Appleton Estate hosts inaugural Games Night at Hope Gardens with Pepsi and Ocean Spray

KINGSTON, Jamaica — Appleton Estate has rolled out a new consumer experience, staging its debut Games Night at Hope Gardens alongside Ocean Spray and Pepsi.

A company release said the private, all-inclusive gathering took place at The Pavilion at Hope Gardens on July 14. The programme mixed hands-on games, signature drinks, meals and live entertainment, giving patrons a novel route into the well-known Jamaican rum label.

Attendees took on oversized tic-tac-toe, mini golf and ring toss while sipping Appleton Estate mixed drinks built with Pepsi and Ocean Spray ingredients. Chilitos handled the food service.

Dominic Bell, Communications Manager at Appleton Estate, said the format aimed to deepen how the brand relates to its audience.

“Appleton Estate Games Night was created as a fresh and engaging way for us to connect with consumers beyond traditional brand experiences,” Bell said. “The vision, which was brought to life with the help of our friends at Pepsi and Ocean Spray, was to bring people together through the universal enjoyment of friendly competition, social connection and great conversations while showcasing the warmth, authenticity and premium character of Appleton Estate.”

“We wanted to create an environment where friends could unwind, interact and make lasting memories over exceptional Jamaican rum, reflecting the spirit of togetherness that has always been at the heart of the Appleton Estate brand,” he added.

The release also cast the night as proof of the firm’s push to back home-grown occasions that honour Jamaican culture and tighten ties with drinkers.

“For Appleton Estate, Jamaica is more than our place of origin, it is our foundation, our inspiration and a key part of our identity,” Bell explained. “Investing in local experiences allows us to celebrate and give back to the communities that have shaped our success while creating meaningful opportunities for consumers to engage with the brand in an authentic way.”

“These experiences help foster cultural pride, strengthen local connections and ensure that our global success continues to be grounded in the people, traditions and vibrant spirit of Jamaica.”

Among the evening’s standouts for Bell was watching visitors mingle and bond.

“The most rewarding aspect has been seeing people genuinely connect and enjoy themselves,” he said. “From friends sharing laughs over a game to consumers discovering new ways to experience the brand, the energy throughout the evening was incredible. Watching guests embrace the atmosphere exactly as we envisioned it—relaxed, engaging and distinctly Appleton Estate, was extremely gratifying.”

Warm reception to the first edition has already sparked talk of repeating the format, the release stated.

“We are incredibly encouraged by the response to the first staging of Appleton Estate Games Night,” Bell noted. “The strong turnout and positive feedback demonstrate that consumers are seeking unique and interactive experiences that blend entertainment, community and premium hospitality.”

“The feedback, which is also shared by the team at Pepsi and Ocean Spray, has resulted in us now evaluating future plans. The success of this first event certainly gives us confidence to explore additional editions and opportunities to evolve the concept.”

He said the brand plans to keep building immersive outings that spotlight Jamaican rum’s craft, legacy and range of uses.

“Appleton Estate remains committed to delivering innovative experiences that allow consumers to engage with the brand in deeper and more meaningful ways,” Bell said. “Moving forward, consumers can expect a continued focus on immersive events, premium tastings, cultural celebrations and experiences that highlight the craftsmanship, heritage and versatility of Appleton Estate Jamaica Rum. We will continue to explore creative platforms that bring people together while celebrating the authenticity, excellence and Jamaican spirit that define the Appleton Estate brand.”