Each year 200 people stand in line to get into Woods-Penniman for the Annual Empty Bowls Event sponsored by Berea College Dining Services, Berea College Ceramics students, the Craft Education and Outreach Program and CELTS. Students, faculty, staff and community members will each pay $15 for a beautiful bowl, soup and the privilege of helping those in need in our community.

Many people are involved in making the event a success. In addition to students from Ceramics and CELTS, there are many other volunteers from both campus and the community. Local potters donate bowls, students perform music during the event, and others donate soup.

The event begins with participants choosing their very own bowl. Attendees then choose a soup for supper and find a seat beside old friends and new acquaintances. Participants may also have the opportunity to donate more money by entering a raffle to win additional pottery pieces. All proceeds from the event benefit the Berea Food Bank.

This year’s event will take place on Thursday, March 30th, 2023, at 5:30 p.m. in the Woods-Penniman Commons.  

Tickets can be purchased noon to 1 p.m. , Monday – Wednesday, March 27 – 29 in the Alumni Lounge of the Berea College Alumni Building.  Tickets will also be sold in the CELTS office (Room 205 Stephenson Hall).  They will also be sold at the door of the event.