenty of fun and spring will be here faster than you think.

Here are seven things to do in Howard County from March 5 through March 11.

‘Big Bang Baby’ exhibit

9 a.m.-9 p.m. Thursday

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Artist Lusmerlin Lantigua’s new solo exhibit opens this week in the Rouse Company Foundation Gallery at Howard Community College. Each vibrant piece touches on themes of identity, the artist’s love of physics and her experience as an immigrant woman. The show runs through March 16.

Irish dinner and whiskey pairing

6-8 p.m. Thursday

You don’t need to find the end of the rainbow to enjoy a St. Patrick’s Day-inspired feast. Uno Pizzeria & Grill in Ellicott City is serving a chef-curated menu with Irish fare. Admission is $65.

Mid-Maryland Ultra 50k and Relay

8 a.m. Saturday

How many miles is a 50K? It’s 31 miles, nearly 5 longer than a marathon. So you know these runners are going to need all the encouragement they can get. Offer them a high-five, ring a cowbell or make a funny poster to wave from the sidelines. It’s the community support that is sure to lift their spirits — and yours.

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Farmers market spring preview

9 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday

If you’re over the snow, head to Clarksville Commons for an early taste of spring. Shoppers can select from local produce, meats, eggs, sweet and savory baked goods, flowers, prepared food and handmade crafts. Everything sold at the market is produced in the Chesapeake region.

Still life sketching class

9:30-11:30 a.m. Saturday

Local artists Kathy Tillman and Martha Lohaus are hosting a sketching session at the Howard County Conservancy. Try your hand at drawing arrangements of skulls, seed pods, turtle shells, tree bark, greens and fruit. Admission is $5 per person to cover supplies. Ages 10 and older are welcome.

Sweetheart Dance

5:30-7:30 p.m. Saturday

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Howard County Recreation and Parks is hosting a family dance featuring a DJ, refreshments, crafts, a souvenir photo and a sweet treat. Tickets are $60 and cover participation for one adult and child. A discounted rate of $35 is offered for each additional child.

Social connection panel discussion

6-8 p.m. Wednesday

Loneliness is a problem, even in a community designed like Columbia. This panel discussion hosted by the Columbia Association touches on the realities of social isolation, its impact on well-being, and what we can do to strengthen connection.