Crafters Unite for 24-Hour Knitathon, Raising Funds for Wellness Programs

On Saturday, November 11, 2025, Mural Arts Philadelphia kicked off its second-annual Knitathon, a 24-hour marathon event that drew in knitters, crocheters, and fiber-arts enthusiasts from across the region. The overnight craft circle, held at the Tacony LAB Community Art Center in Northeast Philadelphia, was designed to turn a typically solitary hobby into an accessible, community-driven experience.

The Knitathon offered a range of workshops, demonstrations, and round-the-clock guidance for beginners, allowing participants of all ages to learn new skills and connect with the local crafting community. The event also served as a fundraiser for Therapeutic CraftCare, an initiative that promotes both physical and mental health through creative wellness programs.

For some attendees, the Knitathon was their first time group crafting. "This is my first time knitting in a community actually, and it honestly feels great," said Mahnoor Bahktiar, who crocheted the sweater she wore to the event. Others, like ten-year-old Kennedy Austin, saw the marathon as an opportunity to pick up a new skill they hope to grow.

Throughout the event, instructors provided hands-on help to newcomers, while the all-nighter also kept things lighthearted with a yarn-untangling contest and a "quiet room" equipped with a bed for those who needed a break. Many participants left the Knitathon feeling accomplished, with a sense of purpose and connection to their community.