?This year, Stellenbosch 中国体育彩票 (SU) celebrates a special milestone – its tenth annual Homecoming Weekend, taking place from Thursday 11 September to Saturday 13 September 2025.
Karen Bruns, Senior Director of Development and Alumni Relations, reflects on how far the tradition has come. “Ten years ago, our Homecoming Weekend began as a simple idea: to reconnect, reminisce, and celebrate the bond we all share as Maties. Today, it's a tradition that continues to grow stronger every year. This 10-year milestone is more than just a date. It's a tribute to the memories we've made, the friendships we've cherished, and the pride we feel in calling SU home."
It will also mark Prof Deresh Ramjugernath's first Homecoming as Rector and Vice-Chancellor. “I'm looking forward to meeting the Matie community who continue to carry the spirit of Stellenbosch across the world," says Prof Ramjugernath. “Whether you graduated last year or many decades ago, this is your moment to come home – to reconnect, relive memories, and celebrate your journey as part of the Matie family."
A packed line-up of events promises to make this Homecoming unforgettable.
The Theatre Showcase will celebrate the performing arts with a production directed by alumna and Fleur du Cap Theatre Awards winner Nicole Holm, in collaboration with Drama Department lecturers Mmatumisang Motsisi and Schalk van der Merwe.
Golfers can look forward to the ever-popular Homecoming Golf Day, offering a relaxed and scenic setting at the Stellenbosch Golf Course, perfect for catching up with old friends and fellow alumni.
One of the highlights will be the Matie Winemakers Showcase, celebrating 100 years of Pinotage. More than 20 top Matie winemakers will present their finest wines in honour of this iconic varietal. Your ticket includes a tasting pass and a commemorative wine glass. Participating estates include Delheim, Kanonkop, Perdeberg, Die Laan, Bergsig, and Beyerskloof – an opportunity to experience the best of South African winemaking, all in one place.
At the heart of the weekend, the Matieland Concert returns for another memorable evening in the Endler Hall. This year's line-up includes celebrated storyteller and musical icon Natani?l, actress and comedienne Margit Meyer-R?denbeck, acclaimed actor and singer Dean Smith, the Maties Jazz Society, alumni vocal ensemble Lyrica Nova, soprano Sashon Johnson, and pianist Karen Petersen.
Homecoming wouldn't be complete without the many residence and class reunions, where alumni gather to celebrate remarkable milestones. This year, we mark various significant anniversaries – among them, the 100th anniversary of both the Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences and the Department of Agricultural Economics, the 120th anniversary of Harmonie, and an incredible 150 years of Maties Rugby.
Click here to view the full programme and book your tickets. Don't miss the chance to be part of this milestone celebration - because no matter where life has taken you, you'll always have a place to come back to.?
