Souvenirs: The Viola Gopher Count has a number of souvenir items for sale including hats, t-shirts, sweatshirts, mugs, magnets, and history books. These items are for sale throughout the celebration in front of the town hall. Souvenirs are also available by mail for cost plus shipping.
Family Night/Talent Show: Wednesday, June 16th 2010. Family Fun Night kicks off the Gopher Count celebration. A talent show featuring local talent will begin at 7:00 p.m. The 5K Run/Walk starts at 6:15 P.M. This 5K provided a challenge for many seasoned runners. The course layout remains undetermined at this time. However it will likely include the new bike path . Come out and conquer the hills. Concessions and carnival rides will be open from 6:00 – 9:00. Click here to download our talent show form.
Concessions: The Gopher Count food stand is home of the famous grilled cheese-hamburger. The stand and others provide a full array of “fair food” items. A beer tent opens at noon on Thursday and continues through the night. Make sure to try the home-made cheese curds. They are a "must-have".
Parade: Plan on attending the Viola Gopher Count Grand Parade Thursday. The rain or shine parade starts promptly at 10:00 AM. A favorite among those watching is the Family Float division. This will again be the case in 2009. Parade entrants are asked to arrive prior to 9:00 A.M. Businesses and individuals are invited to enter the parade by contacting gophercount@att.net or call 545-2766.
Due to scheduling/organization conflicts the Tractor & Equipment show event is canceled for the 2010 event. Any and all tractors are still welcomed to participate in the parade only. However, the ride is unfortunately canceled. Any questions: call 507-545-2766.
Tractor & Equipment Show: Back for a second year! This years ride is planned to be longer with the group covering a total of 45 miles. We will travel East toward Whitewater Valley and stop for lunch at Whitewater State Park. For more specific information and entry forms contact us at: gophercount@att.net or call 545-2766.
Soap Box Derby: The Soap Box Derby is open to kids under 12 who construct their own derby. Races are held on Thomas Street at 11:30. Cars may be provided for those kids wanting to "take a ride".
Crowning of the Royalty:Royalty is selected from senior citizens who reside within the township. Crowning takes place at 12:30 on the main stage under the tent. Township residents who are interested in voting for royalty may contact gophercount@att.net or call 545-2766.
Congratulations Laurie and Gary Meyer, 2010 Gopher Count King and Queen.
Doll buggy parade: The doll buggy parade is held on the big stage under the tent beginning at 1:00P.M. This has become a long standing tradition among the youth and preschoolers.
Contests/Races: Thursday afternoon is filled with a variety of contests and races. Contests include: Ladies Nail Driving Contest, Pie Eating Contest, Tug-of-War, Sack Races, Three-legged Races, and Foot races. These races are open to all ages. Events begin under the tent 2:00 P.M. Come enjoy a leisure afternoon watching longtime family and friends competing against each other.
Street Dance: Viola Gopher Count welcomes back Troubleshooter to the Street Dance. Troubleshooter will be joined by local band Standby to provide nonstop music from 7:30 to 1:00. Come out for two great bands under the big tent. Admission: $10. Remember rain or shine... the dance goes on!!!!
**** Special Thanks to those who participated and sponsored individuals in the 2009 5K Run & Family Walk. On January 16, 2010 the Viola Gopher Count organization donated $1700.00 to Eagles Cancer Telethon. For more information on this year's run: Please contact Jerry @ 259-7217. Come out and enjoy one of the more challenging 5K courses in the area.
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