Brewers fans arrive bright and early to American Family Field for Game 1 of the World Series
MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) — Brewers fans waited for hours just to get into the parking lots at American Family Field for the first game of the World Series.
Many of the first fans to arrive were season ticket holders who often tailgate for every game, but of course, this game is far from ordinary.
"I barely slept last night. This is this is our year. This is it. This you have to be here. You can't miss this," said Val Hammett of Muskego, who arrived with her husband and friends at 7:45 a.m.
Some fans couldn't even wait until Friday morning.
Mike DiMarzio and his son, Anthony, were the first fans waiting outside the stadium gates — they arrived at 9 p.m. Thursday night, traveling all the way from Biloxi, Mississippi.
"We drove 14 hours to get here, and we're here for all four home games," he said.
With standing-room-only tickets, they're hoping to nab the best spots at the rail behind home plate.
"This is a father-and-son thing, you know?" said DiMarzio. "A lot of fathers and sons go fishing, golfing, whatever they do, but baseball is our thing."
Behind them, Chris Lippart and his wife were the third and fourth fans to arrive at the gate — wearing a lanyard holding a photo of Lippart's grandfather.
"He took me to my first game when I was about 10 years old, and he never got to see a series, so we're watching this with him," he explained.
Cars lined up along the parking lots throughout the morning, with some fans hosting pre-tailgates before the lots officially opened, keeping busy with games, snacks and beer.
"Everybody needs to have a good time, enjoy it and savor every moment," said Keith Hammett of Muskego.
His tailgate group said they even welcome Tampa Bay fans to join in on the special Brewers tailgate experience.
"If you don't know anybody, come and join us. You're always welcome to brats, food, whatever we have, we'll share, including bourbon," he offered.