Africa Oyé, the UK’s largest free celebration of African and Caribbean music and culture, returns to Sefton Park for another unforgettable summer weekend. Every year, tens of thousands of visitors travel to Liverpool to experience this vibrant, family-friendly festival, which has become one of the most important cultural gatherings in the country.
Set across a beautiful open-air park setting, Africa Oyé brings together internationally acclaimed artists from across the African continent and the global Black diaspora. Expect an exciting mix of Afrobeat, reggae, highlife, soukous, amapiano, Afro-jazz and contemporary Black British sounds, performed on a large outdoor stage with an atmosphere full of colour, rhythm and energy. Previous performers have included celebrated musicians from West Africa, East Africa, Southern Africa and the Caribbean, alongside emerging UK-based artists representing the richness of the diaspora.
Beyond the main music stage, the Oyé Village offers dance workshops, drumming circles, spoken-word sessions, children’s activities, craft stalls, and a food market featuring dishes from across Africa and the Caribbean. From traditional garments and handmade jewellery to Black-owned businesses and community heritage stalls, the festival showcases a wide variety of cultural expressions.
Africa Oyé is more than a music festival — it is a living celebration of identity, heritage and creativity. Rooted in community values, it plays a vital role in platforming artists rarely seen on large UK stages while also giving space to local cultural groups and grassroots performers. The festival’s commitment to inclusivity, representation and free access makes it a highlight of the summer calendar and a must-attend event for those interested in African culture, diasporic arts and outdoor community celebration.