Fighting Hunger One Bowl at a time

Our History

Serving McKinney

The Tradition that is
Empty Bowls McKinney

Going into our Fifteenth Year

For the past 14 years, Empty Bowls McKinney attendees have gathered to select a hand-made ceramic bowls, sample food from local restaurants, and raise money to fight food insecurity in their community.

Local artists donate handmade bowls that are a key part of the annual event, which has traditionally taken place on the square in downtown McKinney. For 2026 we will be at Tupps Brewery!! We are excited about having more spaces for our guests, the bowls and the food!!

Community and Artisans

McKinney’s large artisan community and several pottery studios have made Empty Bowls a novel and successful event for many years. It is a fun community event even though the goal is to address the very serious issue of food insecurity.

Empty Bowls McKinney raises money through a variety of ways including event sponsors, generous private donors, ticket, raffle, auction and limited edition bowl sales.
For the last 2 years we have been able to donate over $80,000 to our beneficiaries.

General admission to the event is only $35. Included with a guests admission is a choice of a handmade event bowls and sampling of soups and specialties form local food purveyors.

Collector’s Club and Beneficiaries

Empty Bowls also features a Collector’s Club, which is limited to 65 tickets at $125 each. Guests choose for an exclusive collection of larger artisan bowls and are able to get early access to the event at 5:30.

Looking Ahead

On April 23rd, the Empty Bowls team expects around 1000 community members and over 100 volunteers to attend. We are excited about moving to Tupps Brewery for our 15th year. Tupps will offer more space for guests, vendors, and parking.

Key Highlights

Fighting hunger, one bowl at a time

Registered Non-Profit
15 Years Strong
Local Artists & Potters
Every Ticket = Meals
Volunteer-Powered
Sponsor Support
Community Impact