Carrots are the tops – 7 top facts and recipes for British Carrot Day

Last year That's Food and Drink was pleased to support the inaugural National Carrot Day. And we are equally pleased to support this year's event. 

British farmers, chefs and nutritionists are coming together this Autumn to celebrate one of the UK’s most heroic vegetables. 

Friday 3rd October is the second British Carrot Day, created by a group of passionate UK farmers who want the nation to rediscover the versatility, nutritious benefits and local food story of British-grown carrots. 

From breakfast bowls to winter roast dinners, and even your skincare routine, carrots can brighten every part of your day. 

“Carrots are harvested 12 months of the year in the UK so they are one of the freshest and most versatile vegetables we can all enjoy, from field to shelf within a couple of days and from an environmental point of view, they have low food miles too,” Harry Strawson, Joint Managing Director of Strawson Ltd told That's Food and Drink. 

Not only were carrots the heroes of a ruse by the Air Ministry during the war to convince the enemy British pilots’ night vision was down to eating vast amounts of carrots - not a new piece of radar equipment - but they are a stalwart of the British food story. 

Each year 22 billion carrot seeds are sown in Britain, producing over 700,000 tonnes of carrots in the UK. This is approximately 100 per person living here, and laid out end to end, would stretch 1.4 million miles - two and a half trips to the moon.   

“Carrots are worth £290 million to the UK economy but are one of the cheapest vegetables available at approximately 6p per carrot, and have plenty of nutritional benefits,” says nutritionist Dr Laura Wyness, an author, podcaster and who has featured on BBC Food Detectives.  

“The stand-out nutrient in carrots is beta-carotene which gives them their bright colour,” she explains. “Our bodies convert beta-carotene into retinol, which is the active form of Vitamin A that helps support vision, skin health and our immune system. Carrots also have beneficial fibre; something 96 per cent of adults in the UK don’t eat enough of.” 

As British growers provide 97% of the carrots consumers buy in the UK, there is almost no need to buy imported carrots. On Friday 3rd October, British carrots will be celebrated on farm and across social media with stories, recipes and inspiration.  

“As farmers, we are very proud of what we grow and we want to show the skill and care that goes into growing something as 'simple' as a carrot, about the soil, the technology, the innovation and looking after the land,” says fourth-generation farmer, Will Hunter, who started full-time work on the farm in Lancashire the day he left school. 

"This October we are asking people across the nation pick up an extra bag of carrots and be inspired to try something new. If every household ate just a few more carrots each year, it would make a huge difference to British farming and help keep home-grown produce on our shelves for future generations.” 

British Carrot Day 2025 - Friday 3rd October 2025 -  www.britishcarrots.co.uk

Instagram: @lovebritishcarrots Hashtags: #BritishCarrotDay25 #LoveBritishCarrots

British Carrot Day was founded and is funded by the British Carrot Growers Association. The British Carrot Growers Association has approximately 40 farming members, voluntarily funded to promote UK carrot consumption and a sustainable industry.

Pimp up your carrots – 7 ways with carrots

Roast with honey and cumin

Mash with butter and chopped parsley

Use a peeler to make strips to add to salads and stir fries

Grill or barbecue and top with toasted sunflower seeds, pinenuts or pistachios and serve on a bed of soft cheese such as mascarpone. Got the tops? Blitz them into a pesto.

Dip with hummus for a fibre-protein combo that’s good for gut health

Grate and mix with raisins, apples, orange juice and olive oil

Sprialise and smother in your favourite pasta sauce

TOP TIP: Colour me happy - carrots come in all colours to jazz up your dishes: Rainbow offers a colourful mix of orange, yellow, white, pink, and purple carrots; perfect for adding visual zing to salads. Chioggia, an Italian heirloom variety, is strikingly red-and-white striped. Nantes is an orange old French variety that combines crunchiness with a mild, sweet taste.

