Paris Drinks Festival Thrives in New Venue: Two Rivers Stadium

By Chris Whelan

The annual Paris Drinks Festival, a cherished gathering that unites music enthusiasts and beverage connoisseurs alike, underwent a notable transformation this year as it sought refuge in the welcoming embrace of the Two Rivers Stadium, strategically positioned just behind the bustling Syl Apps Community Centre. This relocation was an unexpected twist brought about by the unrelenting deluge that saturated the County of Brant in the days leading up to the event, rendering the usual venue, Lions Park Paris, waterlogged and inaccessible.

As a seasoned reporter who had the pleasure of immersing myself in the festivities at Lions Park during the previous years, I approached this year’s festival with a blend of wistfulness and intrigue. Lions Park, with its verdant foliage and tranquil ambiance, held a special allure a hidden gem that seemed to be privy only to those fortunate enough to attend.

Venturing into the expansive grounds of the Two Rivers Stadium on the festival’s second day, my initial skepticism lingered in the back of my mind. Could this new locale capture the ethereal magic that had defined the festival at Lions Park?

Stepping through the gates on that vibrant Saturday, any doubts I harbored dissipated like morning mist as the vastness and openness of the venue unfolded before me The sprawling space behind Syl Apps’ Community Centre revealed itself as a canvas waiting to be painted with the hues of festivity, transforming into an atmosphere that not only rivaled but perhaps even surpassed the charm of the beloved Lions Park.

As the throngs of festival-goers flooded in and the stadium began to hum with anticipation, the melodic strains of live music reverberated through the air. It became increasingly apparent that, despite the change in scenery, the core essence of the Paris Drinks Festival endured unscathed. The spirit of camaraderie, the euphoria of live music, and the jubilation of savoring exquisite beverages persisted, weaving a tapestry of celebration that affirmed the festival's enduring appeal and unwavering magic

In a year marked by change and adaptation, the Paris Drinks Festival stood as a testament to resilience, demonstrating that while venues may shift and circumstances may evolve, the spirit of community and the joy of shared experiences remain timeless and unwavering