The ninth annual Elgin Empty Bowl Souper Bowl is Saturday, Nov. 7, 2026, from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Elgin High School, 14000 County Line Road. You sample soup and chili from local cooks, take home a hand-painted bowl and help the Bastrop County Emergency Food Pantry at the same time.
What happens at the Elgin Empty Bowl?
Local chefs, restaurants and caterers compete in five categories, according to Community Impact:
- Cream-based soup
- Broth-based soup
- Chili
- Stew
- Table presentation
You taste the entries and vote for a fan favorite. The food pantry calls it a “battle of the ladles,” with celebrity judges picking the best in each category. There is also a silent auction, a raffle with prizes from local businesses, and live music.
How much are tickets?
| Age | Price |
|---|---|
| 13 and older | $35 |
| 6 to 12 | $5 |
| Under 6 | Free |
Ticket holders 13 and older receive a commemorative bowl hand-painted by Elgin ISD students. Buy through the event ticket page, and please confirm details with the organizer before you go.
Who does it help?
The money goes to the Bastrop County Emergency Food Pantry and Support Center. The pantry also runs a separate Bastrop County Empty Bowl, so watch its events page if you cannot make this one.
Thinking about moving to Bastrop County?
A community lunch is a good way to get to know a place. Our Moving to Bastrop guide covers the basics, and our November events roundup has more to do in November. If you would like to look at homes while you are in the area, ask us.
Frequently asked questions
- When is the Elgin Empty Bowl in 2026?
- The ninth annual Elgin Empty Bowl Souper Bowl is Saturday, Nov. 7, 2026, from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Elgin High School, 14000 County Line Road.
- How much are Elgin Empty Bowl tickets?
- Community Impact lists tickets at $35 for ages 13 and older and $5 for ages 6 to 12. The ticket page says children under 6 are free.
- What do you get with an Elgin Empty Bowl ticket?
- You sample soups, stews and chili from local chefs and vote for a fan favorite. Ticket holders 13 and older also take home a commemorative bowl hand-painted by Elgin ISD students.
- Who does the Elgin Empty Bowl help?
- The event benefits the Bastrop County Emergency Food Pantry and Support Center, which hosts it.
Sources
- Community Impact: Elgin Empty Bowl Souper Bowl set for Nov. 7
- Bastrop County Emergency Food Pantry: Events
- Elgin Empty Bowl tickets
Thinking about moving to Bastrop? Start with our moving guide and neighborhood guide, or send us a question.
