REFRESHED BY DON JULIO
What do Mexico and South Africa share? A deep-rooted love for celebration and a rich cultural heritage.
In honor of this shared spirit, Don Julio Tequila has teamed up with this year's Festival de México to bring a dedicated Day of the Dead (Día de los Muertos) experience to Cape Town. As the world’s leading luxury tequila, Don Julio is bringing Mexico’s most beloved holiday to life through an immersive installation at Ostrich Farm, Cape Town, curated by South African stylist Obakeng Rantlhane.
The Day of the Dead is a vibrant Mexican celebration that honors loved ones who have passed. At the heart of this tribute is the creation of an ofrenda, a traditional altar adorned with meaningful items.
Styled by Rantlhane, the ofrenda will blend Mexican customs with South African aesthetics, creating a visual display that resonates with both cultures. Known for his visionary approach, Obakeng's design will include vivid textiles, marigolds, and symbolic elements to give a modern twist to this ancient tradition. “I’m excited to style the ofrenda in a way that honors this significant holiday while adding a contemporary twist,” says Rantlhane. “My goal was to create a visually striking yet respectful cultural piece that captures the essence of Día de los Muertos.”
Celebrating the Heart of Mexican Culture
Beyond tequila, Don Julio is a gateway to Mexico’s rich heritage. By partnering with Festival de México, the brand celebrates a personal and universally resonant tradition. Ifeoma Agu, Group Head of Culture at Diageo Southern, West & Central Africa, says, “This collaboration embodies Don Julio's commitment to embracing and sharing the richness of Mexican culture with Africa.” The installation at the festival will serve as a monumental tribute, inviting festival-goers to experience the spirit of Día de los Muertos in a unique and interactive way.
Theo Zulu, Senior Brand Manager of Don Julio South Africa, adds, “Our partnership with Festival de México celebrates Don Julio's dedication to preserving and honoring Mexican culture. Día de los Muertos is not only about remembering the past; it’s about celebrating the present and looking forward to the future.”
Festival Highlights and Signature Cocktail – Don Julio Sunrise
Taking place on November 2nd, 2024, the Festival de México is one of South Africa’s most anticipated cultural festivals, bringing the best of Mexican culture to Cape Town. With Don Julio as a partner, festival-goers will enjoy an immersive experience with authentic touches, including the grand ofrenda. Ricardo da Costa, Festival Director, says, “Having Don Julio as a partner adds authenticity to our Día de los Muertos celebration and perfectly blends Mexico’s rich history with a modern, interactive experience.”
No celebration would be complete without a toast, and Don Julio’s featured cocktail for the festival, the Don Julio Sunrise, is the perfect tribute to Mexican flavors and summer vibes. This refreshing cocktail, with its blend of Don Julio Blanco, orange juice, and cranberry juice, offers a balance of tartness and sweetness, inviting festival-goers to celebrate with bold flavors and memorable moments.
Don Julio Sunrise Recipe:
- 50ml Don Julio Blanco
- 100ml Orange Juice
- 10ml Cranberry Juice
- Garnish: Orange twist or cherry
- Salt (for rim)
Method:
- Mix Don Julio Blanco with orange juice.
- Rim a highball glass with salt.
- Add ice cubes to the glass.
- Pour cranberry juice into the glass.
- Slowly pour the tequila and orange juice mixture.
- Garnish with an orange twist or cherry.
Raise a glass with Don Julio this Day of the Dead and enjoy a celebration that brings together two cultures for an unforgettable experience.
