The Mankato Free Press

Distributed by Tribune Content Agency

With the Vikings players arriving Saturday for training camp, the community has set the right tone for making the team’s 50th year in Mankato memorable.

The tourism bureau Visit Mankato, businesses, and the community have put together a number of events that should be good for fans and the team. Helping start the narrative last week, the Blue Earth County Historical Society opened its 50th anniversary Vikings Training Camp exhibit showcasing memorabilia from local Vikings fans.

Two Viking alumni, defensive back John Swain and running back Dave Osborn, made appearances at the opening reception for the exhibit. Fans contributed their memorabilia for display.

The Free Press book “Skol!Vikings 50” will also be available at the historical society, Barnes & Noble and at The Free Press. It is a unique photo story book tracking hundreds of photos taken over the years by Free Press photographers at Vikings Training Camp.

Visit Mankato plans a Vikings big opening party 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. near the Memorial Library on Saturday when players arrive. Fans will have a chance to meet Vikings cheerleaders and see autographs from players. Food and drink will be served and there will be games and giveaways.

Visit Mankato also has set up a Vikings spirit contest for businesses to show the most Vikings spirit. Viktor the Viking mascot will judge the entries and the top five winners will get Vikings memorabilia.

The 50th anniversary will give fans an opportunity to dive into all things Vikings in Mankato, and the team itself is offering more promise this year for a winning season, with new and exciting players from rookies to free agents.

While Mankato fans have seen the Vikings come and go for 50 years, this year is likely to be more exciting.