The Baltimore Community is invited to gather and raise funds for those impacted by hunger, homelessness, and poverty

Baltimore – St. Vincent de Paul of Baltimore (SVDP), the nonprofit dedicated to ensuring those impacted by poverty have the skills, resources, and opportunity to achieve their full potential, will host the 20th  annual Empty Bowls event, to raise critical funds for services that help members of the community impacted by hunger, homelessness and poverty.  

The two-day event will begin on Friday, April 17, with Candlelight & Clay, an evening reception featuring an open bar, music, dancing, games and entertainment, silent auction, tastings from local restaurants, and first pick at the souvenir bowls. On Saturday, April 18, SVDP will host the Annual Family Event,featuring savory soups and food from local restaurants, auction items, entertainment, and activities for the whole family.  

Attendees at both events can browse through thousands of hand-crafted ceramic bowls and choose one to take home as a symbol and reminder of the hunger, homelessness, and poverty in our community. 

"Empty Bowls is such a special event for our community," said Mary Helfrich, Chief Advancement Officer of St. Vincent de Paul of Baltimore. "For 20 years, it’s been a way for people to come together, share a meal, and make a real difference for those struggling with hunger, homelessness, and poverty. We’re so grateful for the incredible support from our neighbors and partners who help bring this event to life and make our work possible." 

In 2025, Empty Bowls drew over 700 people and raised $154,000. Sponsorship packages are currently available. To learn more and purchase a ticket for Candlelight & Clay or the Annual Family Event, visit www.EmptyBowlsBaltimore.org.  

Our 2026 Empty Bowls Sponsors include: Lieutenant Thomas Joseph Hill,The Friendly Inn Association, GAF

• Courtesy of St. Vincent de Paul of Baltimore (SVDP)
• Courtesy of St. Vincent de Paul of Baltimore (SVDP)
• Courtesy of St. Vincent de Paul of Baltimore (SVDP)

Event Details:  

Empty Bowls Candlelight and Clay

Friday, April 17, 2026 

6:30PM – 9:30PM at the Maryland State Fairgrounds | Exhibition Hall 

Tickets:  $100 per person for open seating | $1,000 for a table of 10 

Empty Bowls Annual Family Event

Saturday, April 18, 2026 

4:00PM – 7:00PM at the Maryland State Fairgrounds | Exhibition Hall 

Early Bird Tickets:  $35 per person for open seating | $450 for a table of 10 | Children 9 and under are FREE