CultureFest organizers ask Oxford Board of Commissioners for city funding after 2025 turnout

Ajulo Odo, treasurer of the John Chavis Historical Society, told the Oxford Board of Commissioners on May 13 that CultureFest drew thousands and asked the city to provide financial support for the festival in 2025 and future years.

Odo presented participation and operations data from the festival, noting last year’s move to Main Street, expanded programming and a vendor presence. ‘‘We had 49 paid vendors, 10 nonprofits, 24 food trucks and an estimated 4,400 attendees,’’ Odo said, summarizing the event’s reach and volunteer support. He formally asked the city to support CultureFest financially this year and going forward.

The request followed a city proclamation recognizing community organizations and celebrations earlier in the meeting. Commissioner Curtis McCray and other commissioners praised the festival’s growth and volunteer base; McCray thanked organizers and noted the event ‘‘was phenomenal’’ and helped present a positive image of Oxford.

Organizers emphasized CultureFest’s cultural programming (including performers from the Haliwa‑Sappony Nation, Tahitian and Chinese dancers, local school performances and family activities) and described its volunteer and vendor logistics. Odo said the John Chavis Historical Society has coordinated CultureFest as part of its mission to preserve history and celebrate culture.

The board did not take a formal vote on direct funding at the meeting. Commissioners expressed appreciation for the festival and said they would consider the formal written request previously submitted by organizers when they address the budget and upcoming funding decisions.

Next steps: organizers said they have submitted a formal request in writing and asked the commission to consider it during the city’s budget process.