Empty Bowls Soup Lunch

Sunday, Oct.1 2, marks the 14th annual Empty Bowls community lunch at the Highlands First Presbyterian Church from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. The event raises critical funds for the Highlands Food Pantry. 
According to TJ Smith, Executive Director of the International Friendship Center, which operates the Food Pantry, the event is essential to allow the pantry to sustain its food purchases which average around $7,000 monthly. 
This year’s soups and desserts will be donated by a lineup of local favorites including Mountain Fresh, 4118, the Highlands Tavern, the Highlands Supper Club, Chef Roberto DeJong, Lakeside the Baked Bunny and Kilwin’s. 
Tickets are $35 per person and include a delicious soup and a handmade pottery bowl by artist and students at The Bascom. Tickets can be purchased online at highlandsfriendshipcenter.org/empty-bowls-2025 or at the Highlands Food Pantry, located on the bottom floor of the Highlands United Methodist Church, accessible via Spring Street, on Monday, Tuesdays, and Thursdays between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m.