Once upon a time, in the picturesque town of Armentières, France, there was a brewery called Motte Cordonnier. Here, not only was the finest beer in the region brewed, but also a story was born that would be told for generations. The brewery was home to a hardworking brewer, Pierre, and his lively and adventurous wife, Lili-Anne. While Pierre spent the day and the night in the brewhouse, Lili-Anne found entertainment by the male staff of the brewery.

The Story of

the Children of the Motte Cordonnier Brewery

Omer

Oneiro is the dreamer of the family. He has an insatiable hunger for worlds beyond reality. Always searching for stories, myths and fantasies, he creates immersive experiences that others can fully immerse themselves in. He sees life as a canvas for the imagination. Oneiro has long, wavy silver hair that seems to glisten in the moonlight. His eyes are deep blue, as if reflecting the starry sky. He wears loose, pastel-colored robes, dotted with subtle star motifs. He is fascinated by literature, theatre and virtual reality. He builds immersive rooms in the brewery where visitors can escape to other worlds, from magical castles to distant galaxies. His name originates from Oneiro (♂) – Escapism in Greek is Oneiro or "Dream".

Sarah

Saraswati is the wisest, the inquisitive and the mentor of the group. She is always looking for ways to enrich herself and others with knowledge and art. For her, enrichment is the key to a fulfilled life. Saraswati has long, shiny black hair that cascades down her back. Her eyes are bright green, piercing and curious. She wears silk scarves and dresses in earth tones, with delicate embroidery of lotus flowers. She enjoys painting, music, and science. Her corner of the brewery is a library and art studio where visitors can learn new skills and find inspiration. Saraswati (♀) means Enrichment and in Hindi 'Saraswati' is known as "Wisdom"

The Five Children

Louis

Ludi is the cheerful, outgoing soul who brings joy wherever he goes. He lives for laughter, playing, and throwing grand parties. His motto is simple: life is a party, and everyone is invited. Ludi has shiny golden blond hair and a sparkling smile. His eyes sparkle amber, like liquid gold. He wears colorful, extravagant outfits full of glitter and feathers, as if he is always ready for a carnival. He enjoys music, dancing and games. Ludi runs the arcade and party area of the brewery, which hosts karaoke nights, dance contests and interactive shows. His name comes form Ludi (♂) -Entertainment in Roman is Ludi or "Game"

Nicole

Nike is the athletic powerhouse of the group. She is driven, competitive, and determined to get everyone moving. For her, physical activity is not just a way to stay fit, but a path of self-discipline and victory. Nike has a muscular, athletic build. Her short, dark hair is always tied back. Her skin glows as if she is constantly working out in the sun. She wears simple, functional sportswear in red and black. She loves climbing, ninja courses and extreme sports. She created a sports arena in the brewery where visitors can challenge themselves and push their limits. Her name finds origin in Nike (♀) --Exercise in Greekis related to Nike and "Victory"

Mary

Ma'at is the connecting link, the philosopher of the group. She believes in community, justice, and creating a better world. She encourages everyone to get involved and work together. Ma'at has dark, braided hair, decorated with golden beads and ribbons. Her eyes are deep brown and radiate warmth and wisdom. She wears long, flowing robes with geometric patterns. She organizes debate nights, workshops and collaborative projects. Her space in the brewery is a place where visitors can learn, share and build a better future. Ma'at (♀) equals Engagement. In Egyptian 'Ma'at' means "Justice"

From these escapades came five children, each unique and filled with a special energy. They were named after the essences that guided their lives: Escapism, Entertainment, Exercise, Engagement and Enrichment.Together, these children created a magical world of endless fun and entertainment, a place where everyone could find something to make their heart beat faster.

The Place of Endless Pleasure

The five children combined their strengths to transform the brewery into a magical place where everyone was welcome. It became a place where you could escape reality, laugh until your stomach hurts, push your physical boundaries, make meaningful connections and enrich your mind. Together they created a world where fun and meaning went hand in hand.

The brewery became a point of attraction where all kinds of people, young and old, whole families, came with pleasure and returned again and again. Party after party, visitors discovered something new or met like-minded people. The magic and variety of the place made it an unforgettable experience.

The Secret of Baccanalis

In 2015, during excavation and demolition works by the new owners, ancient manuscripts were found under one of the copper kettles in the brewery. This voluminous tome, entitled "Works of Pleasure", contained detailed descriptions of the legendary parties that were once held there. These parties, known as "Baccanalis", were organised by Baccus, the brewery's master recipe keeper. Baccus had meticulously recorded how these parties were organised down to the smallest detail, from the music and decorations to the unique drinks and activities.

In 2025, these manuscripts form the basis for and give name of the Place of Endless Pleasure: Baccanalis. The brewery has been reborn as a place where the spirit of the old festivities lives on, a place where visitors come together to celebrate, discover and create memories that will last a lifetime.

The brewery has been brought back to life as a place where the spirit of the old celebrations lives on, a place where visitors come together to celebrate, discover and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Celebrate Live

The Cycles of Brewing and Feasting

The Motte Cordonnier brewery was not only about making exceptional beer, but also about celebrating life in all its seasons. The cycles of the brewing process were closely linked to the rhythms of nature. Each season brought a unique atmosphere, which was reflected in the work and celebrations that brought the community together.

The Winter: Warmth and Gathering

During the cold months, the beer was stored to mature, and the brewery became a haven for the community. Large open fires warmed the halls, and indoor activities brought people together.

The Midwinter Bonfire.

People gathered around a giant fire to tell stories, drink warm beers and enjoy winter food.

A Christmas market in the brewery garden, ice skating on the frozen river or small pond, and performances by Christmas choirs.

