LANSING — Mother Nature eased off on cold temperatures for a while and let her Spring light shine down on Lansing this past Saturday for the first annual Beerfest at the Ballpark.

The event was held at the Cooley Law School Stadium in Downtown Lansing. Hundreds of craft beer aficionados and first-time beerfesters flocked to the ballpark, which is home to the Lansing Lugnuts.

Breweries sprawled on the front lawn of the stadium as well as setting up inside the concourse.

Michael Biddick, West Michigan Market Manager for Saugatuck Brewing Company, said the near 50 degree weather put everyone in a good mood.

“The sun is shining and everyone seems to be having a great time,” he said. “I believe they sold out, which is great for a first time event.”

People soaked up the sun as much as they could. While cold and chilly in the concourse, it was easy for festivalgoers to walk down a few steps to stadium seating in the sunlight.

Over 35 Michigan breweries, cideries and meaderies participated in the event. Entertainment was provided in the form of live acoustic music.

Lansing resident Dave Shannon was excited for the event as soon as it was announced.

“It’s great for the city,” he said. “I’m glad they’re bringing craft beer to Lansing. I think it really helps bring everyone together so we can all enjoy it.”

For $30, festivalgoers received 10 tasting tickets and a souvenir logo glass. With $35 tickets, patrons received early entry, a logo glass and 15 tasting tickets.

Proceeds from the event benefitted the Old News Boys of Lansing, which raises money to provide shoes and boots for children.

Biddick said feedback on all of the Saugatuck beers was positive. He also had a great time enjoying some beers like the rest of the crowd.

“I’m a big fan of Dark Horse’s Plead the Fifth and Kuhnhenn’s DRIPA,” he said. “It’s a great event and I hope they do it again and it continues to grow.”

As a lifelong Lansing resident, Shannon is excited for next year.

“I can’t wait to do it again,” he said. “The weather was perfect and we had a blast.”