Washington and Greene counties are gearing up for the beloved Covered Bridge Festival, which returns this year for its third weekend in September. Since its inception in 1971, the festival has highlighted the region’s more than 30 historic covered bridges, nine of which will host a full slate of events this weekend.
Bridges and Activities
Festival-goers can explore a variety of attractions at each bridge site. At the Brownlee Bridge in McGuffey Community Park, visitors will enjoy antique tractor and equipment displays, as well as wagon rides that evoke a bygone era. Over at Wyit Sprowls Bridge in East Finley Township Park, families can bounce in a inflatable play area, tour the historic Jordan Schoolhouse, watch a “Wild World of Animals” showcase, and even cheer on a quirky chicken‑flying contest.
The remaining bridge locations each offer their own unique programming:
- Hughes Bridge in Amwell Township – live folk music and local artisans.
- Ebenezer and Henry bridges in Mingo Creek County Park – craft demonstrations and heritage food stalls.
- McClurg Bridge in Hanover Township Park – historical reenactments and storytelling.
- Pine Bank Bridge at the Meadowcroft Rockshelter and Historic Village – guided tours of the archaeological site.
- Carmichaels Bridge – regional culinary specialties and a kids’ art corner.
- White Bridge in Garards Fort – a showcase of local musicians and a community bake‑off.
Family‑Friendly Fun and Community Spirit
Beyond the bridge‑specific events, the festival provides a unifying celebration of the area’s heritage. Attendees can sample homestyle foods ranging from Pennsylvania Dutch pretzels to fresh‑made apple pies, while local bands fill the air with bluegrass, country, and classic rock tunes. Craft vendors display handmade quilts, pottery, and woodworking, offering shoppers a chance to support regional artisans.
For families, the festival’s programming emphasizes hands‑on learning. Children can participate in interactive workshops, such as traditional blacksmithing demos and historic costume dress‑up. The “Wild World of Animals” show introduces young visitors to native wildlife, reinforcing the community’s connection to the natural landscape that surrounds the bridges.
Planning Your Visit
All events are free to the public, and parking is available at each bridge site. Visitors are encouraged to wear comfortable shoes and bring water, as the festival grounds span multiple parks and outdoor areas. Detailed schedules and additional information can be found on the official Washington County tourism website at visitwashingtoncountypa.com.
The Covered Bridge Festival continues to be a cherished tradition that brings together residents, tourists, and history enthusiasts. By celebrating the engineering marvels of the past and providing a vibrant platform for local culture, the festival reinforces the strong sense of community that defines Washington and Greene counties.
Original reporting: Herald-Standard – latest news for Uniontown, Pennsylvania — read the source article.
