Oxford’s Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area

Oxford’s Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area (DORA) goes into effect daily from 11 AM – 11 PM. (The inaugural launch was on June 25th, 2020, coinciding with the first Red Brick Friday.) This has been an exciting development for our town and we hope you’ll enjoy your favorite drinks and all that Uptown, Oxford has to offer. So, enjoy the weather and explore the shops and businesses with your DORA bevy! 

group of five people toasting with DORA beverages

What is DORA?

DORA stands for Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area. This is a specific area, often spanning several streets, where patrons can purchase alcoholic beverages from participating businesses and then take those drinks outside to enjoy.

DORA boundary map stretches from Elm street to Campus Ave. and Church street and Walnut Street.

When can I enjoy the DORA?

DORA is in effect every day from 11:00 am to 11:00 pm!

Do I need a special cup?

Good question! And yes, you do! To participate in DORA, visit approved bars and restaurants (see list below) and ask for your drink in a DORA cup.

Hand holding a dora cup filled with beer, twinkle lights in the background

*DORA cups will have the logo (above) printed on the cup. Hot DORA beverages will be labeled with a DORA sticker.

Where can I buy a DORA drink in Oxford?

Tip: Contact to verify business hours

Can I shop with my DORA drink?

Yes! While walking Uptown, you will see a DORA sticker on the business or venue windows that allow outside DORA drinks.

A green background with purple lettering and buildings.

Can I bring my own alcohol uptown?

No, DORA is made available to support our local businesses and restaurants, let’s show them some love!

What can I do with my cups?

DORA cups are single-use (for health & safety reasons) but, our DORA cups are compostable! We encourage you to visit the City of Oxford composting page and drop off your cup at the green compost bins located at the TRI Community Center. At special events look out for an artistic DORA cup bin (see image below) at events like Red Brick Fridays, Uptown Music Series, and OXtoberfest.

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