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Gopher Count Events, Viola Gopher Count - Viola MN
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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/Fireworks: Wednesday, June 18th 2008. Family Fun Night kicks off the Gopher Count celebration. A talent show featuring local talent will begin at 7:00 p.m. The new 5K Run starts at 6:15 P.M. Concessions and carnival rides will be open from 6:00 – 9:00. Fireworks will cap off the evening at dusk. Rain date is Thursday night, June 19th at dusk. 

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 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 which starts promptly at 10:00 AM, rain or shine. A favorite among those watching is the Family Float division. This will again be the case in 2008. Parade entrants are asked to arrive prior to 9:00 A.M. Businesses and individuals are invited to enter the parade by contacting gophercount@worldnet.att.net or call 545-2766.

Case Tractor & Equipment Show: In recent years the Viola Gopher Count organization has asked local collectors and tractor enthusiasts to be a part of the parade by entering their vintage tractors. This year, we will honor Case tractors built prior to 1960. Tractors will be judged in four categories: Oldest, Rarest, Best of Show, and Furthest Distance Traveled. All entries will receive a commemorative magnet noting the occasion. Tractors will be on display briefly following the parade. If you would like to enter your favorite Case tractor or equipment, you may contact gophercount@worldnet.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@worldnet.att.net or call 545-2766
Congratulations Harold & Gail Bethke, 2008 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: The gates to the street dance open at 6:00 P.M. with Troubleshooter providing the music. Viola’s own Scott Riess will provide music between sets for four hours of nonstop entertainment. Beer and setups are available. Last call midnight, music til 12:30!!! Food concessions and vendors will also be available. Cost: $8.00

NEW!!! 5K Run & Family Walk: This year mark what will hopfully become an annual event. The 5K Run will begin approximately 6:15 P.M. on Wednesday, June 18th. Proceeds to be donated to the Eagles Cancer Telethon. For more information contact: Jerry @ 259-7217. Come enjoy the beautiful countryside of Viola Township. Stay around for the Talent Show and Fireworks to follow.

 





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