Celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay made an appearance in Ellicott City earlier this week as part of a week-long "mystery event" taking place on Main Street.

Last week, the Howard County Government Facebook page posted an update stating that residents should expect road and parking lot closures for the week of February 21 through February 28. This sparked upset reactions from many, but frustration quickly melted into excitement as clues began to surface as to what the top-secret mystery event may be.

The first couple of clues come from Lot D, off of Old Columbia Pike, where about 20 people are seen under two large black tents, a typical set-up for talent and production on shoots. The other clue comes from the Howard County Department of Police Traffic Enforcement Section and their online permit database, where it is confirmed that two permits have been issued and labeled as "TV shoot."

Now, another clue surfaces as Gordon Ramsay made an appearance outside of Little Market Cafe where he addressed a crowd of over 200 residents. He spoke for about 10 minutes as crews set up, cameras filmed, and a drone buzzed over the crowd. Posts also show that later that day "Hell on Wheels" trucks, which are used in Ramsay's show 24 Hours to Hell and Back, were seen in Ellicott City. These clues would make it seem that a local restaurant may be getting "saved,"' however, there's evidence that this project may consist of even more than that.

Courtesy of Baltimore Sun

Aside from the influx of celebrities, there has also been a surge in volunteers cleaning up the area. Emails were sent out by Howard EcoWorks last week asking for volunteer help for the "Ellicott City Extreme Makeover." This initiative includes washing windows, tending to vegetation, and street sweeping. Volunteers were also notified to have all cellphones turned off during the cleaning time. Executive Director of Howard EcoWorks, Lory Lilly, confirmed that the Main Street cleanup is only one of the multiple projects that are taking place this week.  

While the event has yet to be confirmed by any city officials, residents are speculating. My guess is that we are in for a local restaurant to get featured on 24 Hours to Hell and Back unless we were nominated and selected for an HGTV town makeover. However, I don't think we would see the "Hell on Wheels" trucks if that were the case. Either way, Ellicott City is in for a treat that is sure to bring positive outcomes. 

What do you think is happening in Ellicott City? Let us know in the comments!