Yarnarchy 2026

Yarnarchy celebrates local craftivists with an annual yarn bomb festival. Wild crochet and playful knitted works of art are unleashed on the trees, seats and buildings of Ōtautahi Christchurch. This year Cathedral Square becomes an open air exhibition showcasing the incredible talent and creativity of our community. 

Some works are large scale solo pieces, others are comprised of hundreds of individual contributions. We invite anyone to be part of Yarnarchy and deliver workshops where craftivists of all levels can learn, and share their skills. All the yarn bombs - every single stitch - is made by hand and involves countless hours of innovation and creativity. 

This wool-inspired, public art festival brings colour and joy to the rebuilt city. From the public who thank us every time we install Yarnarchy to the craftivists who are encouraged to be bold, creative and put their work ‘out there’. Yarnarchy is a gift to the city of Ōtautahi Christchurch. 

Yarnarchy takes place on September 19th until October 18th. Note - once we gift Yarnarchy to the ‘Square’ anything can happen. We may have to remove installations before October 18th if they get vandalised.

This year we are also running a Yarnarchy Silent Disco Tour! Book your tickets here https://events.humanitix.com/yarnarchy-silent-disco-tour

This project is supported by Creative New Zealand through the Creative Communities Scheme. Christchurch City Council, Watch this Space and Silent Disco NZ.