The Citizen (Gauteng)

Durban July weekend guide

RUB SHOULDERS WITH THE FAMOUS: GREYVILLE BECOMES CELEBVILLE FOR THE WEEKEND

- Kgosi Modisane

You will need another weekend to recuperate.

While thousands of racegoers head for the KwaZulu-Natal coast this weekend for the most anticipate­d event of the year, it is wise to plan your activities in advance and avoid the FOMO (fear of missing out). Whether business or pleasure, the Vodacom Durban July is one of the events which South Africans look out for and for Gautengers, a time they can let loose and indulge in the tropical climate of the city.

For first timers attending the event finding the right party can tend to be rather tricky. However, early preparatio­n will reduce the risk of finding yourself at the wrong side of the guest list and having to fight your way into the VIP section. Like most A-list events it’s not about who you are but rather who knows you.

So why not increase your social media following by being seen mingling among the rich and famous of SA Celebville at these events.

FRIDAY: JUNE 30

Kick-start the weekend on a high with the Vodacom Durban July Launch Concert by Mabala Noise Entertainm­ent which seeks to usher in the weekend with a huge line up of music acts that include Grammy and BET award-winning artist Robin Thicke and French Montana. With tickets ranging between R250 for general access and R1 500 for an ultimate VIP experience, this concert is among the main events of the weekend.

SATURDAY: JULY 1 And they’re off!

Just in case you are not familiar with the structure of the July, everything takes place at the Greyville Racecourse and finding the right marquee is always the order of the day. Celebratin­g South Africa’s favourite musical genres, be prepared to experience music and whisky at its finest as Mafikizolo, AKA, Cassper Nyovest, Riky Rick, Nasty C, Black Motion, Shekinah, Sketchy Bongo, DJ Fresh, DJ Shimza, Glen Lewis, DJ Capital, Du Boiz, DJ Milkshake, DJ Dimplez and DJ Vigilante and more rock the BoomTown stage.

And if its smooth sounds you seek, then why not join actor and radio personalit­y Thato Molamu as he hosts the first ever The Glenlivet JazzTown marquee to the jazzy sounds of internatio­nal guitarist Jimmy Dludlu, vocalist Lira and the game changing new age soul Tresor.

Party the night away at the Fact Durban Rocks party happening at the People’s Park, Moses Mabida Stadium. With headline acts from Durban-based artist recoding stable Afrotainme­nt, this concert will have you on your feet and chanting to award-winning hits from AKA, Kwesta, Cassper Nyovest and Babes Wodumo just to name a few, there is nowhere else you want to find yourself.

SUNDAY: JULY 2

A yacht experience as personalit­ies Bonang Matheba, Tbo Touch and David Tlale toast away with Courvoisie­r cognac. Hosted at one of Durban’s exclusive restaurant­s, La Vue, this shindig is among those not to be missed.

And for those who are slightly younger at heart, the annual Pop Bottles Durban music festival is the final pit stop before returning home to the City of Gold.

With all this said, there is no reason why any inhibition­s need to keep a hold of you throughout the weekend, in fact, you will probably need another weekend to rest and recuperate.

 ?? Picture: Gallo Images ?? Durban is ready for this weekend’s race at Greyville.
Picture: Gallo Images Durban is ready for this weekend’s race at Greyville.
 ?? Picture: Gallo Images ?? LIP-SYNC. Racegoers during the Vodacom Durban July at Greyville Racecourse.
Picture: Gallo Images LIP-SYNC. Racegoers during the Vodacom Durban July at Greyville Racecourse.
 ?? Picture: Gallo Images ?? RELAX. Elegance at the Durban July.
Picture: Gallo Images RELAX. Elegance at the Durban July.

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