Everton fan group ‘The 1878s' will unveil the first-ever flag at the Hill Dickinson Stadium during Saturday’s Premier League match against Nottingham Forest.
It marks an historic moment for supporters, who have been working hard to build a new matchday culture following the club’s emotional departure from Goodison Park.
The group announced the gesture on X, confirming that the flag will be dedicated to the Owen McVeigh Foundation, a local charity supporting children across Merseyside who are battling cancer, as well as their families.
Fan group explain reason behind first flag at Everton’s Hill Dickinson Stadium
In their statement, The 1878s explained the significance behind the tribute.
“On Saturday we will have one very special flag on display. This will be our first ever flag at our new home and it will be the only one waved this weekend. This flag is for the Owen McVeigh Foundation,” they wrote.
The foundation was created in memory of Owen McVeigh, a young Liverpool fan who passed away ten years ago at the age of 11 after battling cancer.
Despite the traditional rivalry between Liverpool and Everton, the charity’s work has become widely respected throughout the city, supporting families regardless of football allegiance.
To recognise the foundation’s impact, The 1878s invited Owen’s father, Mark, and lifelong Everton season-ticket holder Eddie Hincks to the Hill Dickinson Stadium to see the specially created blue version of the flag.
The group highlighted their direct involvement with the foundation, noting that several members have volunteered for some time and witnessed its life-changing work first-hand.
They added that close friends of the McVeigh family will wave the flag in the South Stand ahead of kick-off on Saturday.
“Cancer does not wear club colours and we are truly honoured to work with such a fantastic foundation,” the group said.
Building the atmosphere at Everton’s new home
Everton’s move to the Hill Dickinson Stadium in 2025 ended their 133-year stay at Goodison Park, and supporters have been determined to rebuild the famous atmosphere associated with the old ground.
Initiatives such as this tribute form part of that effort, ensuring that community spirit remains central to the club’s identity.
On the pitch, Everton sit 10th in the Premier League after 14 matches. They claimed a narrow 1-0 win at Bournemouth last weekend but suffered a heavy 4-1 defeat to Newcastle in their most recent home outing.
A positive performance against Nottingham Forest would offer the perfect backdrop for the unveiling of such a meaningful flag.
FGG Says
This gesture from The 1878s perfectly reflects the best of Merseyside football culture. Rivalries matter, but compassion matters more, and the decision to honour the Owen McVeigh Foundation at Everton’s new home demonstrates how deeply rooted community values remain across the city.
As supporters continue shaping the identity of the Hill Dickinson Stadium, initiatives like this help carry over the emotional warmth of Goodison Park. It is a tribute filled with dignity, unity, and genuine heart – exactly the kind of tradition that can define a new era for the club.