Earlier this week, Blankets and Wine team brought together media practitioners who have covered the festival from its infancy, sponsors who have kept the lights on, and the dedicated production crew who keep the show running.
It was a sentimental walk down memory lane, a reflection on how a simple idea had blossomed into one of East Africa’s most iconic cultural events, often described as the “Coachella of East Africa.”
Founded in 2008 by Muthoni Ndonga (MDQ), Blankets & Wine began as a modest picnic-style gathering in Nairobi, with an open invitation for people to bring their own blankets, wine and good cheer.
Over the years, it has evolved into a regional event that blends live music, fashion, art, and culture, creating a vibrant space for artists and audiences to connect.
What started as an avenue for emerging musicians to showcase their talent has now grown into a multi-city festival celebrated across Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda, and recently extended to the United Kingdom with an edition held in Bradford.
During the panel, MDQ reaffirmed the festival’s commitment to its founding vision, saying; “Our festival is about mission. We are here to build the arts and culture ecosystem, and we are focused on that.”
Her comments came amid reports that some disgruntled customers were considering legal action following the September edition.
“We have officially not received any legal summons. We only heard about it in the media,” she clarified. “Should we receive any notice from the authorities, we will follow due process.”
Joining her in the discussion were Justine Mbugua, the Head of Festival; Michelle Njeri, Head of Branding; and Communications Manager, Diane Ywaya.
“We are trying to build a culture with limited resources. Kenyan venues are a blank slate, and we are doing our best to create spaces where music and culture can thrive,” Justne said.
“We have come a long way in 16 years, but there is still more work to do. We thank Kenyans for standing with us, and as we turn seventeen, we look forward to co-creating the next chapter together.”
For many, this festival was a launchpad, a space where creativity could breathe before the world took notice.
As veteran showbiz guru David Murithi recalled, “Muthoni approached me with the idea for Blankets & Wine, and we wrote the first plan on a napkin. Sixteen years later, it’s still here. As Kenyans, we have a duty to build our own. It’s not perfect, but in my 36 years of event organisation, I have never seen anything quite like it.”
Despite its success, the festival has weathered challenges.
Earlier this year, the June edition was cancelled due to nationwide demonstrations, forcing organisers to issue refunds.