The Washington & Greene County Covered Bridge Festival just transpired. It is held annually on the third weekend of September, and celebrates the covered bridges in the area. Crafts, food and live music are included, and there are nine different sites across Washington & Greene County. It is a great time to have fun with family or friends and enjoy the local community. Admission is free to all attendees.The festival ran from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.this past Saturday and Sunday, Sept.16 and 17. 

On Saturday, the event kicked off with a flag raising and the National Anthem. There were activities for children, wagon rides and live music performances by Jason Woods, Heart-Beat!, Back Porch Gospel and Ambassadors of Christ. There was also be an opportunity to see a Civil War reenactment, titled the “Battle for the Bridge,” at 3 p.m. 

On Sunday, the flag raising began at 9:55 a.m., as there was a worship service at 10 a.m. with Reverend Gary Whipkey of John Corbly Memorial Baptist Church. Sunday’s music performances include Witness, Choz-N-1s, Free Spirit, Dan Cunningham and Still Standing. 

Many crafts were offered, such as handmade wood items, homemade jewelry, floral arrangements, knives, T-shirts and ball caps and  more. 

Food for this event included pies, sloppy joes, creamed chicken, sweet and hot sausage, BBQ ham, hamburgers, hot dogs and more, all made by local non-profits. 

I spoke with the Washington County Bridge Department Supervisor, Bob Garove. Here is what he had to say. “We care for and maintain the bridges all year round. But the covered bridge festival is a huge crowd draw. Even though I get all of the bridges prepared I only work at the Mingo Park one, but it’s just an overall enjoyable event. Many families attend and many local vendors share mostly handmade items. Great food, and people love the scenery and experience of making memories with friends and family. It has become a tradition for many. I highly recommend checking out as many covered bridge festival sites as possible. There is so much to do and see!”