CULLMAN, Ala. — The 21st annual Empty Bowls of Cullman County Chili Dinner will take place Monday, Feb. 16, 2026, offering the community an evening of food, fellowship and fundraising in support of the Cullman Caring for Kids food bank.
The event will be held from 4-6:30 p.m. at First United Methodist Church in Cullman. Tickets are $15 and are available at Cullman Caring for Kids and First United Methodist Church. Carry-out service will also be available.
Proceeds from the annual dinner benefit Cullman Caring for Kids, which provides food assistance to individuals and families throughout Cullman County and supports a range of programs focused on child welfare and family stability.
Over the past two decades, Empty Bowls of Cullman County has raised tens of thousands of dollars for local hunger relief efforts.
Proceeds from previous dinners have helped stock the Cullman Caring for Kids food bank, supporting food distributions for individuals and families facing food insecurity across the county.
Organizers say the annual event has become one of the community’s most consistent grassroots fundraisers, combining local art, music and volunteers to address a year-round need.
The evening will feature chili prepared by Two Guys, grilled cheese sandwiches, handmade pottery bowls and a silent auction. Guests will also enjoy Southern gospel music by Brian Westbrook & the Misfits and Enell Baker.
Ron Mosely Jr. of WKUL Radio 92.1 will serve as the special guest emcee.
Empty Bowls is part of a worldwide movement that raises awareness of hunger and food insecurity through community meals and local art.
Each attendee receives a handcrafted bowl as a reminder of those facing empty bowls at home and the ongoing need for food assistance in the community.
Cullman Caring for Kids operates as a family resource center, providing food assistance, advocacy and support services to children and families across the county.
Funds raised through the Empty Bowls dinner help sustain food bank operations and expand outreach to residents in need.
21st annual Empty Bowls of Cullman County Chili Dinner
- Monday, Feb. 16, 2026, 4-6:30 p.m.
- First United Methodist Church, 320 Third Ave. SE, Cullman
- Dine in or carry out
- Tickets available at First United Methodist Church and Cullman Caring for Kids (402 Arnold St. NE, Suite W-1, Cullman)
