Bowls and bragging rights: Elgin Empty Bowl returns Nov. 7

Local chefs, restaurants and caterers will compete for bragging rights while raising money for the Bastrop County Emergency Food Pantry during the ninth annual Elgin Empty Bowl event.

What to expect

Attendees can sample entries and vote for a fan favorite, while competitors vie for top honors in five categories:

• Cream-based soup

• Broth-based soup

• Chili

• Stew

• Table presentation

What else?

The fundraiser will also feature a silent auction, a raffle with prizes from local businesses and live music, according to a news release.

Ticket holders ages 13 and older can take home a commemorative bowl hand-painted by Elgin ISD students.

Why it matters

Officials said the bowls are intended to serve as a reminder of neighbors facing food insecurity, while proceeds will benefit the Bastrop County Emergency Food Pantry.

“Every ticket purchased, every bowl of soup tasted and every auction bid placed directly impacts a family in our community,” said Tresha Silva, CEO of Bastrop County Emergency Food Pantry. “We are calling on our neighbors to join the team and help us turn empty bowls into full ones.”

• Nov. 7, 11 a.m.-1:30 p.m.

• $35 (admission, ages 13 and older), $5 (admission, ages 6-12)

• Elgin High School, 14000 County Line Road, Elgin

• www.bastropfoodpantry.org/events