About This Festival
Event Summary: Over the River and Through the Woods MorningFest
Location & Surroundings
The Over the River and Through the Woods MorningFest takes place in Montezuma, Parke County, Indiana, often referred to as the “Covered Bridge Capital of the World” for its impressive collection of 31 historic covered bridges. The festival’s main activities are centered near the Ceres Solutions at 4338 W. Co. Rd. 40 N., Rockville, but the running event itself weaves through some of the area’s most iconic landmarks—the Sim Smith and Phillips Covered Bridges. These bridges are set in a pastoral, rural landscape characterized by rolling hills, woodlands, and the gently flowing Leatherwood Creek, creating a picturesque and historically rich backdrop.
Event Vibe
Expect a family-friendly, community-focused atmosphere with a blend of outdoor recreation, history, and local pride. The event is handicapped accessible, emphasizing inclusivity. The combination of a run/walk through historic covered bridges, recognition for the largest group, and a festival setting near Ceres Solutions suggests a relaxed, celebratory mood—ideal for both serious runners and casual participants who want to enjoy the local scenery and heritage.
Activities & Schedule
Activities (with Approximate Schedule and Locations)
| Time | Activity | Location | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8:00 AM | Registration & Group Gatherings | Ceres Solutions (4338 W. Co. Rd. 40 N.) | Participants check in, form groups, and prepare for the run/walk. |
| 8:30 AM | Opening Remarks/Briefing | Ceres Solutions | Organizers welcome attendees, outline the route, and review safety rules. |
| 9:00 AM | Run/Walk begins | Start at Ceres Solutions, through bridges | Main event: A scenic run/walk through Sim Smith and Phillips Covered Bridges. |
| 10:30 AM | Finish & Refreshments | Ceres Solutions | Participants return; light snacks and beverages provided. |
| 11:00 AM | Awards Ceremony | Ceres Solutions | Medals awarded to top three male/female finishers; largest group recognized. |
| 11:30 AM+ | Festival Activities/Mingle | Ceres Solutions | Local music, food, and socializing; explore nearby bridges and countryside. |
Activity Descriptions
- Run/Walk Through Historic Covered Bridges: The highlight is a footrace that traverses the Sim Smith and Phillips Covered Bridges, both of which are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Sim Smith Covered Bridge, built in 1883, is a classic Burr Truss structure spanning Leatherwood Creek, while the Phillips Covered Bridge is also nearby, making for a unique and photogenic route.
- Awards: Competitive elements include medals for the top three male and female finishers in both the run and walk categories, as well as a special award for the largest participating group, encouraging team spirit and community involvement.
- Festival Atmosphere: After the run, the event transitions into a more relaxed festival setting with local music, food, and the chance to explore the surrounding area, including additional covered bridges and natural scenery.
- Accessibility: The event is designed to be inclusive, with accommodations for participants with disabilities.
History & Founding
Event History
While the exact founding year and origin story of the Over the River and Through the Woods MorningFest are not detailed in the available information, the event is clearly rooted in the local tradition of celebrating Parke County’s historic covered bridges. The bridges themselves are a major draw—Sim Smith Covered Bridge, built in 1883 by Joseph A. Britton, is a well-preserved example of 19th-century American engineering, and both it and the Phillips Covered Bridge are enduring symbols of the region’s heritage. The festival likely emerged as a way to promote tourism, community health, and appreciation for local history, capitalizing on the area’s reputation as a destination for covered bridge enthusiasts.
Cultural Context
Parke County is renowned for its annual Covered Bridge Festival, a much larger event that draws thousands of visitors each October. The Over the River and Through the Woods MorningFest appears to be a smaller, complementary event focused on fitness and family fun, set against the backdrop of the county’s celebrated bridges.
Summary Table: Key Details
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Event Name | Over the River and Through the Woods MorningFest |
| Date | September 27, 2025 |
| Location | Ceres Solutions, 4338 W. Co. Rd. 40 N., Rockville, near Montezuma, IN |
| Main Attraction | Run/Walk through Sim Smith & Phillips Covered Bridges |
| Activities | Competitive run/walk, group award, music, food, socializing |
| Accessibility | Handicapped accessible |
| Contact | (765) 492-9153 |
| Website | Montezuma, IN official site |
| Atmosphere | Family-friendly, community-focused, historic, scenic |
Conclusion
The Over the River and Through the Woods MorningFest offers a unique blend of outdoor activity, local history, and community celebration in one of Indiana’s most picturesque regions. Participants can enjoy a memorable run or walk through historic covered bridges, compete for awards, and relax at a welcoming festival—all while experiencing the charm and heritage of Parke County.