Empty Bowls is back!
The much-loved Empty Bowls event will take place on May 2, 2027, to raise money and awareness for the issue of food insecurity in northwest Michigan.
When: Sunday, May 2, 2027
Where: Howe Arena in Traverse City MI Directions
Times: 11:00 am – 2:00 pm
This year’s event is titled Home Is Where The Heart Is – A Place For Everyone At The Table. Step back in time to Main St. USA where neighbors gather, good food is shared, and there is always room at the table. Join us for a fun-filled day of Retro Americana while helping bring fresh, nourishing food from our local farms to our neighbors in need. The need for food is greater than ever, 40% of Michigan families do not earn enough to afford basic living expenses (2026 United Way MI ALICE Report).
We are excited to announce that we will be featuring at the event the Music of Elvis Presley performed by Scott Carter and his band!
Bring the kids to the event! Kids 15 and under are free with a paid adult. There will be fun retro Americana themed things for the kids in addition to bowl making demos, Mystery boxes and other locally made items to purchase, music and much more.
For more information email the Event Chair at: malyk805@gmail.com.
Ticket Pricing:
Adult Advance Purchase (online link below) $32
Adult at the door $38
Children 15 and under free with paid adult ticket
Would you like to help but are not able to attend?
Consider being a sponsor
Our Sponsors are critical to the success of this event. The funds they provide help to pay the out-of-pocket costs of the event, allowing us to use all ticket proceeds to purchase food for our pantries and meal sites.
A key element in fulfilling this vision of a healthier region is supplying fresh fruits, vegetables, and lean protein from local farmers purchased through our Farm2Neighbor fund, supplemented by donated and rescued food.
Will you help support the Coalition by sponsoring our Empty Bowls event? If you have questions, email EmptyBowls@northwestmifoodcoalition.org.
2026 Empty Bowls Photo Gallery
