Gopher Count facts for kids
The Gopher Count is a fun annual festival held in Viola, Minnesota, United States. This exciting community event has been happening every year since 1874! It always takes place on the third Thursday in June.
The festival is named after an old practice of collecting a reward, called a bounty, for catching gophers. Even today, the local township still pays a small reward for gophers. However, the festival is mostly about celebrating together now, not just gopher hunting!
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What is the Gopher Count Festival?
The Gopher Count is a long-standing tradition in Viola, Minnesota. It's a special time when the community comes together for a day of celebration. This festival is even older than the famous Kentucky Derby horse race!
Fun Activities at the Festival
The Gopher Count festival is packed with exciting activities for everyone. You can enjoy a lively parade that winds through the town. There's also a cool tractor show where you can see all sorts of farm machines.
Contests and Entertainment
Get ready for some friendly competition at the festival! One unique event is the nail-driving contest, which is just for women. There's also a messy but fun pie-eating contest. As the day ends, you can enjoy dazzling fireworks and dancing.
Why is it Called the Gopher Count?
The festival's name comes from its history. Long ago, people in the area would count the gophers they caught. This was because gophers could damage crops. The community would pay a small amount of money for each gopher to help farmers.
Gophers and Their Role
Gophers are small animals that live underground. They dig tunnels and eat plant roots. While they can be a problem for farms, the Gopher Count festival has turned this history into a unique celebration. Today, the focus is on community fun, not just gopher control.
Where is the Gopher Count Held?
The Gopher Count festival takes place in the small town of Viola, Minnesota. It's a great example of how a local tradition can bring people together year after year.
