Africa Oyé announces new family zone for 2026

With an enhanced programme for families – this new area of the festival site will feature dance, storytelling, singing, drumming, a host of creative workshops, games, and a range of arts and crafts and child-friendly entertainment.

Building on the festival’s 18 year relationship with world dance specialists Movema, and the always-popular Oyé Active Zone, the festival continues this partnership to launch the new Family Zone at Oyé ’26.

The Oyé Family Zone will host the Movema Dance Tent and new Kukina Creative Tent featuring relaxing and inspiring African Diaspora inspired activities, including storytelling, singing, drumming, arts, crafts, dance and holistic practices. They will be complemented with family friendly performances, creative activities, and educational and environmental workshops – creating a diverse and vibrant area for all ages to enjoy.

On the Sunday of the festival, expect huge beats from the Afro-Brazilian mega-bloco Katumba as they collaborate with Dancing Queens to parade around the festival site, creating a rhythmic explosion as Caribbean carnival meets Brazilian carnival. Join the parade!

More returning favourites include the LFC Foundation with sporting activities for all, and take action on plastics – with Plastic Tactics’ workshops running across the weekend.

Since 2023, the festival’s Dance Tent has been programmed collaboratively by Movema with local artists from the African Diaspora, and in 2026, Afro Dance Academy are guest curators of both the Dance and Kukina tents.

Afro Dance Academy is an artist collective based in Liverpool, celebrating African Diaspora dance through workshops, events and performances. From local talent to international artists – their work creates bridges between cultures and brings people together through the love of movement.

The curators, Afro Dance Academy, have named the new tent ‘Kukina’, from the Kimbundu language of Angola.

Dorivalda from Afro Dance Academy says:

“Kukina, for us, it’s movement and more, it’s connection. It’s the way stories are shared without words, the way generations meet in rhythm, the way strangers become family. We named our tent “Kukina” because everyone belongs here. No matter where you come from, how you move, or who you are — you’re invited to step in, join the circle, and be part of something bigger. This is a space for learning and togetherness. A space where culture lives, breathes, and welcomes all. Come show your art and get creative with us.”