41st annual Oktoberfest underway (VIDEO)

okt keg tap — Nick Werth and Tom Haas of the Volga German Society, along with FHSU president Ed Hammond, tap the official Oktoberfest keg

Perfect weather was a perfect backdrop for today’s opening ceremony of the 41st annual Oktoberfest celebration in Hays Frontier Park.

Emcee Mike Cooper of Eagle Communications, along with representatives from the city, Ellis County, the Volga German Society and Fort Hays State University, welcomed the crowd.

Special recognition was given to longtime Oktoberfest organizers, Eleanor Schippers and Leona Pfeifer.

Finally, the beer keg was tapped with singing of the traditional toast, “Ein Prosit.”

Polka music is provided by the Joe Dolezal band for the 18th consecutive year.

okt shorman hammond cooper — You, too, can get your official Oktoberfest photograph by Eagle Communications. See Gary Shorman, Eagle Communications Pres. & CEO, Dr. Ed Hammond, FHSU president, Mike Cooper, Eagle TV Community Connection, and all the other photos at #OKTFEST13.

Oktoberfest continues until 6p.m. tonight with music and dancing, food, beer, booths and lots of fun.