INTERNATIONAL DAY

World Baking Day

World Baking Day is a global nod to something worth celebrating no matter which map you grew up with.

MAY17

Sunday, May 17Third Sunday in May

Roots: First celebrated in 2012
Vibe: Joyful and communal celebration
Also on May 17: Walnut Day · World Hypertension Day · World Telecommunication and Information Society Day
Hashtag: #WorldBakingDay

Add to my calendar Send a card Email a friend

Apple or Outlook calendar

Ways to celebrate

Small, doable ways to celebrate World Baking Day.

Read or watch something made outside the U.S. today.
Cook a dish from a country you've been curious about.
Donate to an international organization doing good work.
Learn one word in a language you don't speak.
Send a message to a friend who lives elsewhere.

Make it your kind of celebration

Family
Eat, watch, or listen to something from another country tonight.
Kids
Pick a country to learn about this week — flag, food, language, one famous person.
Couples
Plan a trip — real or imagined — to someplace you've never been.
Office
Celebrate a team member's heritage — food, holiday, tradition.
School
Tie the day into a geography, language, or world history unit.
Community
Support an international nonprofit with a local presence.
Just me
Read long-form journalism from outside the U.S. today.

Fast facts

Millions of people in the US bake every year.

Baking can help reduce stress.

The story

World Baking Day, celebrated on May 17, encourages people around the globe to bake and share their creations with family and friends. The event originated in 2012 as a campaign encouraging people to bake and share with family and friends. Since its inception, it has grown into a global phenomenon, uniting bakers of all skill levels in the kitchen.

Read the full story

In the United States, baking has deep roots, from the colonial era's pie-making to modern-day cupcake trends. Home bakers take pride in preparing everything from traditional recipes to innovative desserts. This day serves as a reminder of the happiness that comes from creating something delicious and sharing it with others, reinforcing the bonds of community.

Baking can also offer therapeutic benefits, as studies indicate that engaging in this creative process can significantly reduce stress levels. The act of measuring, mixing, and kneading can be meditative, allowing bakers to focus on the present moment. Whether it's the warmth of the oven or the smell of freshly baked bread, these sensory experiences create lasting memories.

As we celebrate World Baking Day, let us honor the tradition of baking and the joy it brings into our lives. From sharing recipes to hosting bake sales, this day is about coming together, enjoying the fruits of our labor, and embracing the sweet moments that baking creates.

Did you know?

Most Popular Baked Good

Chocolate chip cookies are a favorite in the US.

World's Largest Cake

Record-setting cakes have weighed thousands of pounds.

Baking Competitions

Shows like 'The Great British Bake Off' inspire many bakers.

Baking as Therapy

Studies show baking can reduce anxiety levels.

Baking Traditions

Many cultures have unique baked goods for celebrations.

Flour History

Flour has been used in baking for over 6,000 years.

Baking Process

The Maillard Reaction is key to achieving flavor in baked goods.

Around the world

Every culture celebrates a little differently.

USNorth AmericaBaking is a cherished tradition, with cookies and pies being staples.
GBEuropeHome to diverse baking styles, from French pastries to German breads.
AUAustraliaCelebrates baking with unique desserts like pavlova and lamington.
JPAsiaBlends traditional and modern baking techniques, featuring mochi and matcha.
BRSouth AmericaKnown for rich flavors in desserts like brigadeiro and alfajores.
ZAAfricaIncorporates local ingredients in baked goods, with a focus on community.