If 2017 is already getting the upper hand, don't despair! The Alumni Office has just the right medicine for you: Stellenbosch University's annual Homecoming and Family Weekend, which takes place from 2 to 6 March in Stellenbosch.

It is not only an affair for alumni. Staff members can also join in the exciting festivities, and as a valued staff member, you get discounts on selected shows and events.

The Alumni Office continues its partnership with the SU Woordfees, so be sure to visit www.woordfees.co.za to check out all their shows on offer.

So what can you look forward to?

You can kick off Homecoming 2017 in style with our not-to-be-missed Homecoming Music Extravaganza on 2 March. Enjoy old-time classical, pop and rock songs with celebrities like Corlea, Jannie Moolman, Timothy Moloi and Lindiwe Bongani.

Join our series of "Back to Class" faculty meet-ups from early morning until late afternoon on 3 March at the Boeketent. Discussions will include, among others, a panel debate on the state of the economy and career choices in 2050; changes in church and theology; ageing without Botox, Prozac or Viagra; a talk on GMO foods; corruption; and the impact of technology on teaching and learning in schools.

The Kayamandi Food, Wine and Art Experience on 3 March is an interactive celebration of heritage, food, wine, art and culture. Sit down to traditional South African cuisine paired with top Stellenbosch wines from the R304 area in the heart of Kayamandi, while the AmaZink cast and other Woordfees artists keep you entertained.

Come and have a laugh with Dowwe Dolla, South Africa's favourite blonde, in #DowweDolla on 3 March. Grandma Dowwe Dolla will also be making her first appearance, offering a wiser perspective on everyday events and issues in our country.

Get your running and cycle shoes ready for the Veldtrap met Woorde fun walk, run or cycle on 5 March – definitely the perfect outlet for pent-up frustration and work stress! What makes the event different is that it celebrates Afrikaans by having participants run with words unique to the language.  So are you "tandestokkie" or "moegoe", "babbelas" or "paraat"? Come and celebrate the unique Afrikaans words that make the language so special. Bring your family and friends and as always in Stellenbosch, the breath-taking scenery is a given. Register now at www.veldtrap.co.za/.

Are you a rugby enthusiast? We will have a mini fan park at Jan S Marais Nature Reserve where you can watch the Varsity Cup rugby match between Maties and Shimlas on 6 March. Even though this is an away-game for our boys, show your true maroon colours to cheer our boys on!

• Contact [email protected] for your special discount. For more information about the weekend's events and performances visit our website at www.matiesalumni.com.