Nairobi’s iconic Blankets & Wine festival recently celebrated its 17th anniversary with a private event, marking nearly two decades of uniting people through music, culture, and community. The milestone offered the team an opportunity to reflect on their journey and prepare for the upcoming Kenyan Summer 2025 edition.
A Cultural Journey Since 2008
Since its inception on November 8, 2008, Blankets & Wine has grown from a boutique Sunday picnic into one of Kenya’s premier cultural festivals. Celebrating African culture, live music, and community, the festival has played a pivotal role in shaping the region’s live music ecosystem, providing artists, fans, and brands with a shared cultural platform.
Commemorating the Team Behind the Magic
The anniversary event brought together the internal team to commemorate their years of dedication, challenges, and achievements. Founder Muthoni Ndonga praised the team’s enduring commitment, noting that it is the passion and care of the staff that have allowed the festival to thrive for 17 years. “No two editions of the festival are the same, and without the magic of this team, there really would be no Blankets & Wine,” Ndonga remarked.
Plans for Kenyan Summer 2025
The team shared plans for significant improvements ahead of Kenyan Summer 2025. An independent architectural team has been engaged to redesign the festival’s venue layout, focusing on enhancing flow, crowd movement, and overall accessibility. Brand manager Michelle Njeri explained that the goal is to ensure the festival space reflects both its scale and ambition, creating a seamless experience for attendees.
Reflections on Growth and Commitment
Reflecting on the festival’s growth, head of Blankets & Wine, Justine Mbugua, emphasized that their 17-year history is a story of love, learning, and community. “The work we do comes from the heart. While it’s often challenging, it’s necessary to develop the live music sector and stimulate the economy. Celebrating our birthday allows us to reaffirm our commitment and enthusiasm to keep improving,” Mbugua stated.
Addressing Public Concerns
The organisers also addressed recent speculation regarding the September edition, clarifying that no formal legal complaints have been received. Communication manager Diane Ywaya reassured the public that any concerns raised are thoroughly investigated, with corrective measures implemented where necessary. She further noted that refunds for drinks and duplicate mobile payments are ongoing, requiring careful coordination with finance and vendor teams.
Looking Forward
The 17th anniversary celebration highlighted the festival’s enduring impact on Kenya’s cultural landscape and reinforced the team’s dedication to creating unforgettable experiences. As the countdown begins for Kenyan Summer 2025 on December 21, fans can expect a reimagined venue, enhanced comfort, and an even more vibrant celebration of music, culture, and community.
