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To celebrate Nelson Mandela Day on 18 July 2026, something rather interesting is happening at Hyde Park Corner.
The shopping centre's Centre Court will host what is believed to be the world’s largest handmade scarf chandelier to mark a decade of the Secret Scarves Shh... campaign, which is run by 67 Blankets.
This has been made possible thanks to the 67 Blankets Gauteng KnitWits, who created the chandelier especially for the Mandela Day celebrations and to continue to build awareness around those who need our assistance.
In association with the Yarn by Design Expo, a décor and design showcase which will activate at Hyde Park Corner from 18 to 30 July 2026, Joburgers can get involved by knitting, crocheting or donating wool to help this very worthy cause - and check out the massive, fluffy chandelier.
The special scarf chandelier will hang proudly above the Yarn by Design Expo installation on Mandela Day.
READ: This Sandton City pop-up will be gone soon
What is the Secret Scarves Shh... campaign?
Over the last 10 years, the Secret Scarves Shh... campaign has morphed into a nationwide movement of kindness.
The original campaign saw people leaving hand-knitted and crocheted scarves in public spaces for someone in need to use.
Made by volunteers known as the KnitWits of 67 Blankets, the donated scarves now sit in the thousands, having been left in parks, on fences, around trees, and in public spaces right across South Africa.
“What started ten years ago as leaving handmade scarves in public places for people in need has grown into a nationwide movement rooted in compassion,” says Carolyn Steyn, founder of 67 Blankets for Nelson Mandela Day.
“Every scarf represents warmth, dignity, and hope, and we are proud of the thousands of people who have embraced this simple idea and helped it grow into a national movement.”
The giant chandelier in the room
“Hyde Park Corner is proud to open its doors to the Secret Scarves Shh... campaign as it celebrates a decade of warmth and connection,” says Sheree McHaffie, Hyde Park Corner marketing spokesperson.
“The scarf chandelier suspended above Centre Court is a striking symbol of what a caring community can build together, one stitch at a time. We hope our shoppers will stop by, pick up a needle or simply take a scarf home for someone who needs it.”
Every scarf that makes up the giant chandelier is emblazoned with the campaign’s motto of: I AM NOT LOST. If you are cold and need me, please take me. Love, 67 Blankets xxx.
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