Weekend plans? The Covered Bridge Festival has you covered

Head to Winterset for the Madison County Covered Bridge Festival. (Photo: Madison County Tourism)

Experience the charm that inspired the bestselling novel, hit movie and Broadway musical during the annual Madison County Covered Bridge Festival in Winterset. It celebrates the bridges and all things Midwest with tons of activities Oct. 12 and 13.

Kick things off with a pancake breakfast or a 5K race, but maybe not both back-to-back. There’s plenty more to see and do, including a classic car show, a spelling bee, a farmers market and tours of the famous bridges. This year, more than 150 vendors will surround the courthouse square with art, historical activities, crafting demonstrations, food and live entertainment. (Whether you count live chain saw carving as a demonstration or live entertainment depends on your perspective.)

Plus, kids can enjoy visits from Blank Park Zoo animals, face painting, chalk art and inflatables.

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