Parke County Covered Bridge Festival Returns Driving Regional Economic Impact

The 2026 Parke County Covered Bridge Festival is well underway and continues through October 18, welcoming visitors from across Indiana and beyond to experience the county's historic covered bridges, local businesses, artisans and unique communities. As Indiana's largest festival, the 10-day event attracts more than one million visitors annually and serves as a major economic driver for West Central Indiana. Beyond Parke County, businesses, vendors and hospitality destinations throughout the five-county region benefit from the influx of visitors, highlighting how one of the region's most celebrated traditions creates economic opportunities across county lines.