On Saturday, October 12th and Sunday, October 13th, the annual Madison County Covered Bridge Festival will take place in Winterset, Iowa. The home of six historic covered bridges (some over 140 years old) which inspired a best-selling novel, award-winning Hollywood movie, and Tony Award®-winning Broadway musical, Madison County is preparing to welcome tens of thousands of visitors who enjoy family and historical activities, arts, crafts and food vendors, and exciting, live entertainment.
Over 140 vendors (in addition to brick-and-mortar businesses) will be featured around the Winterset Courthouse Square, offering an array of vintage finds, fine art, handmade crafts, delicious food and beverages, and repurposed treasures. Continual live music and entertainment will be presented on a stage and feature popular regional acts such as The Bird Hunters, Emma Butterworth, Maxwell Aden, Liv McNair, the Abe Miller Band, Chris Powell, the Benge Family, among others. Family-friendly activities include disc golf, a visit from Blank Park Zoo, and a ticketed area with inflatables. There will also be demonstrations, such as chainsaw carving, spinning wool, and crosscut saws. Many beloved activities of the festival include a classic car show, antique tractor ride, covered bridge tours, pancake breakfast, 5K run/walk, spelling bee, farmers market, a parade, and re-enacted Civil War battle at the Madison County Historical Complex.
Admission is $3 per person or 2 admissions for $5, and free for children under 11. Admission is paid at the festival gates which are located around the Winterset Courthouse Square. Free street parking and shuttle service is available. Only service animals are allowed within festival grounds. More information is available at exploremadisoncounty.com.
