For as long as we all can remember, the famous covered bridges of Madison County have been a top Iowa destination. These six famous, historic bridges have represented the simple charm of the Hawkeye State, and they inspired both a novel and a film where they were the stars. Madison County still holds its bridges dear, and efforts are continually made to preserve, restore, and protect them. Every year, Winterset, Iowa turns into a fall festival wonderland, celebrating the Madison County Covered Bridge Festival.

This year, the Bridges of Madison County are on display at the 49th Annual Madison County Covered Bridge Festival.
Facebook / Madison County Covered Bridge Festival
This year, the festival will be held October 13-14, 2018, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. in downtown Winterset, Iowa.
Throughout the county, there are six bridges still remaining. They are Cedar, Cutler–Donahoe, Hogback, Holliwell, Imes, and Roseman. Each of them is on display to the public.
Facebook / Madison County Covered Bridge Festival
During the festival, Winterset (the county seat) turns into a town full of fall-themed festivities.
Facebook / Madison County Covered Bridge Festival
Old-fashioned, historic shops open up, with actors dressed in pioneer-era clothing explaining what life was like in the 1800s, when many of the bridges were built.
Facebook / Madison County Covered Bridge Festival
Vendors from all over the state show up here to sell food, sweets, home decor, and handmade goods to the thousands of visitors that attend.
Facebook / Madison County Covered Bridge Festival

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The selection in the shopping village will impress you — there's always something new and exciting to see.
Facebook / Madison County Covered Bridge Festival
Family entertainment is a big part of the festival, too. Join the Tractor Ride to feel truly immersed in Madison County culture.
Facebook / Madison County Covered Bridge Festival
Of course, as part of your festival excursion, take a road trip to visit as many of the famed bridges as you can find!
Flickr / Richard Swearinger
They're scattered about Madison County, so pick up a map from the County Office in Winterset and hit the road.
Flickr / Andrew Seaman
There's nothing quite like seeing such a huge piece of Iowa history up close.
Flickr / Andrew Seaman

The Madison County Covered Bridge festival features, vendors, a car show, live music, a quilt show, old-fashioned demonstrations and reenactments, food, and more! You’ll find all the hoopla in Downtown Winterset, around Jefferson Street. Admission is just $2 for visitors over 11 years old (and children younger than that can party for free)!

To learn more about the history of each beautiful covered bridge, read These 6 Beautiful Covered Bridges In Iowa Will Remind You Of A Much Simpler Time

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