The 2026 Hollywoodbets Durban July wasn’t just about horse racing. As the event celebrated its 130th edition, it once again brought together South Africa’s biggest names in fashion, entertainment and luxury, with Don Julio making one of the weekend’s most memorable statements.
Set against this year’s Country Allure theme, the brand delivered a series of curated experiences that celebrated craftsmanship, from high fashion collaborations to premium tequila tastings and an exclusive afterparty.
Fashion Took Centre Stage
One of Don Julio’s standout moments came through its collaboration with acclaimed designer Orapeleng Modutle, actress Linda Mtoba and television producer Teddy Geldart.
Modutle created a bespoke couture look exclusively for Mtoba, interpreting the Country Allure dress code through his signature craftsmanship. The finished design quickly became one of the day’s most talked-about fashion moments, reflecting the same attention to detail and artistry that Don Julio says defines its brand.
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According to Cebisa Luzipho, Culture Manager for Don Julio South, West and Central Africa at Diageo, the partnerships are built around shared values. “Every Don Julio partnership begins with intention. We collaborate with creatives whose dedication to craftsmanship reflects the values upon which Don Julio was built.”
A Spotlight on Don Julio Rosado
Beyond the fashion, guests were invited to experience the brand through immersive tasting stations showcasing Don Julio Rosado. Rather than offering simple samples, the activation highlighted the tequila’s versatility through signature cocktails designed for the occasion. The experience encouraged guests to see premium tequila as more than a celebratory drink, positioning it as part of modern entertaining and social occasions.
Music and Culture Completed the Experience
The Durban July’s entertainment line-up kept the energy high throughout the day, with international artists including Bryson Tiller, Swae Lee and Masego joined by South African favourites such as Cassper Nyovest, Elaine, Shekhinah and Tresor. The combination of racing, fashion, music and hospitality has helped cement the Durban July as one of Africa’s biggest lifestyle events.
The Party Continued at Club 1942
After the final race, Don Julio hosted invited guests at Club 1942, an exclusive afterparty inspired by its ultra-premium Don Julio 1942 expression. The event brought together celebrities, creatives and industry leaders for an evening of music, signature cocktails and luxury hospitality, extending the celebrations well beyond the racecourse.
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The activation follows the brand’s growing investment in South African culture. After previously celebrating film and television through its Don’s Table initiative, Don Julio turned its focus to fashion at this year’s Durban July, reinforcing craftsmanship and creativity as central themes across its cultural partnerships.
