A large section of Sefton Park's north-western Review Field has been cordoned off with towering green fences. The barriers span Mossley Hill Drive, extending through Croxteth Drive and the internal walkways of the park.
Preparations for Africa Oyé 2026
A portion of the Croxteth Gate car park is serving as the main production entrance for the return of Africa Oyé this weekend, following a fallow year in 2025. Organizers of the UK's largest celebration of African and Caribbean music and culture opted to take a year off due to rising infrastructure costs, changing legislation, and the increasing challenge of keeping the event free.
A Brief History
The festival began in 1992 as a series of gigs in Liverpool city centre, founded by Kenny Murray. Over the past 33 years, it has grown and moved through multiple venues, including Birkenhead Park, Princes Park, Concert Square, and Sefton Park since 2002.
First Ticketed Event
This year's celebration marks the first ticketed Africa Oyé in Sefton Park. Organizers are committed to keeping it as affordable as possible for attendees.
Paul Duhaney, artistic director of Africa Oyé, stated: "We couldn't let the festival just disappear off the UK's cultural calendar. The Board, myself, and the team all agreed that a paid event would be a much better alternative to no Oyé at all, and I hope our loyal audience agree with the decision and keep showing us the support they always have."
He added: "The change will enable us to maintain and build on the quality of the event that people have come to expect and ensure that those attending can do so in a safe and relaxed environment."
Road Closures and Restrictions
Several road closures will be in place on Saturday, June 20, and Sunday, June 21. Entry to Aigburth Drive and Croxteth Drive will be closed to general traffic, except for residents and staff. The Croxteth Gate car park will be a restricted area with no public access until Wednesday, June 24, at 8pm. The Review Field will remain closed to the public until Tuesday, June 23, at 8pm.
Community Spirit
Paul Duhaney emphasized the festival's importance: "I think a festival like Oyé is good for everybody. It reminds us who we are as a nation and there's a lot of good things about this country that need to be celebrated. The festival is an African music festival, but everybody's welcome."
He concluded: "That's the way we've always been. We've never had any political or religious beliefs. For that weekend, everybody comes as one and it's all about enjoying the music and everything that's on offer."
