The Parke County Covered Bridge Festival is the larges festival in the state of Indiana. Despite growing up in Indy, I had never heard about this famous festival. It wasn’t until my Russian and I got a lake house if Parke County that we learned about the event.
It has now become a tradition to attended the festival, which serves as a fun kickoff to the fall season. Below is a complete guide to the Parke Country Covered Bridge Festival so you can plan your visit. Perhaps it will become a new tradition with your friends and family!
WHAT IS IT
The Parke County Covered Bridge Festival celebrates Indiana’s historic covered bridges. There are 31 of these architectural treasures in Parke County, making it the covered bridge capital of the world. The festival has been attracting thousands of visitors since 1957. Enjoy local vendors, crafts, antiques, food and music. Think State Fair meets antiques road show plus 31 covered bridges!
WHERE IS IT
Parke County is located just 60 miles west of Indianapolis. The festitval itself takes place in multiple locations, with the main events happening in the towns of Rockville, Bridgeton and Mansfield. Whether you’re from the city or a small town, this is a fun filled event that all will enjoy!
WHEN IS IT
The annual Covered Bridge Festival always begins the 2nd Friday in October and runs for 10 days. Live performances and activities take place throughout the 10 days and vendors are open each day (rain or shine!) from 9am-6pm throughout the festival.
WHAT TO SEE & DO
Downtown:
The festival’s main events take place in the town squares of Rockville, Bridgeton and Mansfield. At each location you’ll find several tents featuring a variety of vendors selling everything from jewelry and Christmas décor to leather goods, jams, furs, fudge, and more! If you tire of these festivities, take a ride around town in a horse drawn carriage in Rockville. And in Bridgeton, you can even take a ride in a helicopter. Rides are just $20!
Around town:
The local shops, galleries and restaurants located throughout the towns in Parke County are all open to festival goers. Many offer sales and specials throughout the event. You’ll also notice several pop-up yard sales throughout county. With so many goodies to choose from, it’s unlikely you’ll leave empty handed!
Covered bridges:
With all the eating, shopping and entertainment to enjoy, you may forget what the festival is actually all about – the covered bridges! You’ll have to leave the main site to see them all, but on a sunny October day it makes for a beautiful drive! Use this interactive map to plan your tour of the Parke County covered bridges.
WHAT TO BRING
An empty stomach:
One of the highlights at the festival is the food! There are a wide variety of goodies to try, so you’ll want to arrive with an empty stomach and taste a little bit of everything. You’ll find homemade soups, ribs, BBQ, peach & pumpkin butter, pies, cobbler, dumplings, loaded baked potatoes, kettle corn, donuts, taffy, fudge and so much more!
Cash:
The event is free to attend, but if you plan on purchasing food, crafts or other treasures, you’ll need to have some cash on hand. Most food items range between $5-$7 and the proceeds go to support small businesses and local non-profit organizations.
You’ll also need cash to pay for parking. There are several lots available ranging from $2-$5.
Weather appropriate clothing:
This is an outdoor event and temperatures can be unpredictable in October. I’ve experienced cold rainy days and warm sunny days at the festival. Your best bet is to dress in layers so you’ll be comfortable throughout the day.
Walking shoes:
Festival events in Rockville, Bridgeton and Mansfield all take place on grassy lawns, so you’ll want to wear shoes that you don’t mind getting a bit dirty. And keep in mind that if you venture out to see the covered bridges, which you should, you’ll be walking on dirt roads and wooded trails.
An Umbrella:
The festival takes place rain or shine, so it’s a good idea to keep an umbrella handy just in case you get caught in a shower.
Your Camera:
This is a unique event and with so much to see and do you’ll want to have your camera to capture all the fun.
Your dog!
Since the event takes place outdoors, pups are welcome!
If you’ve never attended the Parke County Covered Bridge Festival and you’re in the Indianapolis area, you should definitely consider checking it out. It’s a great way to spend the weekend and is guaranteed fun for the entire family!
Have you ever attended the Covered Bridge Festival? What are some of the unique local events in your area?! Share your comments below!
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