Empty Bowls Long Beach

Sara Pilchman Ceramics and the Volunteer Center South Bay/Harbor/Long Beach invite the community to the inaugural Empty Bowls Long Beach on Saturday, November 7, 2026, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at First Congregational Church of Long Beach, 241 Cedar Avenue.

The event brings an international grassroots movement to Long Beach, connecting local artists, restaurants, volunteers, and neighbors through a shared meal and a commitment to addressing hunger.

Tickets are $35 and include soup donated by local restaurants and a handcrafted ceramic bowl made by Long Beach artists for guests to take home. All proceeds benefit the Volunteer Center’s Food For Kids program, which provides more than 9,000 meals weekly through partner schools and educational programs, alongside food assistance through pantries in Torrance and Long Beach.

As families navigate financial pressures and changes to SNAP benefits that help cover the cost of groceries, Empty Bowls offers a meaningful way to help put nourishing food within reach of local children and families. Organizers hope this first gathering will establish an annual tradition celebrating creativity, connection, and compassion for neighbors.

Community members are encouraged to purchase tickets, invite friends, and help launch this new Long Beach event.