The 7th annual Downtown on the Farm is set for Sunday, Sept. 21, 2025, returning once again to the beautiful Oaklands Mansion.
Originally started in 2017 as a fundraiser for Locally Owned Murfreesboro—a grassroots organization focused on strengthening the local small business community—Downtown on the Farm has become a cherished tradition in Rutherford County. This farm-to-table fundraising dinner highlights the best of local agriculture and culinary talent, with all ingredients sourced from Middle Tennessee farms and prepared by local chefs into an unforgettable dining experience.
For six years, proceeds from the event have funded scholarships for Rutherford County students enrolled in the Entrepreneurship Program at MTSU’s Jones College of Business. Though Locally Owned Murfreesboro has since sunset, former president Missy Lay has ensured the legacy continues. Through her small business, Wild Goose Chase Events, the event and its mission live on—supporting the next generation of entrepreneurs and celebrating the spirit of local community.
“The passion behind Downtown on the Farm has always been about investing in our small business community,” Lay said. “By helping students pursue their dream of entrepreneurship, we’re helping to create future leaders right here in Middle Tennessee.”
Chantell Joseph, an original Downtown on the Farm chef and founding event committee member, has once again returned to lend her talent and leadership. A fixture in the menu over the last six years, she is an integral part of the event. From coordinating with fellow chefs to helping shape the menu, her dedication has been a key ingredient in the event’s success from the very beginning.
“We love participating in Downtown on the Farm,” Joseph said. “We get to support local producers and help develop future entrepreneurs, all while being creative and sharing our talents and love for food with the local community.”
The evening will begin at 4:30 p.m. with signature cocktails and hors d’oeuvres, followed by dinner at 5:30 p.m. Tickets are $85 and include two drink tickets and a commemorative handmade cup crafted by a local potter. Local Americana duo The Howling Embers will perform from the porch of the mansion to entertain guests with their harmonies. Find tickets here.
This year’s culinary lineup features some of Murfreesboro’s most celebrated chefs, each bringing their unique talents and flavors to the table. Mitchell Murphree, owner of Five Senses, Steakhouse Five, and Five on Black, returns for his seventh year with his signature blend of fine dining and locally inspired cuisine. Charlie Eblen, pitmaster and owner of Single Tree BBQ, will infuse the menu with bold, smoky flavors. Chantell and Matthew Joseph of Simply Pure Sweets are known for their decadent desserts and artisan breads, and Bob Burford, owner of B.B. Creations, will round out the team with his creative culinary twists. This year’s menu will feature a Southwestern flair, promising a vibrant and unforgettable dining experience.
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