What is International Can-It-Forward Day?

International Can-It-Forward Day is held worldwide every year on August 1. The day promotes home canning as a way to preserve seasonal food, reduce waste, and encourage traditional food skills. Participants are encouraged to share their canned goods, recipes, or techniques with others. The practice connects people with local produce and offers a way to enjoy fresh flavors year-round. It also builds community through the simple act of giving and preserving.

The phrase “Can-It-Forward” plays on the idea of paying it forward by passing on something useful. In this case, that something is homemade food in jars. The day brings awareness to an old skill that is becoming newly appreciated in modern homes. It’s about self-reliance, creativity, and making use of what is in season. Across countries, people celebrate this day by filling shelves with colorful jars and sharing what they’ve made.

History and Origin

The technique of canning began in France in the early 19th century. Nicolas Appert discovered that sealing food in jars and heating them preserved it safely for long periods. His method changed the way food was stored, especially during wars and shortages. In later decades, home canning spread across Europe and America. Families preserved everything from fruits to sauces to survive harsh winters.

By the mid-20th century, industrial food processing made canning at home less common. Still, many communities kept the tradition alive, especially in rural areas. In recent years, interest in canning has grown again due to concerns about waste, health, and food security. International Can-It-Forward Day was created to highlight the value of this practice. It now includes online classes, recipe exchanges, and public events.

The day was first supported by kitchen supply brands and food preservation campaigns. It quickly gained popularity as people began looking for ways to reconnect with natural food sources. Events were held in libraries, farmers’ markets, and community kitchens. The goal was always to make canning accessible and fun for everyone. Over time, it became a fixed date on many local and global food calendars.

Who participates in International Can-It-Forward Day?

• Home canners: Experienced individuals use this day to try new recipes or give away their creations to neighbors and friends.
• First-timers: Beginners often join by watching tutorials or attending workshops to learn the basics of food preservation.
• Farmers and growers: Local producers offer special deals or bundles of fresh fruits and vegetables ideal for canning.
• Community centers: Organizations hold events where people can can food together, exchange tips, or donate jars.
• Teachers and librarians: Schools and libraries run educational programs that introduce children and adults to canning.

Slogans and Themes

Each year, International Can-It-Forward Day includes new themes related to community, sustainability, or food sharing. Slogans often focus on freshness and connection, like “Seal the Season” or “From Garden to Jar.” These messages reflect the joy of homemade food and the value of learning a practical skill. The goal is to keep the language simple, warm, and easy to share. Themes are often tied to current global conversations about food waste and local resilience.

Colors, Symbols and Patterns

Colors

• Green: Symbolizes nature, freshness, and self-grown ingredients.
• Red: Represents ripe fruits, jam jars, and the energy of the harvest.
• Gold: Suggests the richness and care involved in preserved foods.

Symbols

• Mason jar: The most recognizable item in home canning, used across the world.
• Metal ring and lid: A simple tool that protects and preserves, used by generations.
• Wooden spoon: Represents tradition and the hands-on nature of the process.

Patterns

• Checkered cloth: Often used as decoration on jar lids, symbolizing home comfort.
• Fruit illustrations: Decorative and informative, often printed on labels or covers.
• Simple borders: Used on recipe cards or tags to give a vintage or handmade look.

How do you celebrate International Can-It-Forward Day?

• Learn the basics: Take part in a local workshop or follow an online video to understand safe canning methods.
• Try a recipe: Make jam, salsa, or pickled vegetables using fresh produce from a garden or market.
• Share your jars: Give canned goods to friends, neighbors, or local charities to spread the joy.
• Swap ideas: Exchange labels, recipes, or tools with other home canners in your community.
• Join an event: Look for public canning sessions or demonstrations in community kitchens or farmers’ markets.

Why is International Can-It-Forward Day important?

Home canning encourages people to take control of their food and reduce reliance on packaging or industrial products. It’s an easy skill to learn and can make a big difference in both personal and environmental terms. Preserving food at home helps cut waste and supports seasonal, local eating. The act of canning also builds patience and care, making it rewarding beyond the food itself. This day reminds us that everyday kitchen work can be meaningful.

Canning is also about sharing something made with time and intention. Giving a jar of jam or pickles shows thought and generosity. International Can-It-Forward Day brings people together through something simple and nourishing. It teaches that old skills still matter, especially in changing times. Most of all, it celebrates the power of passing something useful forward.