Blankets & Wine 2025 was a vibrant showcase of African music, fashion, and cultural expression, held at Laureate Gardens within Kasarani Stadium. With a dynamic lineup and a crowd that came dressed to impress, the event offered more than just performances; it was a celebration of creativity, identity, and shared experiences. From curated sounds to curated styles, this edition reflected the evolving energy of Nairobi’s entertainment scene and the growing appetite for homegrown talent.  

“It felt like stepping into a different world. All the performances were lit, the crowd stylish, and my beautiful colleagues also made it an unforgettable Sunday. I really enjoyed myself.” Lydia Mweri

The atmosphere was rich with colour and texture. Afro-bohemian looks, streetwear statements, and bold accessories turned the venue into a runway of self-expression. While women led the fashion charge, men also made a strong showing. Beyond personal style, the grounds featured stalls selling a diverse range of cultural attire, from East African prints to West African embroidery. The culinary offerings were equally diverse, with Chinese soju and Jinro alongside traditional African drinks like muratina. Classical noodle stands, sizzling nyama choma, and familiar street bites created a refreshing blend of global and local flavours. Face art and caricature booths added playful flair, allowing vendors to thrive and turning the event into a platform for creative enterprise and economic opportunity. The Show Up Communications team had the chance to participate in this year’s edition, capturing moments and engaging with the experience firsthand.

“For me, I was really excited to dress up and showcase my personality through fashion. It was amazing to see so many people looking stunning.”  Laura Kemuma

 

This year’s lineup featured a bold mix of African talent. Tems, Joshua Baraka, Toxic Lyrikali, Chimano, We Are Nubia, Zaituni Wambui, Flier, and Billy Black each brought their unique energy to the stage. Chimano’s performance was a standout, captivating, theatrical, and deeply felt. Baraka kept the crowd moving, Toxic resonated with a Kenyan lyrical edge, and Tems delivered a soulful set that left the audience in quiet awe.

“It was my first time attending Blankets and Wine, and I thoroughly enjoyed the experience despite the few challenges.. A highlight for me was seeing Tems perform, as I consider her an icon. Overall, it was a memorable experience, and I am already looking forward to their next event.” Kimberly Osemo

Compared to previous editions that leaned into a more relaxed millennial vibe, this year’s Gen Z-heavy audience brought a louder, more stimulating, and digitally engaged energy. The addition of the Onja Onja stage, featuring amapiano, house, and oontz music, alleviated pressure on the main stage and provided a vibrant alternative for those seeking a different rhythm.

“Seeing Tems perform was truly ethereal; I’ve long admired her art, and the live experience, despite a few sound hitches, did not disappoint. Still, Joshua Baraka carried the night: his set was captivating, his chemistry with Mutoriah was electric, and the surprise appearances from Maya Amolo, Mr. Tee, and Bien elevated the show even further. Overall, I’d rate the experience 8.5/10.”   Joy Chemutai

Despite the creative highs, the event faced logistical challenges. Overcrowding made movement difficult, and basic services, such as accessing pre-ordered drinks or making payments, became frustratingly slow. Communication was minimal, especially during Tems’ ninety-minute delay, and the decision not to have her close the show left many confused, as she was the most anticipated performer. Frequent advertisements between sets disrupted the rhythm, and the overall organisation felt strained. While the talent delivered, the experience didn’t always match the promise. For an event known for its polish, this edition felt commercially overextended.

“ Blankets and Wine for me was good vibes, soulful music, and unforgettable moments.I really enjoyed the artists’ performances. My favorite performance was from Zaituni, Tems, and Baraka; they made my evening.” Sophia Rukwaro.

“The recent Blankets & Wine was pure magic. Toxic’s delivery stole the spotlight, leaving the crowd hanging on every word and rhythm. Tems gave us that awe-filled, soul-stirring feeling, her voice cutting through the evening air in a way that was both powerful and intimate. Beyond the music, the event impressed me with its seamless tech, from crystal-clear sound to immersive lighting and visuals that elevated the performances to another level. A truly unforgettable session.” Michael Segawa

 “Apart from the performances, everything else was hectic; from the network issues to the disorganized order of collecting pre-ordered goods, we had to struggle in long queues with a waiting time of about 2 hours. This could have definitely been better.” John Njoroge

From a communications perspective, Blankets & Wine 2025 showcased both strengths and weaknesses. The visual storytelling was impressive, with strong fashion, staging, and vibrant crowd energy providing rich material. However, the overall narrative lacked cohesion. The messaging regarding delays, artist transitions, and service logistics was minimal, leaving attendees to fill in the gaps on their own. For an event of this scale, the lack of timely updates and audience-focused communication was a missed opportunity.

Looking ahead, there’s room for refinement. Future editions could benefit from capped ticketing, smoother logistics, and clearer communication to preserve the ease and intimacy that Blankets & Wine is known for. With the right adjustments, the festival can continue to grow without losing the essence that makes it special. When Kenyans show up to celebrate their own, the moment deserves to be as seamless as it is spectacular.