On Saturday, June 8th, Guinness Nigeria, through one of the best-selling international gin brands, Gordon’s, hosted its 2nd edition of Gordon’s Playground – a vibrant invite-only soiree for gin lovers. This anticipated event came alive at Amore Gardens, Lekki, Lagos, to mark World Gin Day.
Introduced in 2022, Gordon’s Playground is a playfully curated experience for G&T enthusiasts and social butterflies to reconnect and make new connections. The Gordon’s Playground once again captivated attendees with an elevated experience, featuring playful installations, interactive games, Gordon’s-infused treats, and a collection of G&T cocktails.
The Playground saw Gordon’s unveil its new Gordon’s Pink Berry & Tonic Premix to hundreds of guests, an innovation offering a first-of-a-kind G&T drinking experience in this market. This further highlights Gordon’s dedication to elevating the cocktail culture.
The evening featured electrifying performances by Alternate Sounds, SimsstheDj, Hanni and Wandi, M.I.A, and Tolu Daniels, keeping the crowd dancing and energized throughout the night.
Uche Onwudiwe, Marketing Manager Mainstream Spirits & RTD, Guinness Nigeria, shared his thoughts on the event, stating,
Gordon’s Playground is more than just a celebration of our gin. It’s a testament to our commitment to creating memorable experiences and nurturing Nigeria’s vibrant cocktail culture.
Our new Gordon’s Pink Berry & Tonic Premix reinforces our dedication to pushing the boundaries on G&T enjoyment and leading the Gin category.
Gordon’s Playground 2024 was a testament to the brand’s legacy of exceptional quality and innovation. Gordon’s maintains a strong presence in the world of spirits, delighting gin enthusiasts and influencing trends in cocktail creation.
To stay updated on future Gordon’s experiences, follow @gordonsmoringa on Instagram and keep an eye out for the hashtag #ShallWe on social media.
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<img src="https://www.mtlblog.com/media-library/a-quaint-church-in-montebello-surrounded-by-holiday-lights-right-a-cozy-christmas-store-in-montebello.jpg?id=54185451&width=1200&height=800&coordinates=96%2C0%2C96%2C0"/><br/><br/><p>If you're looking for a cozy winter escape just a <a href="https://www.mtlblog.com/muskoka-home-of-the-stars-road-trip-from-montreal">short road trip from Montreal</a>, add this quaint spot to your bucket list. This <a href="https://www.mtlblog.com/almonte-christmas-village-near-montreal-hallmark-movie">tiny village feels like it's straight out of a snow globe</a>, with the perfect mix of <a href="https://www.mtlblog.com/visit-quebec-city-from-montreal-during-fall">small-town charm</a> and fun things to do, especially during winter. </p><p><a href="https://www.mtlblog.com/worlds-largest-log-cabin-montreal-like-nordic-village" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Montebello, Quebec</a>, is located just under two hours from Montreal. It's close enough to make it a day trip, but once you're there, you'll probably want to stay a night or two and soak in the charm of it all.</p><p>From November 29 to December 1, and then from December 6 to 8, you'll be able to catch the annual <a href="https://www.noelmontebello.ca">Montebello Christmas Market</a>, also known as Marché de Noël de Montebello.</p><p>Inspired by <a href="https://www.mtlblog.com/enchanted-alley-montreal-european-christmas-vibes">Europe's iconic Christmas markets</a>, this "enchanting universe" is nestled in the heart of the village, outside of the central historic church building. You'll be able to sip hot chocolate, marvel at the glittering garlands and festive decor, and browse for unique gifts and sweet treats from almost 50 vendors. <br/></p><p>There's also live entertainment, photo stops and Santa's cabin.</p><blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/C1Pkq2wPPQF/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==" data-instgrm-version="4" style="background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:658px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);">
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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/C1Pkq2wPPQF/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_top" rel="noopener">See on Instagram</a>
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</blockquote><script async="" defer="" src="//platform.instagram.com/en_US/embeds.js"></script><p><span></span>This cozy village, which has a population of under 1,000 people, is probably best known for Parc Omega, a nearby safari park where you can drive along and spot Canadian wildlife up close. </p><p>You can see animals like wolves, bison, and elk while staying cozy in your car. Winter is an especially magical time to visit, as the snow adds an extra layer of charm and the animals can be spotted frolicking in the slush.</p><p>The deer are known to wander right up to car windows, especially if you come prepared with carrots to feed them. And, if you feel like getting out of the car for a bit, Parc Omega also has walking trails and picnic areas, where you can really soak up the winter scenery.<br/></p><blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/CZ_kkFiMvfy/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==" data-instgrm-version="4" style="background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:658px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);">
