Glamour on the track: Boity Thulo, Carol Ofori and Jessica Nkosi dazzle at Hollywoodbets Durban July 2025

The much-anticipated Hollywoodbets Durban July (HDJ) 2025 took place on Saturday, July 5, at the Hollywoodbets Greyville Racecourse.

This year’s event was not just a spectacle for horse racing aficionados but also a vibrant celebration of fashion, culture, and camaraderie that drew a star-studded crowd, offering a truly unforgettable experience.

From the moment the gates opened, the atmosphere was electrifying. Attendees from all walks of life arrived dressed in their finest, setting the tone for a day packed with glamour.

Celebrities reigned supreme on the grounds, showcasing a breathtaking array of haute couture that left onlookers in awe. Bright colours, intricate designs and striking accessories were the order of the day, with many men and women turning the racecourse into a catwalk of elegance and style. 

Celebrities like Carol Ofori, Jessica Nkosi and Boity Thulo came prepared for this prestigious event.

Ofori, who was dressed by Sibu Msimang, noted: " The Proteas have just won a test championship, so we are celebrating the marvels that are The Proteas. They have made history, so why not?"

When asked what the HDJ means to her, she said: "It's a fun day, socialising, eating, drinking day and seeing people I haven’t seen in a very long time. And betting on some horses and making some money."

The radio personality said she was excited to see Somizi, noting: "I saw Somgaga arriving in a gorgeous dress. I believe there is a performance later on. I’m looking forward to that."

When it came to fashion, Nkosi didn’t miss a beat in sticking to the theme.

As a "Marvel of Mzansi", her dress was inspired by South Africa’s national flower, the Protea. As a Hollywoodbets influencer, she said the HDJ is a beautiful space with different people with different interests come together.

“If you love fashion, you can come. If you love sports you can come. If you love horses, music and food, you can come,” she said. She noted that what made this year’s event different was an increase in interest and excitement in the event.

Thulo, also inspired by the Protea flower, revealed that when it comes to the HDJ, comfort is a priority for her.

Wearing a glittering short dress by Otiz Seflo, she noted: "When you come to the Durban July, there is a lot of walking around so for me comfort comes first. I want to be able to move comfortably. And also, it's a long evening so you don't want to be feeling overwhelmed."

The HDJ has become synonymous with flamboyant fashion, but this year it elevated the bar even higher.

Notably, the marquee setups added a chic layer to the event, with beautifully designed spaces that provided a refuge from the sun. Guests mingled in lavish settings adorned with floral displays and comfortable seating, indulging in gourmet catering as they prepared for the thrilling races. 

Mduduzi Mkhize, the project coordinator of the Executive Concerts Marquee, a marquee that's making its debut this year, said: "We felt like we needed to also showcase another side of what Durban is.

"The city is vast, and it’s different. We wanted to bring in a little bit of culture and bring in a little Zulu-ness and a little bit of sassiness. We wanted to show people how luxury and culture can mix."

As the horses thundered down the track, the cheers from the crowd echoed throughout the racecourse. The day featured not only thrilling races but also live entertainment that kept the spirit high.

With music pumping and laughter ringing out, attendees were drawn into a festive atmosphere that celebrated both the sport and the social fabric of Mzansi. 

In essence, this year’s event reaffirmed its status as a pinnacle event in the South African calendar, blending the thrill of horse racing with the flair of fashion.

It is an experience that celebrates community, sport and style in equal measure, leaving a lasting impression that attendees will carry into the years to come.