a day ago
Oxford Arts Council launches writing contest celebrating city's best moments
OXFORD — The Oxford Arts Council is inviting local residents and former residents to showcase the city's most inspiring stories through a writing competition that aims to capture the heart of community spirit.
Cindy Williams, president of the Oxford Arts Council, explained the contest's focus.
"We want participants to write about 'Oxford, Alabama At Its Best,'" Williams said. "It might be a place that epitomizes our community, a humorous historical moment or a person or group that truly represents what makes Oxford special."
The writing contest is open to adults 19 and older who are current or former residents of Oxford and surrounding communities, including Dearmanville and Coldwater. Participants can submit either poetry or an essay with a 500-word limit, focusing on positive narratives that highlight the city's character.
"We want it to be very creative," Williams noted, "but the key is to present something positive — a memory or story that truly captures the essence of our community."
The competition follows a similar contest for local students, which was part of a broader initiative by the city's marketing team to engage community members. Entries will be accepted through June 16 and should be emailed to oxfordartscouncil@
Winners will be announced during the Fourth of July celebration at Oxford Lake's Veterans Park, following the annual parade. The Oxford Access magazine will feature the winning entries, and the arts council plans to highlight winners on social media.
"This is an opportunity for our residents to share what makes Oxford truly special," Williams said. "We're excited to see the stories that emerge."
Participants are encouraged to submit creative, uplifting narratives that showcase the community's unique character and spirit. The contest represents a unique opportunity for local writers to celebrate their hometown and share meaningful memories.
For more information, contact the Oxford Arts Council.
