Madison County Covered Bridge Festival Offers a Unique Blend of History, Crafts, and Fun October 12-13

The Madison County Covered Bridge Festival has been a cherished annual tradition since its inception in 1970, inspired by the enthusiasm of local residents. On October 12-13, 2024, the historic Winterset courthouse square will transform into a bustling hub of celebration, attracting thousands of visitors. The festival features a rich mix of culture and community, with over 140 food, arts, and crafts vendors, live music, traditional demonstrations, and plenty of activities for children, ensuring there's something for everyone to enjoy.

Guided Tours of Madison County̢۪s Covered BridgesIf you're looking to dive deep into the rich history of Madison County̢۪s iconic covered bridges, the Winterset Rotary Club offers guided bus tours on both Saturday and Sunday during the festival. These two-hour tours, priced at $15 per person, take visitors to three renowned bridges: Roseman, Hogback, and Cutler-Donahoe, as well as the historic North River Schoolhouse. A knowledgeable guide brings the journey to life with engaging stories and fascinating history, making this a must-do experience. Tickets are available for purchase at the Rotary booth on 1st Avenue, and the tours conveniently depart from 1st Avenue and Washington Street, near the George Stout public art project.

Sunday̢۪s Classic Car Show and ParadeSunday brings special excitement for car enthusiasts with the Central Iowa Auto Club's car show, located around Winterset Elementary School. Feast your eyes on an impressive lineup of classic cars, sure to thrill any automotive lover. As the weekend comes to a close, the festival parade, scheduled for 3 p.m. on Sunday, adds a festive and community-driven finale to the celebration.

A Festival Full of Unforgettable MomentsWhether you̢۪re captivated by the historical bridges, fascinated by reenactments, or simply here to enjoy the charm of an autumn weekend, the Madison County Covered Bridge Festival promises a memorable and timeless experience for all who attend.

8:30 AM – Antique Tractor RideContinue the tractor ride adventure from Friday with another scenic route through the rolling hills and valleys of Madison County. The $25 entry fee remains the same for day two.Contact: Curtis Saveraid at 515-210-7806

8:30 AM – Horseshoe TournamentThink you’ve got what it takes to win the annual Horseshoe Tournament? Head to the Madison County Fairgrounds for this friendly competition. Registration and warm-up begin at 8:30 AM, and the tournament kicks off at 10 AM. Entry fee is $10, and both sanctioned and unsanctioned players are welcome.Contact: Kris Jordan at 515-669-3085

9:00 AM – Covered Bridge 5K Walk/RunRunners and walkers alike can take part in the Covered Bridge 5K, a fun way to enjoy the scenic beauty of Winterset. The race begins at the Cutler-Donahoe Covered Bridge in Winterset City Park, with a children's event starting at 8:45 AM, followed by the main event at 9 AM. Sponsored by the Winterset Rotary Club.

9:00 AM – 5:00 PM – Festival Fun on the SquareThe heart of the festival is the Madison County Courthouse Square, where you can browse arts and crafts vendors, sample delicious food, and enjoy live music throughout the day. Admission is just $3 per person, or two for $5, and children under 11 get in free.

Festival highlights include:

10:00 AM – Junior Spelling BeeWatch young spellers take the stage in the Junior Spelling Bee, held on the South Courthouse Steps (or indoors at the First United Methodist Church in case of rain).

10:00 AM – 3:00 PM – Covered Bridge School Bus ToursExperience Madison County’s iconic covered bridges with a guided bus tour, hosted by the Winterset Rotary Club. Tickets are $15 and can be purchased at the Rotary ticket booth.

10:00 AM – 4:00 PM – Passport to the PastStep back in time at the Madison County Historical Complex, where you’ll find blacksmith demonstrations, horse-drawn wagon rides, and tours of the historic Bevington mansion. Enjoy a stroll through history with museum exhibits and pick up some nostalgic treats at the Field Mercantile.

4:00 PM – Civil War SkirmishHistory buffs won’t want to miss the Civil War Skirmish on the north lawn of the Madison County Historical Complex. Watch as reenactors bring the past to life in this thrilling historical event.

5:00-8:30 PM – WHS Alumni All-Class ReunionIf you’re a Winterset High School alum, don’t miss the All-Class Reunion at the Jackson Building, located at the Madison County Fairgrounds. Reconnect with old friends and relive fond memories!

6:45 PM – S’mores and PopcornCap off the day with free s’mores and popcorn at the Madison County Historical Complex. Bring a lawn chair and relax under the stars as you enjoy this cozy, community tradition.

8:00 AM – 12:00 PM – Madison County Car Show RegistrationCalling all car enthusiasts! Register your ride for the Madison County Car Show, hosted by the Central Iowa Auto Club. Judging begins at 1:30 PM, and awards will be presented at 3:00 PM.

9:00 AM – 5:00 PM – Festival Continues on the SquareThe festival fun continues with another full day of arts and crafts, live entertainment, and tasty eats on the Madison County Courthouse Square. Don’t miss out on your chance to explore more of what the festival has to offer!

10:00 AM – 12:00 PM – Covered Bridge School Bus Tours & Passport to the PastTake another ride through history with the Covered Bridge School Bus Tours, or enjoy more of the Passport to the Past activities at the Madison County Historical Complex.

3:00 PM – Covered Bridge Festival ParadeThe grand finale of the festival is the Covered Bridge Festival Parade! The parade route winds through Winterset, starting at the high school and passing through the downtown area. Arrive early to grab a good spot and enjoy this celebratory event.

With so much to see and do, the 2024 Madison County Covered Bridge Festival is the perfect way to spend a fall weekend. Mark your calendars, gather your family and friends, and come experience the magic of Madison County!