FRANKENMUTH, Mich. August 27, 2018 – In a state full of lakes, rivers and other waterways, Michigan residents are no strangers to bridges. But one bridge in particular has been a big part of the Labor Day holiday for 32 years.

Since 1986, hundreds of Frankenmuth residents and guests have come together for the Annual Bavarian Inn Wooden Covered Bridge (Holz Brücke) Labor Day Walk. This year it will take place at noon, Monday, September 3.

The bridge, originally built in 1980 and restored three years ago, was made with timbers from Oregon and locally sourced shingles for its roof and 16-foot planks that form the roadway.

This year’s event will once again begin on the east side of the 239-foot structure, which spans Cass River between the Bavarian Inn Lodge and the Bavarian Inn Restaurant. Guests staying at the Bavarian Inn Lodge over the Labor Day weekend are invited to join Frankenmuth residents and visitors for the annual tradition. Walkers will arrive approximately five minutes later at the Fischer Platz outdoor café, located at the southwest corner of the Bavarian Inn Restaurant. Once there, all in attendance will be able to enjoy musical entertainment along with their favorite food and beverages that will be available for purchase.

Today, Bavarian Inn President Bill Zehnder still recalls the vision of Al and Louise Schneider, a Frankenmuth couple who had in their minds the Mackinac Bridge Labor Day Walk tradition.

"One day they were talking at home and thought out loud about the idea of bringing that spirit right here at home in Frankenmuth," said Zehnder. "We're grateful for their vision and remain determined to make sure we continue that tradition."

About Bavarian Inn

Celebrating 130 years of service in 2018, the Bavarian Inn Restaurant has become a Michigan landmark. Generations of diners, lodgers and tourists from around the globe have discovered true Bavarian hospitality thanks to Dorothy and her late husband William “Tiny” Zehnder. Guests experience the old-world European charm of the Bavarian Inn – whether it’s the famous chicken dinners, fresh baked goods or Michigan’s greatest selection of German beer. Bavarian Inn also prides itself on being one of the top consumers of Pure Michigan agricultural products. Nestled within a backdrop of authentic German architecture, a variety of shops and other fun activities, a trip to Frankenmuth would not be complete without a visit to the Bavarian Inn. Learn more at www.bavarianinn.com.

Bavarian Inn online press room: https://bavarianinn.logos-communications.com/

Bavarian Inn Lodge

Nestled along the Cass River in one of Michigan’s top tourist destinations – Frankenmuth – is one of the state’s largest Indoor Water Park Hotels! The Lodge has 360 European-themed guest rooms, including whirlpool and family suites, an adult-only pool and whirlpool, two gift shops, two lounges and two restaurants — all under one roof. The expansive 35,000 square feet Family Fun Center houses two dramatic waterslides, three pools and two whirlpools, over 160 video and redemption games, a two-story children’s play village and Willy’s Kingdom indoor mini-golf course. Guests can also enjoy live, year-round, nightly entertainment and test their own musical skills during weekend family karaoke shows. In 30 years of business, the Bavarian Inn Lodge has been an important destination for travelers, evidenced by the 1.25 million room-nights that have been booked there since its opening, along with its top rating on TripAdvisor®. Learn more at www.bavarianinn.com .

Bavarian Inn Lodge online press room: https://bavarianinnlodge.logos-communications.com