It started as a one-day merchants sidewalk sale in downtown Victoria 30 years ago.

Since then, the annual Herzogfest has grown into a weekend community celebration and moved to Honey Braun Park.  And all these years, it’s been a free event, and Rick Rupp has been the chairman.

Rupp announced during Saturday morning’s opening ceremony that he is stepping down from the position.

President Marge Rome says she’ll likely still call on Rupp for advice as the festival moves forward.  “We’re also looking for new committee volunteers,” she adds.

According to Rupp, the two main directives of the Herzogfest Board of Directors are to honor and celebrate the local German heritage, and to provide a free community celebration focusing on family-oriented fun.  “We couldn’t do it without the support of all our sponsors, who provide in-kind donations as well as that all-important cash,” says Rupp.

Find out more about the Victoria Herzogfest tonight on Street Beat Eagle Community TV Channel 14.