Parke County Covered Bridge Festival
Discover Indiana's largest festival, the Parke County Covered Bridge Festival, a 10-day celebration showcasing 31 historic covered bridges. Explore nine unique festival communities, each offering authentic arts and crafts, fantastic food, and stunning fall foliage. This beloved event has been a tradition since 1957, drawing visitors to experience the charm of Parke County.
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What to Expect
Indiana's largest festival showcasing 31 historic covered bridges.
Know Before You Go
- Pets: No pets allowed (service animals welcome)
Local Insight & Ratings
Scare Factor
Family Friendly
Best For
Families, couples, and individuals interested in fall activities, crafts, and local culture.
Vibe
Festive, traditional, community-oriented, autumnal.
Energy Level
Moderate; involves walking and exploring multiple locations.
Budget
FREE
Photo Friendly
High; scenic covered bridges and fall foliage provide excellent photo opportunities.
Weather Sensitivity
Moderate; outdoor event, but many indoor vendor options and food courts are available.
Location
Event Details
Duration
10 days
Ages
All ages
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
Parke County Convention & Visitors Commission
Food & Drink
Fantastic food, chicken and noodle dinners, ham and beans, barbecue, roast hog, crullers, breaded tenderloins, homemade pies, ice cream, cookies.
Quick Actions
Tips & Advice
- Arrive early to explore the nine distinct festival communities, as each offers unique crafts and food specialties.
- Bring cash, as cell service can be limited, and some vendors may not be able to process card payments.
- Consider renting a scooter in Bridgeton or Mansfield for easier navigation around those specific festival locations.
- Plan your visit around the 2nd Friday in October to experience the full 10-day event, which has been a tradition since 1957.
- Download the Parke County map in advance to help navigate between the various festival locations and covered bridges.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are pets allowed?
Pets are not recommended due to the large crowds and limited access to buildings and grounds. Service animals are permitted.
Are golf carts allowed?
No, golf carts are not permitted at the festival.
Are scooters available?
Scooter rentals are available in Bridgeton and Mansfield only. Inquire directly with those locations for availability.
Do I need tickets?
No tickets are required for the Covered Bridge Festival itself. Tickets for Bus Tours can be purchased separately.
Will I have cell service?
Cell service can be limited due to the high number of visitors. It is advisable to come prepared with cash for vendors.
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.