Savanna brings the flavour, fashion and funny to Durban July

If there’s ever a debate about who throws the best weekend parties in South Africa, Savanna Premium Cider firmly holds the crown. This year’s Durban July weekend was nothing short of a spectacular takeover, as the brand delivered its signature Weekend of Marvels, an extraordinary three-day affair that began on Friday and wrapped up in true VVIP style on Sunday.

The Savanna weekend in Durban, Image: Supplied

Savanna rolled out the crisp carpet for an unforgettable weekend pass, curated for the coolest crowd you can imagine. Among them were the hilarious cast of the People Need Comedy podcast, including Mpho Popps, Farieda Metsileng, Tsitsi Chiumya, Thabiso Mhlongo, and Shandray Van Wyk, a comedic dream team who brought their signature wit and energy. South Africa’s comedy royalty, Celeste Ntuli, also joined the lineup, adding even more sparkle to the weekend.

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The VVIP experience was evident from the outset, with a guest list that read like a who's who of local stardom. Actress and DJ Mbali Nkosi graced the event alongside her partner, actor Sandile Mahlangu. Familiar faces like Sithelo Shozi, Moshe Ndiki (who doubled up as the host with the most), and Mohale Motaung were also spotted enjoying the festivities.

Celeste Ntuli and the Funny Chef, Image: Supplied

Friday: Setting the Vibe at Savanna Manor

The festivities kicked off on Friday with a pre-Durban July celebration at Savanna Manor, nestled on Garlands Beach. Dubbed the house of Savivi fever, the venue buzzed with energy as guests played games and enjoyed flavourful dishes courtesy of the ever-entertaining Funny Chef. The evening ended on a high note, with none other than DJ Zinhle commanding the decks and bringing the house down.

The Friday night dinner set up at the Savanna Manor, Image: Supplied

Moshe Ndiki and Dj Zinhle, Image: Supplied

Saturday: Fashion, Flavour and a Marquee Like No Other

Saturday marked the main event, the annual Durban July, South Africa’s most iconic horse racing and fashion spectacle. True to form, Savanna’s presence was far from ordinary. Positioned within the exclusive Chaise Lounge, the Savanna Marquee served up a stylish escape where the drinks flowed, from Savanna Dry and Savanna Neat to their non-alcoholic variant, ensuring every guest could savour the crisp taste.

This year’s theme, Marvels of Mzansi, was interpreted through fashion that honoured local culture and spirit. In a standout collaboration, designer Sao Serati joined forces with Savanna to create bespoke two-pieces worn by Real Housewives of Durban twin stars Andile Pieterson and Ayanda Mthumbe. Inspired by South Africa’s gold-rich heritage, the garments shimmered with homegrown pride.

Celeste Ntuli and the Zama Twins, dancing at the Durban July, Image: Supplied

Savanna’s Marketing Communications Manager, Kayla Hendricks, was at the heart of the action. “This year, we wanted to elevate the Durban July experience with our Savanna Neat Speakeasy in collaboration with Chaise Lounge,” she shared. “While the Durban July often leans heavily into fashion and horses, we wanted to add a refreshing twist by including our iconic humour through our Savanna Givahs. It’s about delivering a balance, where people can laugh, enjoy fashion, and sip on our premium offerings.”

Fashion designer, Mzukisi Mbane, Image: Supplied

Sunday: Main Character Energy Until the Very End

The final day saw guests return to Savanna Manor for one last celebration. The energy remained electric, with DJ Zinhle, Mörda Bongz, Kelvin Momo and more keeping the vibes alive. The crowd, dubbed the Savivis, brought full-on main character energy, dancing the weekend away in true style.

Morda Bongz on the decks, Image: Supplied

The Weekend of Marvels was more than a party, it was the beginning of a new era for Savanna Premium Cider. A bold celebration of their beloved drinks, now a staple in South African homes from the suburbs to the townships, the event cemented Savanna’s status as not just a cider, but a lifestyle.