Extravagance galore as Durban July patrons pay up to R10k for hospitality

At a time when most South Africans are tightening their belts, some with cash to splash are forking out up to R10,000 for a spot at one of the many opulent hospitality marquees at the upcoming Durban July.

From champagne and gourmet food to pamper and shoeshine stations, belly dancers, cocktail lounges and private punting spots, hospitality at the premier racing and fashion event at Greyville racecourse on Saturday appears to be in keeping with this year’s theme, “Out of this World”. 

Organisers of hospitality experiences at the Durban July told the Sunday Times they’ve seen no evidence of guests holding back, with some packages costing between R3,500 and R10,000 per person.

The tickets are bought by individuals, companies and CEOs entertaining clients.

More than 50,000 people are expected to attend.

At the Xclusive Sky Lounge marquee, packages range from R6,500 to R10,000 per head and are nearly sold out.

Lawrancia Mqwebu, spokesperson for Xclusive Sky Lounge, said: “The response has been amazing. We are very confident our tickets will be fully sold in time for the races.

“This year everyone is going big and we are not going to fall behind on that. Our venue is an offering for the elite client who wants to enjoy an exclusive and private offering while also viewing the races and networking among other elites.

“It is true that globally the economy is not very stable … but people need to destress and it is evident through the sales we are seeing and the excitement expressed by interested parties.”

So what does the hefty price tag buy you?

“All of our packages come standard with access to our purple carpet, a champagne and cocktail bar provided, a culinary experience with some of the best chefs in KwaZulu-Natal, a pamper station, and shuttles by BMW and Mini.

“But what stands out about us is our appreciation for food. We will have a huge display of food and an array of menu offerings throughout the day. We also have a celebrity chef,” said Mqwebu.

Former Idols presenter Unathi Nkayi has been hired as MC and guests will be entertained by Afropop duo Mafikizolo, DJ Sphectacula and DJ Naves.

Vidahl Pillay of the Vibes marquee said tickets cost R3,500 to R5,500 per person and will open the doors to cocktail lounges, a raised private deck next to the racetrack, an all-day buffet and belly dancers.

“We are about 70% sold out, so it’s been excellent. The July is a hype, people tend to save for it to forge good business relationships, friendships and memories,” said Pillay. 

Phindile Zulu, of the Halisi Afrique marquee and co-owner of the Durban eating spot, said R6,500 will give a guest access to a luxuriously decorated marquee, champagne garden, a curated light lunch, bespoke cocktails, a three-course supper, late-night snacks, a shoeshine station and pamper spots for women who want their hair and makeup touched up.

The menu will include slow-cooked lamb and beef lip — “a delicacy that people really love”, creamy shrimp and mussel pasta and ujeqe, traditional Zulu steamed bread.

“Last year was our first Durban July. We took the risk and we had a good response.

“This year the response is even better. We are expecting one more payment and then we will be fully booked. Our marquee will accommodate 250 people.

“I don’t think people are deterred by what our economy is doing,” she said.

Russell Scott of The Pegasus Lounge, which is charging between R5,775 and R6,050 per person, said ticket sales are better this year.

“We had a good response from our clients and we are nearly sold out,” he said.