Join the 67 Blankets for Nelson Mandela Day: celebrating creativity and community
Volunteers busy with creating the world's biggest blanket at a previous Mandela Day event.
Image: Supplied
In a vibrant celebration of creativity and community spirit, 67 Blankets for Nelson Mandela Day is poised to mark World Creativity and Innovation Day on 18 April 2026. This beloved South African initiative will unite knitters, crocheters, families, and supporters in joyous gatherings across Johannesburg and several other cities, transforming simple acts of creativity into warmth and dignity for those in need.
The heartbeat of the movement will resonate at the City Centre at Steyn City in Johannesburg. This lively venue will host a Family Day Out from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm, where the community can revel in colourful blanket displays and partake in creative activities. Visitors will witness the unmistakable spirit that has become synonymous with 67 Blankets, a movement that started as a small endeavour and has blossomed into a nationwide mission.
Knitters and crocheters are urged to bring their blankets to several events around the country. Those that don't have knitted blanket can donate wool.
Image: Supplied
Across the country, other events will take place, from a World Creativity Picnic at Pearson Conservatory in Gqeberha to the Creativity and Innovation Day in Cape Town. Each gathering is an invitation for the public to bring their yarn, knitting needles, or crochet hooks, joining hundreds of fellow volunteers in crafting blankets destined to provide warmth to vulnerable South Africans.
The recent leadership transition within the organisation signifies an exciting new chapter. Annie Robinson Grealy steps into the role of Operations Head, succeeding founder Carolyn Steyn, who will continue to inspire growth and guide the movement at an executive level. Steyn expressed confidence in Robinson Grealy, stating, “Annie’s passion, organisational skills, and deep commitment to the movement make her the perfect person to help guide our operations as we continue to expand our impact across South Africa.”
Robinson Grealy echoed the sentiment, stating, “This movement has touched thousands of lives and continues to grow because of the unwavering generosity of ordinary South Africans. My focus is to support and strengthen the incredible network of ambassadors and volunteers who make it all possible.”
Since its inception, 67 Blankets for Nelson Mandela Day has mobilised thousands of volunteers, producing blankets that have warmed the hearts of communities in hospitals, shelters, and schools, while fostering connections among diverse groups. The gatherings on 18 April present an opportunity for families, experienced crafters, and beginners alike to absorb the profound 67 Blankets ethos—turning yarn into acts of kindness.
The details for the Nelson Mandela Day event in Cape Town.
Image: Supplied
Event details are as follows:
- Johannesburg – Family Day OutCity Centre, Steyn City18 April 2026, Free entryBlanket displays, creativity, and family gatherings, 9:00 am – 3:00 pmPop up food outlets on site
- Gqeberha – World Creativity PicnicPearson Conservatory, St George’s Park18 April 2026, 9:30 am – 12:00 pmEntry: One ball of wool
- Cape Town – Creativity and Innovation DayCongregational Church, 222 Main Road, Claremont18 April 2026, Free entryBring along your handmade Creativity and Innovation blankets to be displayed, 9:00 am – 1:00 pm.Wool donations are welcome; it's a 'Bring and Share' eats event.
- Durban (Westville) – Westville Social Knitwits GatheringWestville Methodist Church, Jan Hofmeyr Road, Westville11 April 2026, Free entryView beautiful blanket creations and meet the Westville Social Knitwits community. Tea and cake served on arrival, 10:00 am – 12:00 pm
- White River – Creative Gathering & Easter ActivationMethodist Church HallWhite River Knitwits will host two special gatheringsLaunch and lunch to unveil their Giant Easter Egg installation on 21 April – UN Day of Innovation & CreativityA vibrant display of creative blankets with guest speaker Felicity Bell, an artist sharing her creative journey. Time: 14:00 Open to the public.