Covered Bridge Festival

As the leaves begin to turn and a crispness enters the Indiana air, many Hoosiers look forward to the cherished traditions that make autumn so special. Among these, the Covered Bridge Festival in Matthews, Indiana, stands out as a beloved annual event. While not a campground in the traditional sense, this vibrant festival is centered around the historic Cumberland Covered Bridge and draws visitors from across the state, creating a lively atmosphere that campers and festival-goers alike will appreciate. This article will guide you through what makes the Matthews Covered Bridge Festival a must-visit destination, offering insights into its unique charm, the myriad activities it offers, and why it's a perfect autumnal outing for anyone in the Indiana region.

The festival is more than just an event; it's a celebration of local heritage, community spirit, and the beauty of Grant County. It offers a wonderful opportunity to step back in time, enjoy wholesome entertainment, and discover unique treasures from local artisans. For those who love the outdoors and seek engaging cultural experiences, the Covered Bridge Festival provides a fantastic complement to any camping trip or a delightful day trip in itself. Prepare to be enchanted by the sights, sounds, and flavors that define this cherished Indiana tradition, a place where memories are made with every stroll across the historic bridge.

The Covered Bridge Festival is proudly held in Matthews, Indiana, with its central hub often around the iconic Cumberland Covered Bridge. The festival's mailing address is given as 625 Massachusetts Ave, Matthews, IN 46957, USA, which is a key thoroughfare in the town. Matthews itself is a small, welcoming community nestled in Grant County, making it easily accessible for visitors from across central and northern Indiana. Major roadways provide straightforward routes to the area, ensuring a smooth journey whether you're coming from nearby Marion, Fort Wayne, or even further afield from Indianapolis.

The festival’s location next to the historic 1877 Cumberland Covered Bridge is a significant draw, offering a picturesque backdrop to the festivities. Free parking is typically available, making it convenient for families and groups to attend. The layout of the festival, often centered around the bridge and extending into various areas of the town, allows for easy navigation for pedestrians. This accessibility, combined with the charm of a small-town setting, makes the Covered Bridge Festival an ideal destination for a day trip or a weekend exploration of Indiana's heritage.

As a festival rather than a traditional campground, the Covered Bridge Festival offers a diverse range of experiences and amenities for attendees:

• Craft and Flea Market: A vast array of vendors offer unique craft exhibits, handmade goods, and various flea market finds. This is a prime opportunity to discover local artistry and unique treasures.

• Food Vendors: Indulge in a wide variety of delicious festival food. A highlight often mentioned by visitors is the world-famous Matthews Lions Club frosted malts, a treat not to be missed.

• Live Entertainment: Enjoy a schedule of live music and stage entertainment throughout the festival. The performances often feature local talent, adding to the community spirit.

• Antique Engine and Tractor Displays: For enthusiasts of history and machinery, the festival showcases impressive displays of antique engines, a steam-powered sawmill, and an antique tractor pull, offering a glimpse into agricultural heritage.

• Children's Activities: The festival is highly family-friendly, typically featuring inflatables, horse rides, and other fun activities designed to keep younger visitors entertained.

• Car Show: Often, the Matthews Volunteer Fire Department hosts an annual car show during the festival, displaying classic and unique vehicles for enthusiasts to admire.

• Historic Bridge Access: The Cumberland Covered Bridge itself is a central feature, allowing visitors to walk or even drive through this beautifully preserved piece of Indiana history.

• Historic Cumberland Covered Bridge: The focal point of the festival, this 1877 Howe Truss bridge spans the Mississinewa River and is the last remaining covered bridge in Grant County. Its rich history, including being swept downstream in the 1913 flood and returned by horses, adds to its unique charm.

• Family-Friendly Atmosphere: With activities like inflatables, horse rides, and live entertainment, the festival is designed to be enjoyable for all ages, making it a perfect outing for families. As one reviewer enthusiastically put it, "Love this festival!!!!"

• Unique Craft and Food Offerings: The extensive craft and flea market, combined with diverse food vendors and the iconic frosted malts, provide a distinct sensory experience that highlights local flavors and craftsmanship.

• Celebration of Heritage: The festival beautifully celebrates the history of Matthews and Grant County, showcasing antique machinery and preserving the story of the covered bridge, offering an educational as well as entertaining experience.

• Community Engagement: Organized by the Matthews Lions Club and often involving the Volunteer Fire Department, the festival exemplifies strong community involvement, creating a warm and welcoming environment for visitors.

• Affordable Fun: With a typical admission fee of just $2 and free entry for children 10 and under, the festival is promoted as offering "The Most Entertainment in Indiana for $2.00," making it an incredibly accessible and value-packed event.

While the festival does not have a public phone number directly associated with a "campground" aspect, general inquiries for the Covered Bridge Festival in Matthews, Indiana, can often be directed through the organizing body or local visitor information services. For the Matthews Covered Bridge Festival, the Matthews Lions Club is the primary organizer. Specific contacts for entertainment or general information are sometimes listed on their official website or through local tourism bureaus.

Address: 625 Massachusetts Ave, Matthews, IN 46957, USA (This is a general address for the area where the festival takes place, not a direct contact point for inquiries.)

For specific festival inquiries, it is recommended to visit the official Matthews Covered Bridge Festival website or contact the Grant County Visitors Bureau.

The Matthews Covered Bridge Festival is an ideal destination for Indiana locals, offering a quintessential Hoosier experience that combines history, community, and entertainment. Its accessibility within the state makes it a convenient choice for a day trip or a weekend getaway, providing a refreshing break from routine. For those residing in Indiana, the festival offers a unique opportunity to connect with local heritage through the magnificent Cumberland Covered Bridge, a testament to the state's historical landscape.

The festival’s diverse offerings cater to a wide range of interests, ensuring there's something for everyone. Families will appreciate the child-friendly activities and the safe, welcoming atmosphere. Food enthusiasts can savor local delicacies, while history buffs can explore antique machinery and the story of the bridge. The strong sense of community and the affordable entry make it a truly inclusive event, fostering a feeling of local pride and shared enjoyment. It’s a place where you can create new fall traditions with loved ones, support local artisans, and simply enjoy the vibrant spirit of an Indiana autumn. The Matthews Covered Bridge Festival is more than just an event; it's a celebration of what makes Indiana special, making it a perfect outing for any local looking for authentic charm and fun.

Covered Bridge Festival

625 Massachusetts Ave, Matthews, IN 46957, USA