The Summer: Warmth and Water Fun

During the summer months, the grains were harvested and the brewing process began in full swing. The hot days were relieved by the refreshment of the nearby Lys river. Here, the brewery children organised water games, picnics and open-air concerts.

The Cooling Bacchanalia.

Large beer barrels were brought to the river side, filled with ice-cold drinks. Partygoers enjoyed boat racing and dancing under the starry sky.

Beer tastings and summer barbecues featuring locally grown ingredients.

The Fall: Harvest and Abundance

Autumn marked the most important time for the brewery: the harvest of barley and hops. It was a time of gratitude and abundance, where hard work was rewarded. The brewery organized big harvest festivals whereby everyone was welcome.

The Festival of Abundance.

Long tables were filled with regional dishes, and new beers were tasted for the first time. Music and dancing lasted until late into the night.

Educational tours of the brewery and field, and workshops where visitors could learn how beer was made.

The Spring: Spring Fever and New Lives

Spring was the beginning of a new brewing season. After the silent winter, nature began to come back to life. The first barley seeds were sown and the hop plants sprouted. This was a time of hope and expectation, and this was celebrated with playful parties full of music, flower wreaths and light, fresh beers.

The Festival of Revival.

Visitors enjoyed spring butterflies in the brewery gardens, where children participated in treasure hunts and adults toasted with seasonal beers.

Workshops on plants and brewing spring beers, and performances by troubadours.

Historical Events

Shelter during the Wars

During the First and Second World Wars, the brewery played a crucial role in the resistance. The deep cellars and hidden spaces under the copper kettles were used as hiding places for resistance fighters. Secret meetings were held here, and plans were made to sabotage enemy troops.

  • 1914-1918: The brewery was temporarily closed, but the boilers remained intact. Resistance fighters used this space to do your shopping to give.

  • 1940-1945: The brewery again became a refuge, storing food and medicine for the local population.

The History of the Brewery and Festivals

1670 - Founding of the Motte Cordonnier brewery.

1750 - First Spring Festival organized.

1914-1918 - Use of the brewery as a shelter during WWI.

1920-1940 - The festivities flourished, with visitors from all over France.

1940-1945 - The brewery as a centre of resistance during WWII.

2015 - Discovery of "Works of Pleasure" among the copper kettles.

2025 - Re-establishment of the brewery as Baccanalis, Place of Endless Pleasure.

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The Modern Baccanalis

With the rediscovery of the manuscripts in 2015, the brewery has been revived as a place where tradition and modernity meet.

Seasonal celebrations are revived, and new generations find inspiration, joy and community here.

Discover the Magic Within

Step into a realm of enchantment, where vibrant festival scenes and glowing manuscripts create an immersive atmosphere that captivates the senses and invites exploration of the extraordinary.

An immersive digital art installation features an illuminated floor with aquatic imagery, including a large digital representation of a marine animal. Several people are interacting with the space, walking on the projection. Above, a cascade of lights or thin strands descends from the ceiling, creating a sense of depth and fluidity in the ambient lighting.
An immersive digital art installation features an illuminated floor with aquatic imagery, including a large digital representation of a marine animal. Several people are interacting with the space, walking on the projection. Above, a cascade of lights or thin strands descends from the ceiling, creating a sense of depth and fluidity in the ambient lighting.
The Legend Awaits
Five Siblings' Tale

Unravel the captivating story of the five siblings, each representing a unique realm, as their mystical journey unfolds, inviting you to experience the magic and wonder of Baccanalis.

Mystical Gallery Oneiro

Explore enchanting visuals of our magical immersive atmosphere and experiences.

A vibrant and immersive digital art installation with bright, colorful light projections resembling flowers and abstract patterns covering the walls and floor. People are interacting with the environment, some sitting and others standing or walking around, creating an interactive and dynamic atmosphere.
A vibrant and immersive digital art installation with bright, colorful light projections resembling flowers and abstract patterns covering the walls and floor. People are interacting with the environment, some sitting and others standing or walking around, creating an interactive and dynamic atmosphere.
A vibrant, colorful outdoor event at night features a large, elaborate stage with giant mythical female figures and intricate designs. Bright lasers and fireworks light up the sky, while smoke and whimsical, fantastical elements enhance the scene. A lively crowd of people is visible in the foreground, capturing the spectacle on their phones.
A vibrant, colorful outdoor event at night features a large, elaborate stage with giant mythical female figures and intricate designs. Bright lasers and fireworks light up the sky, while smoke and whimsical, fantastical elements enhance the scene. A lively crowd of people is visible in the foreground, capturing the spectacle on their phones.
A dark outdoor setting is illuminated by vibrant, colorful light installations resembling stylized plants or feathers, primarily in red and purple. In the distance, bright, spherical light displays are visible, adding to the festive atmosphere. Several people can be seen walking along a pathway bordered by these lights, creating a magical and enchanting scene.
A dark outdoor setting is illuminated by vibrant, colorful light installations resembling stylized plants or feathers, primarily in red and purple. In the distance, bright, spherical light displays are visible, adding to the festive atmosphere. Several people can be seen walking along a pathway bordered by these lights, creating a magical and enchanting scene.
A vibrant display of colorful lights illuminates a forest setting at night. Neon hues of green, blue, red, and purple wrap around trees and foliage, creating a magical atmosphere. A sign reading 'The Magic Forest' is prominently featured, surrounded by glowing lights. Silhouetted figures are visible, walking through the scene.
A vibrant display of colorful lights illuminates a forest setting at night. Neon hues of green, blue, red, and purple wrap around trees and foliage, creating a magical atmosphere. A sign reading 'The Magic Forest' is prominently featured, surrounded by glowing lights. Silhouetted figures are visible, walking through the scene.