Blankets & Wine, Nairobi’s celebrated music and lifestyle festival, is making a grand return on June 29, 2025, at Laureate Gardens, Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani. This edition marks 16 years since the festival began showcasing Africa’s rich and diverse music scene, and the organisers have promised an unforgettable experience for fans across the region.
Headlining this year’s event is South African sensation Mi Casa, whose soulful house music and electric stage presence have won hearts across the continent. Joining them is Kenya’s very own Matata, a high-energy group known for their vibrant fusion of Gengetone and Afrobeats, paired with choreography that always gets the crowd moving. The legendary Saida Karoli from Tanzania will bring her signature sound, which blends traditional rhythms with contemporary Bongo Flava and Taarab influences. Uganda’s rising star Joshua Baraka is also set to perform, adding his unique dancehall-inspired sound to the festival’s powerful lineup.
Kenyan talent will be strongly represented with performances by Ssaru, who continues to innovate within the Gengetone and Afrobeats scenes, and Serro, whose modern take on Kenyan folk music has earned her widespread acclaim. Emerging acts like Shad Mziki and We Are Nubia will add a fresh touch with their soulful pop and R&B styles.
For lovers of electronic African music, the Onja Onja Stage will feature artists and DJs pushing sonic boundaries. The stage will host sets from Akoth Jumadi & Mr. Lu, Coco Kahi, DJ IV, DJ Bune, Ghedi, Hiribae, Paps, and DJ Ite, creating a diverse and dance-worthy atmosphere.
Festival founder Muthoni Drummer Queen expressed her excitement, noting that this year’s edition features 17 outstanding African artists and is designed to offer exceptional value to music lovers. In addition to the music, the festival includes a vibrant Family Zone for kids and the Onja Onja Market, which will showcase the best of Kenyan food, fashion, art, and culture.
In a major milestone, Blankets & Wine will also expand beyond Kenya for the first time, with a UK edition scheduled for September 6, 2025, in Bradford. This marks a significant step in the festival’s mission to bring African creativity to a global audience.
Tickets for the Nairobi edition are currently available, with fans encouraged to book early for what promises to be one of the biggest cultural events of the year.
