Our History
Serving McKinney
The Tradition that is
Empty Bowls McKinney
Going into our Fifteenth Year
For the past 15 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.
Our Impact
Fighting hunger, one handmade bowl at a time
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Registered Non-Profit
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15 Years Strong
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Local Artists & Potters
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Every Ticket = Meals
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Volunteer-Powered