World Gin Day – June 13, 2026

World Gin Day
Categories:
Tags:
AppreciationCocktailLiquor
Where:
International
Date change rule:
2nd Saturday of June
Holiday emoji:
🍸

World Gin Day invites enthusiasts to celebrate the beloved spirit every second Saturday of June. Raise a glass, discover new brands, and mix up your favorite gin cocktails. Explore the rich history and diverse flavors of gin on this special day!

Want to sponsor World Gin Day? Learn how

Expected World Gin Day Deals

Gin lovers can anticipate a variety of promotions for World Gin Day 2026. History shows that major distillers like Bombay Sapphire, Hendrick’s Gin, and Tanqueray often partner with retailers and bars for special discounts on bottles and tasting events. Craft distilleries such as Aviation Gin and local establishments might offer limited-edition cocktails or happy hour specials. Look for deals on tonic waters from brands like Fever-Tree and cocktail kits from online retailers. We will update this page with confirmed live deals as June 13 approaches.

Platform Guide for World Gin Day

Instagram

Tag @nationaltoday_ and use #WorldGinDay. Share photos of your favorite gin cocktails, new bottles, or DIY gin infusions.

TikTok

Tag @www.nationaltoday.com and use #WorldGinDay. Film quick tutorials for classic gin drinks or review unique gin brands.

X/Twitter

Mention @NatlToday and use #WorldGinDay. Share interesting gin facts, distillery tours, or live-tweet from a gin tasting event.

Social Media Tips for World Gin Day

Individuals

Host a gin tasting party with friends, exploring different gin styles and botanicals. Experiment with homemade garnishes and unique tonic pairings.

Creators

Create engaging video content showcasing the versatility of gin, from classic G&Ts to innovative gin-based culinary creations or cocktail challenges.

Brands

Launch a limited-edition gin bottle or cocktail recipe. Run a social media contest asking followers to share their favorite gin moment for a chance to win a prize.

Top Brands for World Gin Day

  1. Bombay Sapphire

    Launched in 1987, Bombay Sapphire is a popular gin brand known for its distinctive blue bottle and vapor-infused distillation process. It uses ten botanicals from around the world to create its signature balanced flavor profile, making it a staple in many gin cocktails.

  2. Hendrick's Gin

    Distilled in Girvan, Scotland, Hendrick's Gin was launched in 1999 and is renowned for its unique infusion of rose and cucumber. This distinctive flavor profile sets it apart from traditional gins, making it a favorite for those seeking a refreshing and floral experience.

  3. Tanqueray

    Founded in 1830 by Charles Tanqueray in London, this iconic gin brand is celebrated for its bold, juniper-forward flavor. Tanqueray London Dry Gin remains a benchmark for quality and is a popular choice for classic gin cocktails worldwide.

  4. Gordon's Gin

    Established in 1769 by Alexander Gordon, Gordon's Gin is one of the oldest and most recognized gin brands globally. Its classic London Dry Gin recipe, featuring juniper berries, coriander seeds, and angelica root, has remained largely unchanged for over 250 years.

  5. Beefeater Gin

    Distilled in the heart of London since 1863, Beefeater Gin is one of the few major gin brands still produced in the city. Its recipe, created by James Burrough, includes nine botanicals and is known for its crisp, clean, and citrusy character, ideal for a variety of cocktails.

  6. Fever-Tree

    Founded in 2004, Fever-Tree specializes in premium mixers, including a wide range of tonic waters designed to complement high-quality spirits like gin. Their commitment to using natural ingredients and avoiding artificial sweeteners has made them a favorite among gin enthusiasts.

  7. The Gin Guild

    Established in 2012, The Gin Guild is an international gin industry body based in London. It promotes and protects the gin category, providing education and fostering excellence within the gin industry, from production to consumption.

World Gin Day Hero

Emma Stokes

Emma Stokes, also known as 'Gin Monkey,' is a prominent figure in the gin world and the current custodian of World Gin Day. She took over the organization of the day from its founder, Neil Houston, in 2013, expanding its reach and encouraging global participation. Stokes is celebrated for her passion for gin and her efforts to unite gin lovers worldwide through events, tastings, and educational initiatives.

