This year marked the 64th Godahl Day and once again the weather held out for the event. Godahl Day organizer Amy Hanson said she was nervous for rain, like last year, but this year it was all sunshine for the festivities.

The celebration began with musical performances from Harry Wojahn. Later, Lynn Stoneking and her family took the stage.

Near the playground, all ages were able to test their luck at Bingo. Inside the Recreation Center, families could have a full meal. Those who wanted a quick burger and hotdog could visit the baseball field concession stand.

In the afternoon the entire town and all the guests gather to watch the Godahl Day parade travel through town on County Road 6.

Staff photo by Clay Schuldt The brother team of Bryce Fischer (left) and Logan Fischer (right) scramble to collect as much candy as possible. The two were positioned on the corner of the parade route and managed a sizable haul.

After the parade, the Miss Godahl coronation is held on the village stage. Last year’s Miss Godahl Ana Parker turned over her crown to Mya Hanson who will serve as Miss Godahl until next Labor Day.

Both Parker and Hanson were asked to say what they liked best about Godahl Day.

Parker said the best part was being able to see and speak with people who are not normally in the community.

Hanson said her favorite thing was the welcoming environment of the people in Godahl.

These sentiments shared by others. Godahl Day organizer and Miss Godahl’s mother, Amy Hanson, said others were excited to attend because it remains the same year after year.

“People like it because nothing changes,” Hanson said. “If you like playing Bingo and you like eating pie, we’ve still got that.”

Hanson believed Godahl Day draws a crowd because people appreciate community events as life gets more complicated. A lot of former Godahl residents return to town to reminisce and see old faces.

One thing in Godahl did change in the last year. Hanson acknowledged a new bench placed near the baseball field. The bench was donated in honor of Darlene Olson.

Olson ran the former Godahl Store for over 40 years until is closed. A memorial bench was donated to the ballpark with her name and etching of historic store. Olson was a strong supporter of the Godahl community.

It takes a community to keep Godahl Day going. Around a hundred volunteers are needed to make Godahl Day possible. Some volunteers help set up days before the celebration, while others help on the day by selling raffle tickets or food.

Revenue generated from Godahl Day helps to support the communities baseball program by providing funds for field maintenance and the recreation center. Each year the profits are used to make needed improvements.