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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CZ_kkFiMvfy/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_top" rel="noopener">See on Instagram</a>
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</blockquote><script async="" defer="" src="//platform.instagram.com/en_US/embeds.js"></script><p>For a taste of history and luxury, the Fairmont Le Château Montebello is an absolute must-visit. Considered <a href="https://www.mtlblog.com/worlds-largest-log-cabin-montreal-like-nordic-village">the world's largest log cabin</a>, this spot is every bit as Canadian as it is cozy.</p><p>Inside, there's a huge, six-sided stone fireplace in the centre of the lobby that's perfect for warming up with a hot chocolate or cocktail. </p><p>If you're staying overnight, you'll get to experience the full range of cozy amenities, from an indoor pool to cross-country ski trails. The hotel's spa also offers treatments, so you can unwind with a massage or facial after a day out in the cold.</p><blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/C6Ob-Wfgl_-/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link" data-instgrm-version="4" style="background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:658px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);">
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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/C6Ob-Wfgl_-/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_top" rel="noopener">See on Instagram</a>
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</blockquote><script async="" defer="" src="//platform.instagram.com/en_US/embeds.js"></script><p>If you're up for exploring more of the village, head to the Manoir Papineau National Historic Site, another local Montebello gem. The manor is a beautiful old estate that belonged to Louis-Joseph Papineau, a famous 19th-century politician. In winter, the grounds are often covered in snow, and you can soak up the beauty of the estate with a stroll or a snowshoe adventure.</p><p>For a taste of Montebello's local flavours, don't miss Fromagerie Montebello, a favourite spot for cheese lovers. If you want to pair your snacks with a tasty drink, craft brewery Microbrasserie Les Brasseurs de Montebello serves up delicious local brews with a variety of rotating flavours.</p><blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/C5cVIAMAAyW/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link" data-instgrm-version="4" style="background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:658px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);">
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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/C5cVIAMAAyW/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_top" rel="noopener">See on Instagram</a>
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</blockquote><script async="" defer="" src="//platform.instagram.com/en_US/embeds.js"></script><p>Finally, Montebello's small shops and cafés are worth a visit, too. Many of the local stores feature artisanal products, so you can find unique Quebec-made items like handcrafted mittens, locally sourced maple syrup, or cozy wool scarves. </p><p>Plus, the village looks especially magical when it's blanketed in snow, with holiday lights twinkling along the streets. It's like walking through a real-life Christmas village.</p><h3>Montebello Christmas markets</h3><br/><blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/CltPiQ8gEqy/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link" data-instgrm-version="4" style="background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:658px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);">
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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CltPiQ8gEqy/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_top" rel="noopener">See on Instagram</a>
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</blockquote><script async="" defer="" src="//platform.instagram.com/en_US/embeds.js"></script><p>Price: Free entry</p><p>When: November 29 to December 1, and December 6 to 8, 2024</p><p>Address: Montebello, QC</p><p>Why You Need To Go: Whether you visit for a day or stretch it into a full weekend, this charming Quebec village has everything you need for a cozy, festive winter escape just a quick drive from Montreal.</p><p><a href="https://www.noelmontebello.ca" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Montebello Christmas market website</a></p><p><em>Before you get going, check out our <a href="https://www.mtlblog.com/responsible-travel-guidelines" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Responsible Travel Guide</a> so you can be informed, be safe, be smart, and most of all, be respectful on your trip.</em></p>