Popular Blankets And Wine Concert Cancelled Amid Looming June 25 Protests
They specifically cited the anticipated nationwide demonstrations on Wednesday, June 25, warning that any unrest witnessed on that day could have consequences that could spill over to the event.
Marvin Chege 
Blankets and Wine has announced that the June edition of the iconic concert series has been cancelled over security concerns.
Originally slated for Sunday, June 29 and set to feature international artistes, the organisers revealed in a statement that the decision to cancel the event, one which they termed as 'necessary', was informed by the ongoing unrest within the country.
They specifically cited the anticipated nationwide demonstrations on Wednesday, June 25, warning that any unrest witnessed on that day could have consequences that could spill over to the event.
"This decision has been made after deep consultations with our security teams and partners who have flagged the situation as volatile and high risk with regards to potential damage to property and physical harm to setup teams," the organisers stated in part.
A past Blankets and Wine event. /HELLO TRAVEL
The organisers emphasised that, although a lot had been invested in the event—as reflected in its large-scale production—the safety of the Blankets community remained their top priority. They also voiced their solidarity with fellow Kenyans amid the current heightened political tensions.
Everyone who purchased tickets for the event will receive a full refund, while season ticket holders will get a partial refund covering the June event. All refunds will be issued within 14 working days through the original payment method.
"Our work is creating and holding space for joy, and while we had planned an exciting experience this June, given the size and scale of our production, we believe it is imperative to prioritise security for our community while also standing in solidarity with fellow Kenyans," added the statement.
"We acknowledge your disappointment and deeply apologise for all the inconvenience caused. Truly, we are sorry. There will be a full refund for all tickets purchased for the June edition, and for season ticket holders, a proportional refund for the June portion of the ticket will be issued. Refunds will be processed within 14 working days via your original payment method."
The concert was to feature acts such as Mi Casa, South Africa’s soulful house trio renowned for global hits like “Jika” and “Tulale Fofofo”, as well as Kenya's Sauti Sol, Matata, Ssaru and Serro, among others.
Not too long ago, the organisers had introduced a 'Lipa PolePole' option for concertgoers unable to pay the full cost of the event upfront, allowing them to make payments in instalments in line with the high cost of living in the country.
Blankets & Wine is set to make its United Kingdom (UK) debut in a major milestone for the festival. The event will be held at Lister Park in Bradford City on September 6, 2025, in collaboration with the British Council as part of the UK/Kenya Season 2025. This move marks a major step in taking Kenyan and African talent to the global stage.
Last week, the families formally submitted a notification at Central Police Station, requesting permission to hold what they described as a “peaceful march” in memory of the fallen youth. The march is expected to proceed to the Office of the President and Parliament, where participants will lay flowers to commemorate the lives lost.
Nairobi Regional Police Commander George Sedah confirmed on Thursday, June 19, that the notice had been received and assured that police would offer protection to those participating. Still, concerns remain about whether the demonstration will stay peaceful, as fears grow over potential infiltration by hired goons, as was the case in the previous protests on June 17.
People attend a demonstration against Kenya's proposed finance bill in Nairobi, Kenya, June 25. /REUTERS
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