A gin and tonic isn’t just an evening drink for the grandmother from the Madam & Eve comics. Since it was first created as a medical treatment for stomach pains in the 17th century, gin has gone through countless revolutions and has solidified its position as a favourite among social gatherings of all ages and descriptions. South Africa in particular is seeing new and exciting developments in the world of the G&T, with distillers tapping into local flavours of African botanicals and fynbos to create new and exciting variations. In the midst of this growing gin appreciation and celebration, the Gin & Tonic Festival is coming to Johannesburg for the first time on Saturday, 30 April and Sunday, 1 May.
Two day Gin & Tonic festival
Inviting Joburgers to taste, swirl, and enjoy the fastest growing category of spirit in the world, the two-day festival promises to feature the most exciting local gin distilleries and some well-known international brands. Taking place from 11am to 7pm, ticket holders will have a whole day to sit back with their complimentary gin tumbler and sample all that the gin world has to offer. With 18 ginsmiths and exciting gin brands on site, you’re guaranteed to find at least one delicious bottle to take home with you. Treat yourself to Gordon’s, Inverroche, Hope on Hopkins, Musgrave, The Botanist, Cruxland, Saffron, New Harbour Distillery or Bloedlemoen gins. There will also be plenty of food options available to compliment your G&T and make this an epic day out.
Artists and DJ’s at the festival
In keeping with the traditions of the venue, The Sheds at 1 Fox, an excellent list of local artists and DJs will perform on stage in The Good Luck Bar on both days. As a proudly South African event, the local line-up will include Josie Field and Laurie Levine, The Urban Village, Michael Lesar, The Black Cat Bones, Bye Beneco, and Half ‘n Half. Grab your friends, head out early, and make the most of the day in this incredible space with some of the best food and drink stalls in the country.
Words: Lucy Sarah Heaney
Images: Supplied
