'It's nice and refreshing': Fairgoers celebrate International Beer Day

WEST ALLIS, Wis. (CBS 58) -- The first Friday in August is International Beer Day.

"On a hot day like this, it's nice and refreshing," Wisconsin State Fairgoer Jason Sheridan said.

With over 200 breweries, Wisconsin is known for its appreciation for the beverage, considered one of the oldest types of alcoholic drinks in the world.

"The thing I like about beer is it just makes every day better, it's delicious, it's good, and you can drink it with anything," Milwaukee resident Julie Cropp said.

"Our beer sales, actually, I'm surprised, are really, really doing well," Robert's Restaurant owner Robert Krause said about beer sales on Friday. "Nobody drinks like we do in Milwaukee."

Some love the beer the state is famous for, while others lean more toward creations from local breweries.

"I think the whole craft brew thing is excellent because it allows brewers to be creative and create different styles, and I really like that," Brookfield resident Larry Poquette said. "Now, the craft brewers are coming back, coming back where you have a lot of different breweries within the southeastern Wisconsin area, and I think that's fantastic."

For one Milwaukee woman, she loves all the activities in the Summer that highlight local brewers.

"I love the flavor; I love the taste. I love that I can taste local breweries and sample local flavors, and I love supporting our local businesses," Tammy Hart said. 

"I love going to the beer gardens where some of these beers are featured, and festivals such as Summerfest, State Fair, even Bastille Days have a lot of different specialty beers and stuff." 

No matter your preference, you are encouraged to enjoy it safely.

 "This is a great place to have a beer, but also responsibly, because this is a family thing. This is a place you can go and have a beer, walk around with your kids, and have a good time," Krause said.