Durban Set for Spectacular Hollywoodbets Durban July

 

By Fred Felton | Jun. 25, 2026

There is much excitement ahead of the 2026 Hollywoodbets Durban July, with the City ready to host one of Africa’s most prestigious sporting and lifestyle events.

The launch was filled with fashion. | Photo: Fiona Wainwright 

The official media launch for the event was held on 24 June at the Shongweni Club.

The eThekwini Mayor Councillor Cyril Xaba gave a keynote address at the launch and he assured residents, visitors, and stakeholders that the City is fully prepared to welcome the thousands of guests expected to descend on Durban for the annual spectacle.

The event blends world-class horse racing, cutting-edge fashion, entertainment and Durban’s renowned hospitality.

Mayor Xaba delivering the keynote address. | Photo: Fiona Wainwright. 

‘’The Durban July weekend transforms our City into a vibrant hub of economic activity, providing a substantial boost to hotels, guesthouses, restaurants, transport operators, retailers, tourism attractions, and informal traders. It remains one of the most important economic catalysts on Durban’s annual events calendar,’’ said Mayor Xaba.

For 2026 projections indicate that more than 40 000 visitors are expected to attend the event, with direct spending estimated at R230 million and a broader contribution of approximately R798 million to the local economy.

An estimated 1 105 jobs will be supported through the event’s value chain.

Nine emerging desigers will showcase their talent at the Hollywoodbets Durban July. | Photo: Fiona Wainwright. 

‘’Through the Durban Fashion Fair programme, we are nurturing the next generation of fashion entrepreneurs. Nine emerging designers who have completed a rigorous ten month mentorship programme will showcase their talent through the prestigious DFF Rising Stars Collection on the Celebration Stage at the Hollywoodbets Durban July,’’ noted Mayor Xaba.

The Mayor also mentioned that the City’s extensive preparations included coordinated safety and security measures. Metro Police and Traffic Management officers will maintain high-visibility around the Greyville precinct during the event.

This year is the 130^th running of South Africa’s premier horse race, a huge milestone that shows the enduring legacy of this iconic event.

For the event this year there will be 29 independently operated hospitality venues and VIP marquees, supported by more than 9 000 event staff and an additional 1 000 security personnel.

‘’While every owner, trainer, jockey, breeder and groom dreams of winning the R10 million Hollywoodbets Durban July, the event simultaneously creates opportunities across multiple sectors, supporting thousands of livelihoods and showcasing Durban on a national and international stage,’’ said Head of Mayor Events, Broadcast and Marketing at Race Coast, Stephen Marshall.

Hollywoodbets Brand and Communications Manager Devin Heffer also announced that the winner’s stake has doubled to R10 million, making the Hollywoodbets Durban July the richest horse race in Africa.

You can also expect to see many improvements including new grandstands, upgrades to the parade ring, roofing improvements, enhanced sound systems, fresh paintwork, and large digital screens. Heffer said the Hollywood Group and Race Coast had invested significantly in infrastructure upgrades and the venue.

The theme for this year’s event is ‘’Country Allure’’, and invites fashion fans, designers, and attendees to explore a sophisticated fusion of rural elegance, timeless charm, and contemporary style.

Residents and visitors are encouraged to embrace the spirit of Country Allure and be part of an unforgettable celebration of fashion, entertainment, horse racing, and Durban hospitality.