On April 28th and 29th, 2023, TukTuk Wine & Dine celebrated its fifth anniversary with the grandest celebration in its history. Over the years, we’ve grown not just as a business, but as a family, and this milestone brought together all the people who have been part of our journey. The celebration had four key parts: a Holy Mass, a staff appreciation event, a lively Day 1 celebration, and an unforgettable Day 2 which was the main event. Here’s a look back at the memorable two days that marked our fifth anniversary.
A spiritual start
The fifth anniversary of TukTuk Wine & Dine began in a profound and spiritual way, with a Holy Mass held at St. Sylvester’s Church, Ethukala. This was not just a symbolic gesture, but a meaningful act of unity, bringing together the entire TukTuk family, and their loved ones, for a moment of collective gratitude. The Mass served as a beautiful reflection of the core values that have shaped TukTuk since its beginning: community, respect, and togetherness.
The Mass was a chance for everyone involved in TukTuk’s journey to come together, as one family. It was a moment to reflect on the milestones we’ve achieved and to give thanks for the guidance and blessings that have helped us along the way. The presence of family members added a deeply personal touch, reminding us of the support and love from those closest to us.
The gathering at the church highlighted that TukTuk’s success isn’t just built on business acumen or hard work, but also on the strong moral foundation and shared values that bind the team together. As we all stood together in prayer, it was clear that this event was about much more than just celebrating an anniversary. It was about honoring the relationships we’ve built, the community we’ve created, and the blessings that have helped us get to this milestone.
Celebrating Loyalty
The Staff Appreciation morning was one of the most meaningful moments in our fifth anniversary celebration. It wasn’t just about the awards and speeches, but about creating a space where the entire TukTuk family from all departments could come together in a more personal setting to reflect on our journey. The day started with a heartfelt thank-you to the employees who have been with us since day one—Nisal, Niroshan, Marvan, and Kelum. These four incredible team members were honored with a specially minted gold coin featuring the TukTuk Wine & Dine logo, a symbol of their unwavering dedication over the last five years. Their loyalty and contribution have been crucial to our success, and this was our way of expressing deep appreciation.
Following this, every other employee was recognized with certificates of appreciation, ensuring that no contribution went unnoticed. It was important for us to acknowledge not just longevity, but the day-to-day efforts of our entire team that make TukTuk Wine & Dine a welcoming place for both guests and staff alike. Speeches from the owners and managers were filled with stories, gratitude, and even a few emotional moments, as we reflected on the growth of TukTuk over the years. The recognition event was not only a moment to look back at the past but also to look forward to all that we can achieve together in the future.
But it wasn’t all speeches and awards, the celebration continued with a feast that truly brought everyone together. We had set up a special breakfast table, filled with a diverse spread of food to cater to all tastes. The traditional Sri Lankan food like Milk-rice and Lunu Miris, a staple at celebratory events, sat alongside a Western-style offering, with the star of the table being the unique anniversary pizza. The combination of local favorites and modern dishes symbolized the fusion of cultures and ideas that make TukTuk Wine & Dine a special place. This breakfast wasn’t just about eating, it was about breaking bread together, connecting on a deeper level, and celebrating the family-like atmosphere that we’ve cultivated over the years.
As we all sat together the TukTuk staff, and even a few in-house guests who joined the celebration, there was a sense of unity that filled the room. The anniversary cake was cut, and laughter and conversations filled the space, creating an unforgettable atmosphere of warmth and friendship. This morning was a true testament to the fact that TukTuk’s success is not just measured by numbers or business achievements, but by the community we’ve built within our walls.
The Staff Appreciation morning was a powerful reminder that TukTuk Wine & Dine is more than just a dining and entertainment venue. It’s a place where employees are valued, where guests feel like family, and where every contribution is recognized. This event was a way for us to give back to the people who have given us so much in our incredible team. As we move forward, this spirit of appreciation and unity will continue to be the foundation of everything we do at TukTuk Wine & Dine.
Day 1 Celebration: Tunes and Talent
The evening of April 28th marked the beginning of TukTuk Wine & Dine’s two-day fifth anniversary celebration, and what better way to kick things off than with a night filled with music, laughter, and old friends? Day 1 was designed to set the stage for the grand event on the following day, and it did so perfectly. The celebration was a reflection of the vibrant atmosphere that has come to define TukTuk Wine & Dine, with music at its heart and a lively crowd to match. This evening was all about honoring the artists and performers who have been a part of TukTuk’s journey, making it a night to remember.
