- Performances by Winterset native and “The Bridges of Madison County” actress Sarah Schmitt Zahn. Sarah will be singing original pieces and songs from the Broadway musical of “Bridges”. Saturday at 2:00 pm on the Penrod Stage and Sunday at 4:00 pm on the Benge Family Stage.
- Chain Saw Carvingby Andy Klindt. His booth will be set up across from the Madison County Chamber of Commerce office.
- Sidewalk Chalk Artist Kathleen Roling will create a 3D rendering featuring the Cedar Bridge at the southwest corner of the festival grounds, starting at 9:00 am on Saturday and finishing by the late afternoon.
- Filmmaking Contest—Stop in at The Iowa Theater between 9:00 am and 1:00 pm, Saturday and Sunday, to view and vote for your favorite original short film featuring a bridge.
- Screening of TheBridges of Madison County at The Iowa Theater, followed by a panel discussion with actress Sarah Schmitt Zahn (young Carolyn), Dave Trask (featured in the Northside Cafe scene) and John Reed (assisted with film production). Saturday starting at 2:00 pm.
- Spot a Star! Be on the lookout for famous Iowa-based movie characters walking the square. Get your “Spot a Star” card at the gate when you purchase your ticket. Snag a picture with each star and get a sticker for your card. Drop off your completed card at The Iowa Theater’s booth for a chance to win a prize pack from the theater! Both days, 10 am to 2 pm.
- The Iowa Theater welcomes the filmmakers behind the upcoming documentary “Stout Hearted: George Stout the Man Who Rescued Art.” Watch exclusive clips alongside Stout’s granddaughter and other family members. Stay for the feature film The Monuments Men. ($6/adults, $5/seniors and children under 12.) Saturday at 6:00 pm, The Iowa Theater.
- Madison County Scenic Byways Art Piece Dedication, join the Byways Art Selection Committee for the dedication of the art piece “The Story of George Stout” by Michael Goodall. Coffee and a snack will be provided. Saturday at 8 am, corner of 1st and Washington (school administration building).
- Guided Church History Tours, First United Presbyterian Church, 210 W. Green St. View rose stain glass windows and a rare pipe organ, plus learn about Madison County’s connections to the Underground Railroad. Saturday between 10-11:30 am, and 2:30-4:00 pm.
- Winterset Art Center — Stop by to view the new gallery exhibit, “Variations”, by artist James Givan. Art pieces are for sale. Stay to tour the studios and enjoy free hands-on children’s activities. Saturday, 10 am to 4:30 pm; Sunday, 10 am to 1 pm.
See the full schedule of activities at entertainment for the 48th Annual Madison County Covered Bridge Festival, October 14 and 15, at this link.