7th Annual Downtown on the Farm Returns to Oaklands Mansion Sept. 21
The 7th annual Downtown on the Farm is set for Sunday, Sept. 21, 2025, returning once again to the historic Oaklands Mansion in Murfreesboro.
Originally launched in 2017 as a fundraiser for Locally Owned Murfreesboro, Downtown on the Farm has grown into a cherished community tradition celebrating local food, farms, and entrepreneurship. This farm-to-table dinner showcases ingredients sourced from Middle Tennessee farms, transformed into an unforgettable culinary experience by some of the area’s top chefs.
For six years, event proceeds have funded scholarships for Rutherford County students in the Entrepreneurship Program at MTSU’s Jones College of Business. Though Locally Owned Murfreesboro has since sunset, former president Missy Lay continues the mission through her company, Wild Goose Chase Events.
“The passion behind Downtown on the Farm has always been about investing in our small business community,” said Lay. “By helping students pursue their dream of entrepreneurship, we’re helping to create future leaders right here in Middle Tennessee.”
Longtime supporter and chef Chantell Joseph of Simply Pure Sweets also returns this year, bringing both her culinary talent and her leadership as a founding committee member.
“We love participating in Downtown on the Farm,” Joseph said. “We get to support local producers and help develop future entrepreneurs, all while sharing our talents and love for food with the community.”
Event Details
- When: Sunday, Sept. 21, 2025 – Cocktails & hors d’oeuvres at 4:30 p.m., dinner at 5:30 p.m.
- Where: Oaklands Mansion, Murfreesboro
- Tickets: $85 (includes two drink tickets + commemorative handmade cup by a local potter)
- Entertainment: Live Americana music from The Howling Embers
2025 Culinary Lineup
- Mitchell Murphree (Five Senses, Steakhouse Five, Five on Black)
- Charlie Eblen (Single Tree BBQ)
- Chantell & Matthew Joseph (Simply Pure Sweets)
- Bob Burford (B.B. Creations)
This year’s menu will highlight a Southwestern flair, blending bold flavors with fresh, local ingredients.
Sponsorship opportunities are available. To sponsor or learn more, contact Missy Lay at info@wildgoosechase.events or visit wildgoosechase.events/downtown.
