International Gin & Tonic Day

The International Gin & Tonic Day, observed every year on October 19, is a cheerful celebration of one of the world’s most beloved cocktails. It was established in 2012 in honor of Mary Edith Keyburn, who passed away on October 19, 2010, with a gin and tonic at her side, the drink having been smuggled into her hospital room in a water bottle.

History of International Gin & Tonic Day

The story begins with Mary Edith Keyburn, a devoted fan of the gin and tonic. In her final days, her family went to the trouble of smuggling her favorite tipple into her hospital room, disguising it in a water bottle and serving it in a teacup. After her passing on October 19, 2010, her granddaughter (Jayne Withers) and family sought to honor her memory by creating a day devoted to her favorite drink. By 2012, with social media and community enthusiasm, International Gin & Tonic Day had become an annual observance. ¹

Although the gin and tonic cocktail itself has much older roots, especially in colonial India, the formal observance is relatively recent. Over time the day gained global traction, with participants from many countries toasting the drink in Keyburn’s memory and celebrating the spirit’s craft and culture.

Why is International Gin & Tonic Day important?

On the surface, this day offers a lighthearted excuse to eenjoy—responsibly—aclassic cocktail. But its deeper meaning resides in how people connect over shared traditions, memories, and tastes. Commemorating Mary Edith Keyburn via her favorite drink humanizes the holiday: it reminds us that behind many celebrations lie personal stories, and that joy—however simple—can be a meaningful tribute.

Moreover, Gin & Tonic Day provides a platform to spotlight the heritage, craftsmanship, and innovation of gin and tonic producers worldwide. The cocktail itself is emblematic: a blend of function and delight, combining the medicinal origins of quinine with the botanical artistry of gin. Raising a glass on OOctober 19becomes a moment to appreciate that fusion of science, history, and flavor.

Here are some reflections on why this day matters:

• It honors a real person and her love of a simple pleasure.
• It encourages community and shared moments, whether online or in person.
• It brings attention to gin distillers and tonic producers, especially smaller and craft ones.
• It connects cocktail culture with personal memory and storytelling.
• It invites people to explore variations—botanical garnishes, new flavor profiles.

How to Celebrate International Gin & Tonic Day

Celebrating this day can be as low-key or as festive as you like. You might invite friends over for a small G&T gathering, where everyone brings a gin or tonic variant to sample. It makes for an easy, convivial evening. Or you could take the occasion to visit a local cocktail bar, order a special G&T, and chat with the bartender about the botanicals or the tonic brand.

If you prefer staying in, try experimenting with one or two small tweaks: use a different citrus peel, a herb sprig, or a flavored tonic. Small changes can reveal new dimensions of the drink. You might also document the eexperience—takephotos, post them with the hashtag #InternationalGinAndTonicDay, and share with the global community. Many bars and distilleries run promotions or special events on October 19, so checking what’s happening locally can add extra flavor to your celebration.

Here are some modest, fun ideas:

• Mix up a classic gin & tonic using your favorite gin and tonic water
• Try a twist: add an herb (mint, basil), a spice (peppercorn, cardamom), or an unusual garnish
• Host a small tasting with friends, comparing two or three gin‑tonic variations
• Share your drink photos and stories on social media with others celebrating
• Visit a bar or distillery that offers a special G&T menu or event.

International Gin & Tonic Day Date Table

1. https://www.theginguide.com/international-gin-and-tonic-day.html[↩]