The music was loud and the conversations were flowing as freely as the beer pouring from the taps into the glasses of the hundreds of people gathered around the Riverfront Amphitheater in Niles Friday evening.

“It’s exciting to have something to do close by that is fun,” said Carolee Dalrymple, of Galien, standing around a table with a few friends.

“We came out tonight when we normally wouldn’t,” said Maggie Drew, 35, of Niles. “It’s nice to have something for younger people to do. Usually you have to go to Three Oaks or New Buffalo or Sawyer.”

Friday’s first ever Craft Brew and Wine Festival, put on by the Four Flags Area Chamber of Commerce, drew a large crowd. By 5 p.m. (it started at 3 p.m.) parking spaces near Riverfront Park were difficult to come by.

People were packed elbow to elbow underneath a large tent in which 20 area breweries and wineries were serving their drinks.

Maggie’s husband, Brad, said he was impressed with the selection.

“For the first year out doing it I think it is really good,” he said. “It’s a good turnout.”

Four Flags Area Chamber of Commerce President Tyanna Weller said they sold approximately 700 tickets during the 6-hour event. She was hoping for 1,000 to help raise money for other chamber events.

“I think it turned out well. Everyone seemed to be having a good time,” she said, adding that they hope to bring it back next year.

Weller thanked the City of Niles, area businesses and volunteers that helped make it possible.