is an LGBTQIA+ dance event and drag show in Oxford, Mississippi. Founded in 2016 by Matt Kesler, the monthly, themed event takes place throughout several spaces on the Oxford Square.
Blake Summers, who is a Mississippi native and the current director, inherited the event partially because he did not have a safe space of his own growing up. The event has nearly tripled in size since its inaugural event eight years ago.
According to an interview with The Daily Mississippian, Summers as the current director has two main focuses: “create a safe space, and give young people opportunities,”. This mission has taken physical form by having students perform alongside drag queens that come from across the nation.
Their Halloween-themed "Fang Banger" is their most popular event, with the event in 2022 breaking records for one of their host venues. Anyone over the age of 18 can attend, with attendees ranging from local university students to natives of surrounding towns. For this particular event, all attendees are expected to show up in their best Halloween costumes.
Code Pink
The backdrop for the Code Pink "Fang Banger" drag show. Code Pink is the only drag show in the city of Oxford.
A patron tips a drag queen at Code Pink. Patrons can range from the University of Mississippi students to residents of surrounding areas looking for community.
An attendee dresses up in their best Halloween costume for Code Pink's "Fang Banger". The event is known around town to have well-dressed patrons.
A pride flag on the bar of the Lyric Theatre for Code Pink. The event is predominately hosted at the theatre, but can sometimes be hosted at other event halls around the area.
A drag queen performs at Code Pink's "Fang Banger". Code Pink broke a ticket-holding record during their "Fang Banger" last year.
The marquee at the Lyric Theatre in Oxford, Mississippi. This sign is a staple in downtown Oxford.