Our Story
The Big Vegkop Star Party was founded in 2025, with the inaugural event taking place from 25 to 27 April 2025.
What began as an initiative by a small group of stargazing enthusiasts has grown into a celebration of astronomy, heritage, and community. The event was created to promote Vegkop as a premier astronomy destination, while also raising funds to help preserve the historic Vegkop site and support the upkeep of its grounds, museum, and monument.
Following the success of the first gathering, we decided to make the Big Vegkop Star Party an annual tradition. Each year, the event continues to support the same important causes while bringing together stargazers from the Free State, Gauteng, and across South Africa for a memorable weekend under the stars.
Vegkop
Vegkop is one of the most important historical sites in the Free State and is a site of special significance to the South African heritage. It is the place where the first battle took place between the boers and the local tribes north of the Orange river. This took place in October 1836. You can find more information at the Vegkop Website
The unique beauty and seclusion of the site captivate many and attract numerous visitors from all over each year. The site belongs to the community of Heilbron and is managed and maintained by the community.
Vegkop is frequented by many astronomy hobbyists and advanced astrophotographers due to the pristine quality of the night sky the venue offers.