Any newcomer or visitor to Oxford can tell there is a whole lot going on in this town. From the famous Square to Rowan Oak to the Grove on the gorgeous campus of Ole Miss, Oxford is a pretty happening place. Whether in town for just a weekend or for four years of college, there are quite a few locales that can kickstart a tremendous evening. Be careful though; you may end up wanting to stay in Oxford for the rest of your life.
Ajax Diner may be known for its southern-style plate lunches and homemade Bloody Marys, but on many weekend nights live bands can be found performing near the front of the restaurant and bar. One of the hottest spots on the Oxford Square, Ajax transforms from a down-home eatery to a juke joint from day to night.
In 2013, Proud Larry’s was included in the top ten of Complex Magazine’s 25 Best College Campus Bars. Although Larry’s website boasts the tagline “Come for the food. Stay for the music,” the list of world-renowned acts who have stopped by the venue to play on tour is enormous. Acts like Modest Mouse and Drive-By Truckers have played sets at Proud Larry’s, along with local groups on the rise, such as Holy Ghost Electric Show and Bass Drum of Death. The bar’s atmosphere facilitates an up-close-and personal, intimate exchange between performers and audience members. Upcoming shows this fall include appearances from Young Buffalo and early-2000s pop sensation, Aaron Carter.
The Lyric is known for housing some of the most dynamic musical performances and parties each year in Oxford. That’s not bad for a building that was erected in the late nineteenth century as a stable for the Faulkner family. With a large dance floor, three bars and a balcony area, The Lyric can serve as a unique destination for a fun time. A mix of artists ranging from blues, electronica, hip-hop and rock take the stage on tour. This fall will see Ca$h-Out, Que, and Big Smo among the list of performers. The hall can be rented out for special events, as well.
Lamar Lounge specializes in a barbecue menu that locals rave about. The nightlife, however, is where the lounge truly comes to life. Built by Fat Possum Records, live music is a priority for the bar. It’s the perfect place to sit back and ease into the blues-inspired sights and sounds.
Owned by Dennis Herring, Sweet Tea Recording Studio is steeped in the history of modern music. The likes of Buddy Guy, Counting Crows and Elvis Costello have laid down popular tracks within the walls. If you have aspirations to make it big some day, it wouldn’t be a bad idea to give them a call. Maybe the luck of the legends that have made the trip to Oxford to record in the 24-track studio can rub off.
The Gertrude C. Ford Center is The University of Mississippi’s most prestigious arts center. Situated right on campus, the performing arts center opens its doors for more than 150 events each year. From musical guests, lectures, campus events, plays and Broadway performances, the Ford Center schedule is packed to the brim with opportunities to experience a vast array of cultural enrichment.
Located underneath women’s retail store Miss Behavin, The Blind Pig is not hard to miss. One trip down the stairs to the pub makes for a rewarding evening. The bar boasts a speakeasy feel that takes visitors back to a time where bars were the centers of American societies. While the kitchen is open, The Pig turns out some delicious sandwiches. In the later hours of the night, however, it becomes a great place to hang around, play pool, throw darts or listen to bands jam.
Frank and Marlee’s wing specials and signature burger, Cowboy Killa, are known to bring out large crowds. Frank and Marlee’s is one of the best places in town to watch the game with a table full of buds, while listening to live local tunes.
One of the better-kept secrets in town is Funky’s amazing pizza to compliment their popular daiquiri blends. Located along the far end of the Square’s infamous “alley,” it is easy to find by the loud party jams that blare from its open doors.
Irie is a seafood staple on the Square, perfect for a romantic evening, due to it’s subtle ambience. Although it is noted for its touch of class, Irie comes alive when bands play inside during the weekends. It is a common sight to walk past and see a ton of couples dancing the night away. Come on inside and join the fanfare.
The Round Table is known for its fair share of thrills. The menu has a wide assortment of options, such as the popular Rebel Dip. Every weekend is a party at Round Table, where music and drinks flow all night from their patio area.
The Corner Bar is one of the best places for the 18+ crowd to get a taste of Oxford nightlife. The massive expansion to the facility includes an outdoor patio where fresh air merges with the fantastic indoor vibe. Local artists perform right on the floor of the bar, allowing partiers to feel like a part of the action.
-Jared Boyd
