Event Details

For the 26th year, the Placerville Empty Bowls Dinner will offer a chance to gather, enjoy a delicious bowl of soup in a handmade bowl, and raise funds to fight hunger in our local community and beyond. The event is organized by youth participants in Hands4Hope - Youth Making A Difference.

Sunday, February 15, 2026

3 to 6 pm

Forni Building, El Dorado County Fairgrounds

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$25: General Admission presale, ends February 13 ($30 at the door)
$15: Youth ages 5-18
Free: Children age 4 and younger (please reserve a free ticket)

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Sponsorships start at just $150

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Families can enjoy delicious soup served in a keepsake handmade bowl, all while soaking in the lively atmosphere of live music and vendor booths. Wine, beer, and desserts will be available for purchase. The event is entirely youth-driven, organized by a passionate committee learning invaluable skills like leadership, time management, marketing, event planning, in addition to learning about hunger in their own community. Learn more about the youth-led Hands4Hope Empty Bowls Committee here.

Our Mission: Hands4Hope - Youth Making A Difference is dedicated to empowering youth through service learning and outreach. We strive to make a positive impact in our community and beyond through Exploration, Action, and Leadership. 

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Help Fight Hunger: The funds raised from this event will support organizations fighting food insecurity. Your participation helps us continue this legacy of support and compassion. This year's beneficiaries are:

• Upper Room Dining Hall (Placerville)

• El Dorado High School's Natural Resources Program - Garden Senior Project (Placerville)

• Hands4Hope Emergency Food Pantry (Placerville)

• Earth's Angels (Ghana, Africa)

Sponsorship Opportunities: Sponsorships start at just $150 and include tickets to the event. Sponsorships can be purchased online or download a paper form here. Sponsorships are due by February 5.​

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Volunteer: Many Hands4Hope participants as well as community volunteers will be needed to assist with this special event.  Join our email list to make sure you are notified of volunteer needs.

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2025 Event Recap: Learn about our 2025 event and read our 2025 press release.

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