National Soup It Forward Day
Why it matters
WARM YOUR HEART
Celebrate the joy of sharing with a soup-filled day.
THE STORY
National Soup It Forward Day, observed on January 12, is a celebration dedicated to the spirit of sharing and kindness through soup. This day encourages individuals and communities across the United States to come together and engage in the simple yet profound act of sharing a warm bowl of soup with others. Established in 2019, the day has quickly gained traction, resonating with those who understand the nurturing power of food.
Soup has long been a staple in American culture, often associated with comfort and family gatherings. From classic chicken noodle to hearty chili, the diversity of soups reflects the melting pot of cultures in the U.S. Each bowl serves not only to nourish but also to connect us, bridging gaps between neighbors and friends. As the weather turns colder in January, sharing soup becomes a symbol of warmth and community.
The act of sharing soup can take many forms—whether it’s delivering homemade soup to a neighbor in need, organizing a community soup potluck, or donating canned goods to a local food bank. Each gesture, no matter how small, contributes to a larger tapestry of kindness that defines our communities. Soup kitchens and shelters often see increased support on this day, highlighting a collective commitment to helping those less fortunate.
As you prepare to celebrate National Soup It Forward Day, consider the stories that each bowl of soup can tell. Through recipes passed down through generations or new concoctions inspired by global flavors, soup embodies the essence of sharing. This January 12, let’s make an effort to fill our bowls and hearts with generosity, fostering connections that warm us all.
WORTH KNOWING
Share a Bowl
Invite friends or neighbors to enjoy a bowl together.
Get Creative
Experiment with new soup recipes.
Spread Kindness
Deliver soup to someone in need.
Global Flavors
Try soups from different cultures.
AROUND THE WORLD
DID YOU KNOW?!
The Origins of Soup
Soup dates back to prehistoric times, with evidence of its existence as early as 6000 BC.
Soup in Space
In 2008, astronauts aboard the Space Shuttle Endeavour enjoyed soup as part of their meals.
World's Largest Soup
The largest soup ever made was a 6,244-gallon pot of soup created in 2018 in Portugal.
A Soup for Every Season
Different soups are favored in various seasons, with hearty options in winter and light broths in summer.
Soup and Health
Soups can be nutritious and hydrating, making them a popular choice for health-conscious eaters.
Canned Soup Popularity
Canned soup sales surged during the COVID-19 pandemic, as people sought easy meal options.
National Soup Month
January is also celebrated as National Soup Month, encouraging soup lovers to try new recipes.
READ MORE
Soup for Every Day
By the Williams-Sonoma Test Kitchen
A collection of diverse soup recipes for every palate.
Soup: A Recipe for Life
By the New York Times
Exploring personal stories woven through the act of making soup.
The Soup Dragon
By the author of The Hungry Caterpillar
A delightful story that introduces children to the joys of soup making.
The Art of Soup
By the Soup Society
A deep dive into the cultural significance and techniques of soup making.
PAIR IT WITH
Serve with crusty bread for a complete meal.
Complement with a fresh salad for balance.
Top with grated cheese for extra flavor.
A light white wine pairs well with many soups.
Share Your Soup Story
Join the celebration this January 12 by sharing your soup stories and recipes with friends and family.