In an era where consumer tastes are becoming ever more refined and experiential, it is imperative for brands and event organisers to innovate and create spaces that celebrate culture, craft, and community. GinMe, a burgeoning lifestyle event in Gaborone, is doing just that with its second edition planned for November 1st, 2025, at the iconic Game City Marquee. This event not only exemplifies the continued popularity of gin as a versatile spirit but also underscores its long-standing history as a beverage rooted in craftsmanship, culture, and sophistication.
Gin’s heritage stretches back several centuries. Originating in the Netherlands during the 11th century, modern gin quickly gained popularity across Europe and the UK in the 17th century, where it became a staple in social settings. Its unique botanical profile – featuring juniper berries along with a myriad of other herbs and spices – has made it a canvas for creativity and innovation within the spirits industry. Historically associated with the relaxation of social norms in 18th and 19th-century Britain, gin evolved into a symbol of style, class, and cultural expression, a reputation it continues to uphold today.
Today, gin is experiencing a renaissance fuelled by craft distillers and mixologists eager to push the boundaries of traditional cocktail artistry. The craft movement, combined with a renewed consumer interest in local produce and artisanal spirits, positions gin as more than a simple drink. It is a lifestyle choice like wine or designer gear. Celebrating these themes, GinMe aims to rekindle that spark and elevate gin from its status as a beverage to that of an art form.
The upcoming event is more than just a celebration; it is a carefully curated experience designed to appeal to a discerning audience of 30 to 50-something-year-olds who appreciate the finer things in life. Starting in the late morning, the 9-hour-long event caters to those who enjoy daytime socialising in a relaxed yet sophisticated ambiance – ideal for launching into the capital city’s summer event calendar. GinMe has carved out a niche by blending taste, music, and atmosphere, creating a space where attendees can indulge their senses and rediscover the craftsmanship behind gin cocktails, the artistry of local distillers, and the nostalgia associated with old-school RnB music.
This year’s edition features an impressive line-up of offerings tailored to elevate the customer experience. Ticketing options include a VIP package, which offers exclusive privileges such as a bottle of gin, curated bites, mixers, VIP seating, admittance for two guests, and parking. For those seeking a more flexible option, double tickets are available and include two 50ml bottles of Kathiku Gin, a local brand that embodies the spirit of Gaborone’s vibrant craft gin scene. For those going it alone, single tickets are also available, and they too come with a 50ml Kathiku Gin bottle to get the fun started.
The event has also positioned itself as an ideal corporate outing for local businesses seeking to entertain clients and foster relationships in a relaxed environment, according to organiser, Jacqueline Radikhukhu. With a focus on quality, craftsmanship, and community, they have carefully crafted the event as a space where corporate and social worlds intersect, allowing professionals to unwind and connect over shared interests.
Supporting local brands remains a cornerstone of GinMe’s ethos. The event partners with Pimville and Kathiku, two local distillers committed to showcasing the diverse and sophisticated potential of Botswana’s craft spirits scene. Incorporating local ingredients and flavours, these brands exemplify the region’s rich culture and artisanal talent, making GinMe a platform for local distillation artistry. Culinary excellence and innovative pairing are also central to the event. Signature cocktails will be crafted in collaboration with Red Bull, illustrating how gin can be a versatile, expressive spirit beyond the classic tonic accompaniment. This year’s focus on unique pairings will offer attendees an array of carefully curated food options, designed to complement the flavour profiles of the signature cocktails and spirits on offer. Although the event will feature a cash bar selling spirits, lagers, and ciders, there will be no non-alcoholic mocktail options, reaffirming its focus on celebrating the sensory and social aspects of spirits.
Music and entertainment are integral components of GinMe’s experience. The event will feature live performances by renowned local artists, including Brando, as well as BBC award-winning RnB singer, Gappy ROberts. These performances promise to set an eased tone that resonates with the event’s theme of sophistication intertwined with enjoyment and nostalgia.
To put something like this together is a collective effort. Production partnerships include a range of enterprises, including Rea Strive, The Den BW and Alpha Intelligence Inc. Other suppliers are Local Corner, Cyc Jouzy, Benju through their Cruxland Gin. Coca Cola Beverages and Distell sponsor welcome drinks through Schweppes brand and Old Buck respectively.
Their combined efforts ensure a high-quality experience, blending production expertise with authentic local flavour and cultural resonance.
As Gaborone moves into its summer season of things to do and places to be, GinMe provides an excellent opportunity for the city’s upmarket crowd and corporate sectors to kick off the season with style. It is a celebration of gin’s place in history, while also playing around with situating it in the present and future, by being open to innovating with the delectable, evergreen spirit.