History of World Gin Day

Gin is a distilled juniper-flavored alcohol enjoyed widely across the globe. The spirit was initially treated as a medicinal liquor and was made by European monks and alchemists in the process of creating aqua vita. The oldest record of gin goes back to juniper-surrounded Benedictine monasteries in southern Italy. Juniper was an essential part of doctors’ kits during the period. Doctors during the Bubonic Plague, for example, used to stuff the beaks of their plague masks with juniper to protect themselves from the Black Death. The earliest known written record of ‘jenever’ — traditional Dutch gin — was from the 13th-century encyclopedia “Der Naturen Bloeme.”

By the mid-17th century, Dutch and Flemish distilleries began selling gin as a treatment for kidney problems, lumbago, stomach ailments, gout, and gallstones. Gin was soon viewed as a substitute for brandy in England by the late 1600s. The liquor began increasing in popularity and by the 1720s, an estimated quarter of households in London were producing their own gin. This period came to be known as ‘the Gin Craze,’ wherein the British Parliament tried to pass a series of laws trying to curtail the mass consumption of gin.

Today, gin has seen a resurgence due to a rise in the popularity of mixology. Gin — usually containing a minimum of 40% alcohol — is easy to blend into cocktails. Popular alcoholic beverages include gin and tonic and martinis.

World Gin Day timeline

13th Century
‘Jenever’ is Mentioned

‘Jenever’ is mentioned for the first time.

16th Century
The First Junever Recipe

The first known recipe of ‘jenever’ is penned.

Mid-17th Century
Gin is Sold as Medicine

Dutch and Flemish distilleries sell gin as medicine.

1720s
The Gin Craze

Over a quarter of London’s households distill their gin.

World Gin Day FAQs

When is World Gin Day?

World Gin Day 2026 falls on Saturday, June 13, inviting gin enthusiasts globally to celebrate the versatile spirit. It’s the perfect weekend to explore new gins or revisit old favorites.

How popular is gin globally?

Gin continues to be a highly popular spirit worldwide, with global market revenue estimated to be in the tens of billions of dollars. Its versatility in cocktails and the rise of craft distilleries contribute to its enduring appeal.

What are the main types of gin?

The main types of gin include London Dry (crisp, juniper-forward), Plymouth Gin (earthier, slightly sweeter), Old Tom Gin (sweeter than London Dry), and New Western Dry Gin (less juniper-dominant, more botanical variety). Each offers a unique flavor profile.

What is gin made from?

Gin is a distilled alcoholic spirit that derives its predominant flavor from juniper berries. It’s typically made from a neutral grain spirit (like barley, wheat, or corn) which is then redistilled with a variety of botanicals, with juniper being the legal requirement.

World Gin Day Activities

  1. Read about gin’s history

    Gin has a fascinating history. Spend a bit of the day reading up on it.

  2. Drink some delightful gin cocktails

    Provided you’re of legal drinking age, go out to try some gin cocktails. You won’t be disappointed.

  3. Have a gin party with friends

    If you’d rather stay at home, call your friends over for a gin cocktail potluck. Everyone can bring their favorite gin, and you can whip up some unique cocktails together.

5 Interesting Facts About Alcohol

  1. A depressant

    Alcohol is a depressant as it slows down brain activity.

  2. Neurotransmission

    Alcohol consumption leads to the consumption of ‘dopamine’ — a neurotransmitter that leads to feelings of pleasure and satisfaction.

  3. Processing alcohol

    Alcohol is processed in the liver.

  4. The oldest cocktail

    The oldest cocktail in the world is believed to be Sazerac, which was invented in New Orleans in 1838.

  5. Piña Colada

    The Piña Colada is Puerto Rico’s national drink.

Why We Love World Gin Day

  1. It comes with a fascinating history

    Gin has a fascinating history. World Gin Day is a perfect excuse to read up on it.

  2. It’s an excuse to try gin

    For everyone interested, World Gin Day is the perfect opportunity to try the juniper-flavored spirit. You won’t look back.

  3. It’s an opportunity to drink delightful cocktails

    Gin is a popular spirit to use in cocktails. This day is a perfect excuse to try your hand at mixing and drinking some.

World Gin Day dates

Year Date Day
2026 June 13 Saturday
2027 June 12 Saturday
2028 June 10 Saturday
2029 June 9 Saturday
2030 June 8 Saturday