For those who have spent a winter in Antarctica or the sub-Antarctic islands, Midwinter is more than just the shortest day of the year. It is a cherished tradition – a time to pause, celebrate, and reconnect with the people who share a unique bond forged in some of the world’s most remote places.
Celebrated each year on the southern winter solstice (20 or 21 June), Midwinter marks the midpoint of the long Antarctic winter, when overwintering teams are living in isolation, surrounded by darkness and extreme conditions. Over the years, the tradition has extended beyond the continent itself, with former expedition members gathering back home to celebrate the friendships and shared experiences that connect the South African National Antarctic Programme (SANAP) community.
On 20 June 2026, the SANAP community gathered at the Botany and Zoology Department Tea Room at Stellenbosch University to continue this tradition. Approximately 80 members of the SANAP family attended the event, enjoying a relaxed “kuier” that extended from lunch through to dinner.
Hosted by the Antarctic Legacy of South Africa (ALSA), which has organised Western Cape Midwinter celebrations since 2016, the gathering brought together a diverse cross-section of the SANAP community, including former overwintering team members, takeover personnel, researchers, support staff, partners, family members, and friends of South Africa’s Antarctic and Southern Ocean programme.
Some had travelled south only recently, while others were reflecting on expeditions that had taken place decades ago. Yet, despite the different generations represented, there was an immediate sense of familiarity and camaraderie in the room.
Guests enjoyed a warm lunch of soup and bread, followed by chocolate éclairs, while catching up with old friends and making new connections. Conversations flowed easily, with stories of voyages to the far South being shared across the tables.
One of the highlights of the afternoon was the introduction round, where attendees shared which overwintering teams they had been part of. The remarkable breadth of experience in the room was evident, with teams represented from across the decades, including SANAE 9, which overwintered in Antarctica in 1968.
A meaningful activity during the event saw guests adding their names and overwintering dates to maps of Antarctica, Marion Island, Prince Edward Island and Gough Island (below). As the maps gradually filled with names, they became a striking reminder of the many journeys south and the generations of people who have shaped this unique community. The signed maps will be auctioned, with the proceeds being donated to a charity. Further details, including the chosen beneficiary, will be shared at a later date.
As the afternoon drew to a close, it was clear that Midwinter is about far more than marking the shortest day of the year. It is a celebration of friendship, shared memories, and an enduring connection to the South, one that continues to bring together generations of the SANAP family. (Left: Friends and Family of SANAP members) Thank you to Leila Nefdt (right) and other attendees for photographing the event.
Photographs from the 2026 Midwinter celebration are currently being uploaded to the Antarctic Legacy Archive. As part of our ongoing efforts to improve access to the collection, the archive is also being migrated to a new platform. During this transition, some users may experience temporary difficulties accessing images or other content. We appreciate your patience and look forward to sharing the full gallery once the migration is complete.
Thank you to everyone who joined us in celebrating another memorable Midwinter. We look forward to welcoming the SANAP community again next year!