Tequila Don Julio will expand its presence at Flemington for the 2026 Melbourne Cup Carnival with the launch of Don Julio Hacienda, a multi-level destination within the iconic Birdcage Enclosure.
This year is the sixth year of partnership between the Victoria Racing Club (VRC) and Diago, with tequila brand Don Julio featuring in The Birdcage over the past two years.
The tequila brand will redefine the experience with a multi-level marquee featuring an immersive celebration of Mexican culture and modern luxury.
A world-class chef will create Mexican-inspired dishes, served alongside exceptional cocktails and live entertainment – designed to elevate the race day experience within the Birdcage.
VRC CEO Kylie Rogers said: “We are delighted to continue our longstanding partnership with Diageo, with the Don Julio Hacienda set to be a standout destination in the Birdcage this year. The elevated offering will bring an authentic taste of Mexican hospitality to Flemington, creating an unforgettable experience for VRC members and racegoers.”
Through his restaurant Woodend by Curtis Stone on Mexico’s Riviera Maya, Curtis has built a hospitality presence in Mexico. He has worked with the Don Julio team to identify a chef with a distinct culinary voice and a genuine connection to Mexican culture to shape the Hacienda’s food offering.
Don Julio Culinary Advisor Curtis Stone said: “Opening Woodend in Mexico deepened my appreciation for the country’s rich culinary traditions and vibrant hospitality. Leaning on that experience, the Hacienda’s menu needed to be shaped by a chef with their own genuine connection to Mexican culture.
“I’ve been working with Don Julio to select someone who can bring that perspective and a distinctive culinary voice to Spring Carnival. The menu will celebrate genuine Mexican flavours while matching the energy and sense of occasion at Flemington.
“I’m looking forward to introducing the chef and seeing the experience they create for racegoers.”
Diageo Australia Marketing & Innovation Director Sarah Shimmons said: “We are incredibly passionate about elevating the Melbourne Cup Carnival experience for our guests. The multi-level Don Julio Hacienda is designed to be a premier destination on track – a place where we bring authentic Mexican hospitality through our exceptional food offering and world-class cocktails.
‘’We have worked closely with our Culinary Advisor, Curtis Stone, to help find a chef who has a genuine connection to Mexican culture and will deliver a premium dining offering – we can’t wait to reveal the delicious menu’’.
The international chef behind the Hacienda’s menu will be revealed in the lead-up to the Melbourne Cup Carnival.
Tinie Tempah to headline Don Julio after-party
Tinie Tempah will headline ‘Don After Dark’ at Beverly Rooftop on Saturday 31 October.
One of the UK’s most celebrated artists, Tempah rose to international fame with his 2010 debut album Disc-Overy, featuring hits including Pass Out, Frisky and Written in the Stars. With a career spanning music, fashion and culture, he has cemented his place as one of the UK’s most recognisable performers.
Tempah will arrive in Australia fresh from the release of The Night’s Not Dead, his first album in several years. A
Tempah said: “Can’t wait to be back in Australia. Let’s get a glass out, bring the stars out and celebrate properly with Don Julio.”
Joining the lineup is Australian DJ and producer KLP. The ARIA-nominated, platinum-certified artist will bring her signature dance sound to the rooftop, alongside local DJ Andy Murphy.
Don Julio cocktails will flow throughout the evening, with Don Julio 1942 minis taking centre stage for a celebratory toast at the height of the night. Bringing together craftsmanship, connection and a standout music lineup, ‘Don After Dark’ will extend the excitement of Derby Day into the evening.