Blankets and Wine 2024: The Kenyan Summer December Edition

Attending Blankets and Wine for the first time was an experience I will never forget. Dubbed the “Kenyan Summer December Edition,” this iconic festival offered a vibrant mix of music, culture, and community—the perfect way to unwind after a taxing year.

In a month characterized by erratic and unpredictable rain patterns, the skies seemed to take note of the festival’s importance. The clouds graciously held back, allowing the event to proceed without a hitch. It felt like nature itself conspired to make the day special.

A tale of two stages

The event featured two distinct stages, each catering to different musical tastes and vibes:

The Main Stage

This was the heart of live performances, showcasing a stellar lineup of artists who brought their A-game. Rising stars like Njerae and Xeniah delivered heartfelt performances that left the crowd yearning for more. Watendawili and Nyashinski captivated the audience, with Nyashinski surprising everyone by bringing Naiboi on stage. Naiboi went ahead and brought the roof down, a performance that more than compensated for the lack of a live band accompaniment for Nyashinski. Nyashinski’s performance, opening with his hit single DOPAMINE from his latest EP, was electric.

The highlight of the evening (in my opinion), however, was the legendary Necessary Noize. They transported the audience back to the golden era of Kenyan music, with nostalgic hits that had everyone singing along in unison. Coster Ojwang’s energetic set was another standout moment, leaving the crowd buzzing with excitement.

The Onja Onja Stage

For fans of afrohouse (fondly referred to as “Oontz Oontz”), the Onja Onja stage was the place to be. High-energy DJ sets kept the vibe alive, with performances from celebrated DJs like MGM, IV, and a back-to-back set by Vidza and Dylan S. Euggy’s explosive beats set the tone for an unforgettable night, culminating in Sir M’s closing set that left the crowd in awe.

Beyond the music

Blankets and Wine isn’t just about the music—it’s a cultural melting pot. The festival was a beautiful blend of fashion, food, and art, offering something for everyone. From trendy outfits that showcased Kenya’s unique fashion sense to the diverse culinary delights available at the food fair, the event was a feast for the senses.

The highs and the lows

As a first-time attendee, I was determined to soak in every moment, moving between stages to catch as many performances as possible. The atmosphere was infectious, and the sense of community was palpable. However, no event is without its challenges:

• Long Queues: Waiting to buy refreshments was time-consuming, which dampened the experience slightly.
• Security Concerns: While I didn’t lose any personal items, there were reports of stolen phones and other belongings, highlighting an area for improvement.

Despite these minor hiccups, the festival’s overall vibe remained positive and wholesome.

Looking ahead

Blankets and Wine 2024 was a remarkable experience that exceeded my expectations. From the incredible performances to the vibrant cultural showcase, it was a day well spent. As I reflect on the memories made, I find myself eagerly looking forward to the next edition. With a few tweaks in logistics and security, this festival has the potential to become even more extraordinary.

Blankets and Wine is not just a festival; it’s a celebration of Kenyan talent and culture. Whether you’re a first-time attendee or a seasoned fan, it offers an experience that stays with you long after the last note is played. As the saying goes, “You haven’t truly experienced Kenyan culture until you’ve attended Blankets and Wine.”

Mark your calendars for the next edition—it’s an event you won’t want to miss!

Read our review on Muze Open Air With Francis Mercier here.