A Night to Remember: Our 2025 Farm-to-Table Dinner Recap

On Sunday evening, November 9, 2025, the historic Thomas Cotton Gin was transformed into a glowing celebration of community, creativity, and the incredible abundance grown right here in Oconee County. What began as an idea rooted in gratitude and connection blossomed into a truly unforgettable night — one filled with laughter, music, generosity, and the unmistakable spirit of local love.

A Menu Crafted With Heart

Chef José Zambrano, brought our farmers’ harvest to life with breathtaking artistry. From the locally produced beef hind quarter, to tender lamb shanks and perfectly prepared quail, every dish told a story — a story of hands that planted, tended, harvested, and prepared with intention. Fresh produce from our beloved farms filled the tables: collards, turnips, okra, mushrooms, lettuce, figs, local honey, sourdough, goat cheese, homemade cakes, pies… the list (and flavor) went on and on.

It cannot be said enough: this night simply could

not have happened without José — his mastery, his generosity, his joy, and that infectious smile that warmed the entire event.

A Community Gathering Like No Other

Guests arrived to the soft harmonies of Art Grider and The Solstice Sisters, setting the perfect tone for fellowship. The Cotton Gin — with its rustic beams and soft glow — became a place of connection. Neighbors met neighbors. Vendors mingled with customers. Farmers stood proudly by the fruits of their year-round labor.

Our Beta Club volunteers served hors d’oeuvres with grace (and plenty of smiles!), making everyone feel welcomed the moment they arrived.

Art Grider

Solstice Sisters

The Silent Auction

The creativity and generosity on display through the silent auction was incredible. From handcrafted goods, experiences, gift baskets, and artisan products — each donation represented a small business, a farm, or a local creative who believes in our mission. And the support was overwhelming. Every bid, every donation, every shared moment showed just how deeply our community values the Oconee Farmers Market and our partnering organizations.

Gratitude Beyond Words

This night was a labor of love — and it took all of us.

To our farmers, who work tirelessly to grow the food we celebrate. To our vendors, whose artistry and craftsmanship bring beauty to Wire Park each week. To our sponsors, whose generosity allowed this dream to come alive. To our Rotary Club partners, our volunteers, our planning team, and every person who bought a ticket or lifted us up with encouragement along the way… thank you.

Your belief in this market and in this community is the reason we continue to grow.

Looking Ahead

The Farm-to-Table Dinner was more than an event — it was a reminder of who we are at our best: connected, collaborative, joyful, and deeply rooted in supporting one another.

As we look toward next year, my heart is full. Full of gratitude. Full of ideas. Full of excitement for what we can build together.

Here’s to the farmers, the makers, the families, the volunteers, and the friends who make Oconee Farmers Market the heart of Wire Park.

With deepest appreciation,

Carol Gurley

Market Director, Oconee Farmers Market