‘Masquerade Through Time:’ Oxford to host second annual Pride masked ball

Oxford will be hosting their second annual pride masked ball from 7 to 10 p.m. on March 14 in the Brant Ballroom at the Oxford Community Arts Center (OCAC). 

Marina Young, marketing and communications manager for Enjoy Oxford, acted as the lead coordinator of the event. She worked with neighboring communities and Miami University students to build an event she believes people in the area will benefit from.

“I hope for people to meet others that are kind of going through the same thing, have a night together, a mixed space,” Young said. “Especially those who have felt like they are isolated in this rural area.”

Young said Oxford Pride is geared towards millennials and Gen X, as their generations weren’t as accepting of the LGBTQIA+ community. She invites community members and allies to come as themselves and celebrate together, connecting Oxford and surrounding areas. 

The event stands out because – unlike most Prides – it’s not held in June.

“We want to celebrate Pride all year,” Young said.

With the help of attendees at Hamilton Pride last summer, Young created the theme: “Masquerade Through Time.” She invites attendees to wear a mask to express themselves through the fashion and era of time they most identify with.

The event will feature drag performances by P.H. Dee and Roxie D. Mocracy, a ballroom dance performance by Ohio Ballroom, free face painting and a DIY masquerade mask station by Opening Minds Through Art, with the chance to win prizes. 

A resource table will be set up for people looking for information or support in the LGBTQIA+ community. Refreshments include an Italian soda bar and sweet treats provided by Luke’s Custom Cakes.

Another way locals can support the community is to donate garments to the Open Door Clothes Closet, a free resource of clothing and accessories for transgender and gender diverse Miami University students. 

To contribute, people can drop off items at the donation bin inside the front door at Oxford Community Arts Center between 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.

Ticket holders also receive access to business collaborations, including discounts at Uptown Threads, KIKI THE BARBER + THE STYLE COLLECTIVE and Snazzy Boutique.

Tickets are available for $10 online at enjoyoxford.org/pride-prom or at the door. All ages are welcome.