International Can-It Forward Day (August 1st)

Quick facts
When is it?	Every August 1st
Tagged as:	Food & Drink Items & Things
What's the hashtag?	#InternationalCanItForwardDay
When was it founded?	2011
Who founded it?	Jarden Home Brands
We first published this page on:	Jun 22nd, 2025
We last updated this page:	Jun 22nd, 2025

Contents

There’s something deeply satisfying about sealing your own jar of jam or pickles.

That’s what International Can-It-Forward Day is all about—taking the time to preserve fresh food and share the results. It’s a celebration of flavor, creativity, and a bit of old-school charm.

Whether you’re new to canning or already have a shelf full of gleaming jars, this day brings a sense of hands-on fun.

You don’t need fancy tools or a big garden—just a few fresh ingredients, some basic supplies, and the willingness to try.

But this day isn’t only about tasty results. It also brings attention to how much food we waste and how we can do better.

When you preserve food, you keep it from spoiling and give it a second life. That small act helps your budget, supports seasonal eating, and reduces trips to the store. It’s not just practical—it’s rewarding.

You’re not only filling your pantry, you’re also connecting to something real. A ripe tomato today becomes soup in December. A juicy peach turns into a gift you can hand to a neighbor. And those simple, thoughtful choices add up.

How to Celebrate the International Can-It-Forward Day

Here’s how you can make the most of International Can-It Forward Day with a mix of fun, flavor, and sharing.

Try a New Recipe

Step into something new by testing a different recipe. Make salsa with fresh tomatoes or go sweet with apple butter.

Follow trusted steps and enjoy the process. You don’t need a lot of space—just clean jars, good ingredients, and some care.

Teach a Friend

Show someone else how to can. Invite them over, set up the kitchen, and make something simple together. Walk them through each part.

Share your own tips if you’ve done this before. That way, more people learn and enjoy the fun.

Swap Jars Locally

Join a local group or ask neighbors if they want to trade. Share pickles for jam or chutney for fruit syrup. Keep it relaxed and friendly. It’s a tasty way to connect and try flavors you might not make yourself.

Donate Homemade Goods

Give a few jars to someone who might appreciate the gift. Think of a nearby shelter, food bank, or community fridge.

Homemade items feel thoughtful. Just make sure they’re sealed properly and labeled with ingredients for safety.

Post Your Process

Share a photo or video of what you’re making online. Explain what you did and how it went. Others might feel inspired to join. Keep it casual and real—messy counters and full jars both tell the story.

History of International Can-It-Forward Day

International Can-It Forward Day began in 2011. The idea came from Jarden Home Brands, the makers of Ball canning jars.

They wanted to help people learn how to preserve food at home and feel confident doing it. Their goal was simple: bring canning into more kitchens and inspire folks to share what they made.

The event started small, with live demonstrations and videos. People could watch experts show each step of the canning process.

That early effort caught on fast. Soon, people across the country—and later, around the world—joined in. They canned salsa, jam, pickles, and more. The day turned into a celebration of both food and community.

It grew year by year. Fans began to share jars with neighbors, host workshops, and teach canning to friends.

The spirit behind it stayed the same: pass on useful skills and enjoy the results together. Though started by a brand, the day moved beyond marketing. Now it belongs to everyone who enjoys preserving what’s fresh and in season.

International Can-It Forward Day reminds people that canning isn’t just for experts. It’s for anyone curious, creative, and willing to try something new in the kitchen.

International Can-It Forward Day