There are many fine holiday events in Ocean Beach each year, but none have captured the imagination of San Diego’s local music community like the annual OB Farmers Market Food and Toy Drive. The festivities take place this year on Wednesday, Dec. 7 from 4 to 8 p.m. at the intersection of Newport Avenue and Bacon Street, giving OB residents a convenient location to drop off unwrapped toys or canned food items while taking in holiday tunes from some of the area’s favorite musicians. The toy drive features more than a dozen local performers playing acoustic versions of seasonal favorites. Artists scheduled to take part include Joey Harris, Chelsea Flor, Wendy Bailey, Dave Gilbert, Annie Rettic, and 3 Degrees Off Center. Originally helmed by musician Chuck Schiele, the Farmers Market Toy Drive is now organized by guitarist and producer Michael Head. Despite the outdoor, low-key nature of the event, he said there’s no problem finding artists to play. “It’s not hard to find performers,” Head said. “In fact, I feel bad because I have to turn some away.” He said all types of music are welcome, though he does have some criteria to help make the selection. “I try to find artists who have helped out the OB community all year long through their performances and activities off the stage as well,” Head said. “Anyone interested in doing acoustic holiday-themed music would otherwise be welcomed.” Head said he’s learning as he goes when it comes to putting the show together. “I’m still probably going to learn a lot this year,” he said. “Juggling the artists will be a cool trick — but I’m used to it.” In addition to local folks dropping off donations at the site, he hopes to get larger companies to also donate items. “I want to raise as much stuff as possible but it’s also part of the bigger OB Food and Toy Drive donation, so even if I can give a little it will be great.” He said the weather will be the biggest challenge, but he said the event will go on rain or shine. “I admit I was pretty much rained out last year,” he said. “But I had a few trooper performers who showed, including Mama Christy, John Tafoya and Joey Harris who still rocked the intimate but involved crowd.” For the artists, it’s an opportunity to enjoy an evening outdoors full of the holiday spirit, while helping the neighborhood. Items donated go directly to needy OB families and disadvantaged seniors through the Ocean Beach MainStreet Association. “Events like this encourage us to do something for our less-fortunate community,” Bailey said. “It’s a small way of helping out.”   Flor agrees. “Musicians, like myself, who contribute their music, are there to motivate everyone we can to be part of a great moment where we take care of our own. (It’s) real community spirit,” she said. Gilbert said the event truly shows what a special place Ocean Beach is. “Ocean Beach has been a wonderful place to live and the majority of Obeceans have a great sense of what makes a good neighbor. I really look forward to being a part of the festivities and know that everyone involved will reap the great reward of giving back to those less fortunate,” he said. “Especially in these tough economic times when so many families are struggling just to pay the rent, the toy drive is a great way for folks to give back to the community.” While Head stages many events each year, it’s the annual toy drive is a favorite. “Obviously, the holiday season and the idea that all of these great musicians get together for a great cause is such a cool thing,” he said. “The fact that we might help some people’s lives with music really appeals to most musicians. It’s usually even better than getting paid.” The Ocean Beach Farmers Market Food and Toy Drive takes place from 4 to 8 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 7 at Newport Avenue and Bacon Street. The event is free and open to all ages. For more information, visit www.myspace.com/johnmillermusic.