The headliners for the night were none other than Trippin’, an emerging band that has become something of a fixture at TukTuk. Trippin’ has been performing at TukTuk since the very beginning, making them an integral part of our story. Their performance on this special evening was energetic, soulful, and full of the familiar tunes that our regular patrons have come to love. The band’s ability to engage the audience and create an intimate atmosphere made the night feel like a reunion of sorts, bringing back fond memories of the early days of TukTuk.
Adding to the magic of the evening were three incredibly talented guest artists—Sachintha Pulasthi, Tharindu Nirmana, and Lakshan Perera. Sachintha, who has graced the TukTuk stage multiple times, once again delivered a stunning performance, reminding everyone why he is one of the most beloved artists in our lineup. His set was filled with emotion, blending traditional Sri Lankan sounds with modern influences, a style that has always resonated with our audience. Tharindu Nirmana and Lakshan Perera, two rising stars in the music scene, each brought their unique styles to the stage, adding depth and variety to the evening’s lineup. Lakshan, who began his musical journey as a solo singer, has since grown into an accomplished performer. Over time, he formed his own band, 90s Kids, and established himself as a guitar and singing instructor with his own academy, Guitar Circle. Lakshan’s smooth vocals and Tharindu’s lively energy kept the crowd buzzing, ensuring that the celebration was filled with non-stop entertainment.
As the music played on and the night progressed, the courtyard of TukTuk Wine & Dine was alive with energy. Guests danced, sang along, and enjoyed the vibrant ambiance, making the first day of the anniversary celebration feel like a joyous homecoming. The outdoor setting was adorned with soft lights, and the mild April weather added to the charm of the evening. With great music and an enthusiastic crowd, Day 1 of our anniversary celebration was the perfect prelude to what was to come.
The Grand Finale
April 29th, the second and final day of our fifth anniversary celebration, marked the pinnacle of the festivities at TukTuk Wine & Dine. This night was filled with excitement, live performances, and an unforgettable surprise that made it one of the most significant events in our history. It was a night that celebrated the vibrant musical culture we’ve cultivated and brought everyone together for a celebration that will be remembered for years to come.
The spotlight of the night was on the band Lunu Dehi, who performed their second-ever startup gig. It was also their very first time playing at TukTuk, making this event a major milestone for both the band and us. Their fresh, dynamic sound—a mix of rock, reggae, and Sri Lankan influences—set the stage for an electrifying evening. The crowd instantly connected with their energy, and their performance resonated deeply with both long-time fans and new listeners alike. From original compositions to unexpected covers, Lunu Dehi’s setlist was a blend of infectious rhythms and soulful melodies, keeping the crowd engaged and dancing throughout the night.
In addition to Lunu Dehi’s electrifying performance, the legendary Jaya Sri brothers made a special guest appearance. Their performance elevated the night to another level, as they captivated the audience with their signature fusion of rock and reggae, blending modern and traditional sounds. The Jaya Sri brothers have always been a crowd favorite, and their connection to the TukTuk audience was clear as they performed their most-loved hits. Their presence added an air of celebration and legacy to the event, symbolizing the continuity of great music at TukTuk.
However, the biggest surprise of the night came a few minutes before the midnight. The iconic Piyal Perera and his band, the Gypsies, made an unannounced appearance, much to the delight of the crowd. Even we at TukTuk were caught off guard by their arrival, as they joined the stage to surprise Lunu Dehi and celebrate the band’s growing success. Piyal Perera’s arrival was a monumental moment, as the Gypsies, a legendary band in Sri Lankan music, had come to wish Lunu Dehi well in their musical journey. The excitement in the room was palpable, and the crowd erupted into cheers as Piyal and his band performed a few of their classic hits.
This surprise appearance turned the night into a historic moment. As Lunu Dehi and the Gypsies shared the stage, it symbolized a passing of the torch between generations of Sri Lankan musicians. The spontaneous jam session between the two bands was a once-in-a-lifetime experience, leaving the audience mesmerized by the fusion of their talents. The magic of this collaboration, happening in real-time, took the night to new heights and made the anniversary celebration feel like an exclusive and extraordinary event.
As the clock struck midnight, the energy in the room continued to build, with guests dancing, singing, and soaking in the once-in-a-lifetime atmosphere. The music didn’t stop, and the party carried on late into the night, with the crowd reveling in the afterglow of an unforgettable celebration. The surprise visit from Piyal Perera and the Gypsies was the perfect capstone to an evening that had already been filled with exceptional performances, creating a memorable highlight that none of us will ever forget.
Our fifth anniversary was a testament to the relationships we’ve built, the music that fills our space, and the incredible support of our staff and guests. It’s been five incredible years, and we’re excited to continue this journey with you all by our side. Here’s to many more anniversaries filled with music, laughter, and togetherness at TukTuk Wine & Dine!