Ghana Party in the Park closed early after entrance crush injures attendees

Ghana Party in the Park, an annual festival celebrating Ghanaian culture, was shut down early on Saturday after an overcrowding incident at the entrance to Copthall Playing Fields in Barnet. Several attendees sustained non-life-threatening injuries, according to statements from Barnet Council and the Metropolitan Police.

The event, which typically attracts over 8,000 people, was described by organisers as a "cultural festival celebrating the very best of Ghanaian music, culture, food, fashion and community." It has been held in London since 2005 and is billed as the largest Ghanaian event outside of Ghana.

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Emergency response and closure

Footage shared on social media showed dozens of emergency vehicles, including air ambulances, at the scene. Witnesses reported seeing injured attendees being carried away on stretchers. Kieran Turnbull, 18, told *The Sun* he saw a "stampede" at the main entrance where bag searches were taking place.

Another attendee told the *Daily Mail* that two air ambulances had landed to transport some of the injured. They added that around 1,000 people were stranded outside the venue from 2 pm, unable to enter. The Metropolitan Police confirmed the event was cancelled due to an "overcrowding issue at the entrance."

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Organisers issued a statement on Saturday evening, saying the decision to close the festival was made "solely on the grounds of health and safety." They added that discussions with emergency services and their health and safety team led to the conclusion that closing the event was the safest option.

““Following the unfortunate incident at today's event, we wish to provide an update regarding the abrupt closure of Ghana in the Park. The decision to close the festival was made solely on the grounds of health and safety.””

Ghana Party in the Park organisers

The statement also addressed speculation about stabbings and deaths, clarifying that no such incidents had occurred. Earlier in the day, organisers had described the situation as a "major incident" and asked festivalgoers to stay away from the area.

Council and police statements

A spokesman for Barnet Council said the event had ended early after the overcrowding incident. They confirmed that police and council officers were on site and urged residents to avoid the area. The Metropolitan Police echoed this advice, stating that officers were present at Copthall Playing Fields following the cancellation.

The London Ambulance Service and London Fire Brigade also responded to the scene. The extent of the injuries and the number of people affected remain unclear. Neither the council nor the police have released further details about the cause of the overcrowding or whether any charges will be brought.

What happens next

Barnet Council and the Metropolitan Police have not indicated whether an investigation into the incident will take place. Organisers have not yet announced whether the event will return to Copthall Playing Fields in future years. Residents are advised to monitor updates from Barnet Council and the police for further information.