54th Annual Gopher Hill Festival
October 1 - 3, 2026
“Every Hand Has Made A Difference”
Celebrating the people, traditions, and community that make Ridgeland shine
The Gopher Hill Festival is a beloved small-town tradition bringing our community together every first weekend in October. From live music and parades to local vendors and family fun, there’s something for everyone.
🐢 Tortoise Races
🎶 Live Music & Entertainment
🎈 Kids Activities & Bounce Houses
🛍️ Local Vendors & Food
A Ridgeland Tradition Since 1972
Festival Favorites You Don’t Want to Miss
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![Children and adults participating in a turtle race at a festival, with spectators watching from behind a tent and a railing.]()
Turtle Races
Our signature event and a crowd favorite! Cheer on your favorite racer and experience the fun that makes Gopher Hill Festival one-of-a-kind.
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![A band performing live on an outdoor stage with musical instruments including guitars, saxophone, drums, and keyboard, under a partly cloudy sky with modern buildings in the background.]()
Live Music
Enjoy performances from talented local bands and artists throughout the weekend—there’s always something playing!
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![Crowd of people waiting at a street corner, with some crossing the street and others standing near a traffic light and orange cones, in a busy urban area with shops and a small park.]()
Parades
From the main parade to the children’s parade, enjoy a colorful celebration filled with community spirit and creativity.
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![Row of food trucks with colorful exteriors parked outdoors.]()
Kids Zone
Fun for the whole family! Bounce houses, games, and activities designed to keep kids smiling all weekend long.
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![Crowd of people at an outdoor fair or festival with tents and flags under a blue sky.]()
Food & Craft Vendors
Shop local and grab a bite! Explore a variety of vendors offering handmade goods, unique finds, and delicious festival favorites.
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![People sitting at tables and watching a stage performance in an outdoor venue at night. A group of performers in pink shirts are on stage, and banners and signs advertising local businesses and the town of Ridgeland are visible.]()
Talent Show
Watch local talent take the stage! From music to performances, this crowd favorite showcases the creativity of our community.
Every Hand Has Made a Difference
For 54 years, the Gopher Hill Festival has been built by the hands of this community.
From volunteers and vendors to performers, sponsors, and families—each person has played a part in creating a tradition that brings Ridgeland together year after year.
This year, we celebrate the contributions of so many who have helped make the festival what it is today—and those who continue to carry it forward.
Thank you to everyone—past and present—who has helped shape the Gopher Hill Festival.
Be Part of the Festival
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![A colorful food truck with Mexican-inspired artwork and menu signage, with three women standing in front of it, in an urban outdoor setting.]()
Food & Craft Vendors
Showcase your products, crafts, or cuisine to thousands of festival-goers. Vendor spaces are limited—reserve yours early!
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![Two hands shaking in a firm handshake against a plain light gray background.]()
Become A Sponsor
Support a long-standing community tradition and help bring the Gopher Hill Festival to life. Sponsorship opportunities are available at multiple levels.
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![Marching band members in black uniforms with blue accents playing trumpets while walking down the street during a parade, with spectators watching from the sidewalk.]()
Parade & Performers
Get involved in the parade, talent show, or live entertainment. We welcome local groups, performers, and organizations to participate.
Thank You to Our Sponsors
We are grateful for the businesses and organizations whose support helps make the Gopher Hill Festival possible.
Platinum Sponsors
