Oxford, Mississippi’s Old Armory Pavilion is known for hosting the Oxford Community Market (OXCM), a Tuesday afternoon gathering of farmers, bakers, musicians, and neighbors—but this fall, the spirit of the market will move to The Lyric for one special night of music, food, and community.
The Hometown Hootenanny, set for the evening of Sunday, November 30, is OXCM’s first large-scale fundraising event since 2018. The event promises “a big down-home country gathering,” says OXCM Director Betsy Chapman, who has led the market for more than a decade.
“We thought it would be a fun way to bring the community together and keep all of this great work going for years to come,” Chapman said. “This market has grown with our town. We’ve watched farmers start from scratch and build their businesses, and we’ve seen kids who came with their parents now volunteering as young adults.”
A Country Feast, Oxford-Style
At the heart of the Hootenanny will be a potluck-style dinner, showcasing the best of Oxford’s culinary and farming communities. Chapman describes it as an “old-fashioned country dinner,” inspired by the market’s beloved vendor potlucks featuring dishes prepared by local chefs, farmers, and bakers.
Chef Erika Lipe of SoLa is helping organize the culinary side of things, and she says the menu will be a true “smorgasbord of local goodies.”
Guests will enjoy a “farmer/chef potluck, with dishes from over a dozen local restaurants and twice as many farmers and makers,” Lipe said. “We’re leaning into the fall season—expect a soul food harvest feast that won’t soon be forgotten.”
Everything from classic Southern fare like yeast rolls, cornbread dressing, and cobblers, to comforting international dishes such as tamales, hummus, and lentils will also be offered.
“These aren’t catered dishes,” Lipe said. “They’re made like something you’d share at home—a real thanks-giving.”
Music, Pie Walks, and Western Wear
The Hootenanny won’t just feed the stomach—it’s designed to feed the soul, too. The night will include live music by The Great Dying, and vinyl spun by DJ David Swider of The End of All Music, as well as a western wear contest to go along with the theme.
“We will have a big set with some special guests,” said singer-songwriter Will Griffith of The Great Dying. “So happy to do anything for the farmers of our community. Can’t wait to eat—and play!”
Swider, a longtime supporter of local art and culture, said he’s proud to be part of the event. “The OXCM is a unique, weekly event that keeps the soul of Oxford alive,” he said. “What’s better than local folks supporting local farms? I’d argue that the market is just as important—if not more—than many facets of our growing city. We should do all we can to ensure its longevity, and throwing a party is an easy way to celebrate the market and raise funds and awareness. I’m excited to spin some records for the cause, and I hope I get to eat some of the local goodies. Hug a farmer today!”
Guests are encouraged to dust off their cowboy hats and boots or even pull out that vintage fringe jacket hiding in the closet.
And in true small-town fashion, there will be a pie walk, where winners will take home whole homemade pies baked by local cooks and market friends. “We’ve got folks in this town who can bake a pie that’ll make you cry,” Chapman said, laughing. “So we thought, why not make it part of the fun?”
A silent auction will also feature a wide range of locally donated art, goods, and experiences—everything from handmade pottery and jewelry to restaurant gift cards and local services.
Community at Its Core
The Oxford Community Market is much more than a place to buy produce. In addition to hosting weekly markets, OXCM helps improve local food access in meaningful ways. Through programs like the Harvest Angel Project, SNAP matching, and regular donations to The Pantry, the market ensures that fresh, healthy food reaches everyone in the community.
Each week, unsold produce is purchased from farmers and delivered to the Pantry for Wednesday distribution. In November, the market will also prepare 250 bags of locally produced Thanksgiving foods, from eggs and bread to honey and greens, to be given to families in need.
“Oxford is such a special place because people step up to support causes like this,” Chapman said. “From the farmers and chefs to the musicians and customers who bake pies, everyone is playing a role in making it happen.”
As Chapman puts it, the night will be “a big party like we do every Tuesday afternoon—just a little bigger—in service of keeping our market and our community thriving.”
About the Author
where can we purchase tickets? Will they be available at the door?