By Ann Marie Byrd, Feature Writer
New Bern has several annual community fundraisers that are national movements, including a local favorite: Empty Bowls. Currently heading into its 14th year, the goal of the event is to support the arts and local food pantries. Handled on the local level by the Craven County Arts Council and Gallery, and in collaboration with Religious Community Services, the event is divided into two distinct activities: the “throw-down” during which local potters demonstrate how pottery is made, and the big event itself, during which guests can purchase bowls and soup created by local restaurants.
The Throwdown will be held this year on January 12, from 5pm-8pm at the Harrison Center, while the main event, Empty Bowls will be February 16, from 11:00am-1:30 pm at Temple Church.
Jon Burger, Executive Director of Craven Arts Council says, “Empty Bowls is an important event because it raises money for two great causes in our community: food insecurity and community arts. All of the money raised stays in the community, which has a direct, positive impact on New Bern.”
The Empty Bowls event is unique in that it happens in two stages. Also, at each event, it is a community gathering, where people can meet and connect. “This isn’t a formal event. It’s very casual and community friendly, where people can enjoy each other’s company and break bread together,” says Jon.
Most of the restaurants and churches that have participated in previous years will be returning, with a few newcomers. As many as 35 organizations participate annually.
“One of the new things were are doing this new year, is making a list of all ingredients in each of the soups. We are trying to be more accessible, to help people who have food allergies or intolerances such as dairy, animal products, or gluten,” says Jon.