September is serving up a brilliant mix of live music, local talent and something new to sip at the Covered Market. From a special collaborative beer launch and laid-back open mic night to live sets from Harry Quinn and Howlin’ Mat, there’s lots to enjoy as we head into autumn – alongside our much-loved weekly regulars. And remember most of these events are free!
Tap Social x Stroud Brewery Collab Beer Launch
Thurs 3 Sept | 11am–9pm @ The Covered Market Central Square w/Market Tap
Celebrate Organic September with the launch of Against the Grain, a brand-new collaboration between Tap Social Movement and Stroud Brewery. This organic 4.2% Extra Hazy Pale Ale has been brewed in Stroud and will make its official debut on draught and in cans at the Market Tap. Pop in and be among the first to give it a try! Free!
A Night of Music: Open Mic
Fri 4 Sept | 7–10pm @ Covered Market Central Square w/Market Tap
Oxford’s most central open mic night. All musical styles welcome. Sign up on arrival and enjoy a laid-back evening hosted by Nash. Free!
Harry Quinn
Sat 5 Sept | 7–10pm @ The Covered Market Central Square w/Market Tap
Settle in for an evening of live music from singer-songwriter Harry Quinn, blending grooving acoustic guitar, smooth vocals, covers and original songs designed to get heads nodding and toes tapping. Nine tracks from his 2025 album Sketches have featured on BBC Introducing. Free!
Market Tap Live!
Fri 18 Sept | 7:00pm @ The Covered Market Central Square w/Market Tapp
A Night of Music, hosted by Nash. Monthly live music showcase to The Market Tap, with top local talent performing in the historic Central Square setting of the Covered Market. Free!
Howlin’ Mat
Sat 19 Sept | 7–10pm @ The Covered Market Central Square w/Market Tap
Catch nomadic blues artist Howlin’ Mat as he brings his guitar wizardry to the Market Tap. Having played thousands of gigs around the world, his music has earned praise from legendary artists including Led Zeppelin’s John Paul Jones and Muddy Waters’ son Mud Morganfield. Free!
Plus weekly regulars…
The Woolhound Social Stitch – Every Thurs 5:30pm & Sat 10am @ Gulp Fiction – Free!
Ethiopian Coffee Ceremony – Every Thurs | 6pm @ Lula’s Ethiopian Café
Simpletons Quiz Night – Most Thurs | 7:30pm @ Gulp Fiction