Race day revelry: fabulous weather and growing excitement at the Hollywoodbets Durban July
South Africa - KZN - 2025 Hollywoodbets Durban July Fashion on the main day.
Image: Sibonelo Ngcobo/ Independent Newspapers
The sun is out and serious punters have already made their way to Hollywoodbets Greyville Racecourse for the Hollywoodbets Durban July.
The racecourse is alive with fashionistas, punters, the who’s who and racegoers from all around the country ready to enjoy horse racing action and lifestyle entertainment.
The excitement is building as the fashionistas stroll in the 2025 Hollywoodbets Durban July.
Image: Alyssia Birjalal
From grand helicopter entrances to minor road closures, traffic is already following into the racecourse setting Durban’s Central Business District alive.
Durban’s weather did not disappoint, proving itself Africa’s playground with winter practically forgotten.
Although it rained briefly on Friday, the sky is now clear and cloudless.
Fashionistas and punters still making their way can relax knowing that they can wear anything, from slippers to sneakers, the turf is moist and not muddy.
Though it’s still early, the race course is filling up, and the race-watching stands are already packed for early morning race action.
Most marquees are already set up and slowly waiting for partygoers to fill them up.
If you’ve been here before, the set-up is different. There’s a lifestyle village and the ground is set up with various food trucks, drink stands and public bars, creating an inviting atmosphere.
The stage is also set for the lifestyle festival side of the race with different performances scheduled throughout the day.
The hats are giving at Hollywoodbets Durban July Fashion on the main day.
Image: Sibonelo Ngcobo/ Independent Newspapers
Zolani Mahola from Freshly Ground is set to have a rendition of the National Anthem.
Mafikizolo, Lira, Hot Water, GoodLuck, DJ Dalootz, Lee Cole and Sunset Sweatshop will hit the stage as the day progresses.
So far, it promises to be a memorable day, highlighting the city’s tourism revival.
Michaela Reddy, 17, Avoca Hills, north of Durban, is already relaxed, enjoying herself at a marquee in the lifestyle area.
As a first-timer at the horse racing event, she feels excited. “I’m here to see the race and it will be my first time punting. I hope to win,” she said.
Kiara Reddy, 21, from Avoca Hills, echoed the same sentiments. She is looking forward to the main race. #
“The weather is great and everything is lovely. I’m actually having a good time, she said.
From the look of things, it promises to be a memorable day which will go down in the books as the city’s comeback.