Durban July unveils premium experience ‘The Ascots’ in 2026

The initiative is curated by Aline Media Group and will form part of the wider Durban July programme, which has traditionally centred on horse racing and fashion. The new feature will occupy a 4 000 square metre space on the southern lawns of the venue and is expected to accommodate around 2 000 guests.

The Ascots will feature three international headliners Bryson Tiller, Masego, and DJ Mustard.

They will be joined by South African artists Shekhinah, Elaine and Tresor. Additional performances are scheduled from Brian Henry, Akio and Durban-born DJ Asvnte.

The event is being developed by Aline Media Group, founded by Grammy Award-winning producer Sibo Mhlungu. It will combine live music with curated food and beverage offerings, alongside enhanced production and hospitality services.

“The focus is on the full experience, from arrival to the final act,” Mhlungu said. “As someone born and bred in Durban, this is more than just an event to me, it’s a way to uplift and contribute to my hometown. For years, Durban has been treated as a secondary market for large-scale shows and has rarely been considered a destination for international artists or events of this scale.”

Organisers say The Ascots is intended to expand the entertainment offering of the Durban July, which has long been associated with tourism, fashion and sport. They argue that increased focus on music programming, production quality and hospitality could broaden the event’s appeal and attract a more diverse audience, positioning it as a larger international cultural gathering.

Culinary partners include Tyler’s and Tightline Seafood Butcher, who will provide food offerings as part of the event experience. Production is being handled by local event teams, according to organisers.

Tickets for The Ascots are available via Howler.