HEALTH

The Orange Powerhouse: 5 ways carrots are the tops when it comes to health

Carrots have 2g of fibre per carrot – munching a few gets you well on the way to the recommended daily intake of 30g of fibre, which is great for your gut

The retinol revolution starts in your vegetable drawer - Beta-carotene is the stand-out nutrient in carrots – our bodies convert it into retinol, which is the active form of Vitamin A that supports eye health (can you see in the dark, yet?), skin health and our immune system. 

Munching carrots raw is good for your mouth - and oral health – munching carrots stimulates saliva which neutralises harmful acids produced by bacteria, and Vitamin A maintains mucus membranes in the mouth. The thick texture of carrots naturally breaks apart the plaque and tartar on your teeth.

Swap in a carrot to snack time - Carrots are 80% water, with just 5% sugar – low, natural sweetness with plenty of crunch. A large carrot has 61% less sugar (4.7g compared to 12.2g per 100g) than a banana and 54% less calories, along with 58% less carbohydrates and wins hands down when it comes to Vitamin A content, 277 times more to be exact. 

Carrots are a healthy, low-fat dog treat - great for helping to keep plaque away from your pup’s teeth

TOP TIP: Muddy carrots stay fresh for longer and can be kept in a dry, dark place like a kitchen cupboard. To keep ready-washed carrots fresher longer, remove from the packaging, wrap in kitchen roll and store in the fridge.

FARMING

A mighty bunch – 9 facts about farm fresh carrots

Britain produces over 700,000 tonnes of carrots each year - that’s the weight of 70 Eiffel Towers - around 100 each for every member of the population

Carrots are harvested all year round so they are always fresh from the field starting earlier in the year with southern regions and moving up the country from Kent to the north of Scotland.

The first recorded carrots weren’t orange – believed to have originated in Afghanistan in 7th Century AD – carrots were purple or yellow, with orange developed in the 16th century in Holland. 

To keep them cosy over winter and free from frost, carrots are covered with beds of straw

Carrots like fresh soil and a new place to grow each year. To protect them from disease, carrots can only be grown in the same field once every seven years, so farmers ‘rotate’ them around their farm

A love medicine: The Greeks called the carrot “Philtron” and used it as a love medicine

Carrots like sandy soils, growing wonky if the land is stony. 

A lot of research, innovation and technology goes into growing the best carrots in the UK, from making sure the seed grows well in the soils we have, to improve nutrient value - today’s carrots have 50% more carotene that those of 1970 – and to make sure they last well on shop shelves. GPS is used in tractors to plant the carrots perfectly straight lines and robots are used for weeding and sorting

Carrots are worth £290 million to the UK economy – but one of the cheapest veg to buy

Eat carrots at every meal this British Carrot Day

From breakfast to lunch and supper, you can eat carrots at every meal on Friday 3rd October. Share your photos #lovebritishcarrots #BritishCarrotDay25

Whether you're crunching or cooking, here’s why this humble veg deserves the spotlight this autumn:

Morning glory: Overnight carrot cake oats – sweet, spiced and ready when you wake up.

Lunchtime legends: Fresh, zesty carrot salad – light, crisp and full of colour.

Dinner stars: Brush with oil and put whole carrots under the grill or on the firepit, lay over a spread of mascarpone, top with pine nuts and add a drizzle of honey or balsamic glaze. Got the leaves too? Blitz the green tops into a pesto to finish it off. 

Sweet treats for afters or in between: carrot cake, carrot muffins, carrot flapjack or carrot ice cream

For more information, including more recipe ideas, visit www.britishcarrots.co.uk 

Why It’s Not Too Late to Stage Your Own Oktoberfest Beer Festival

October is here, and you might think you’ve missed the boat on hosting your own Oktoberfest celebration. 

But don’t pack away the lederhosen just yet – it’s definitely not too late for pubs, bars, and hotels to run a mini beer festival that will bring in new customers, boost sales, and create a memorable seasonal experience.

Why Oktoberfest Still Works in October (and Beyond)

Traditionally, Oktoberfest in Munich kicks off in late September and runs into early October. But in the UK, the public often associates the whole month with Bavarian-style beer, bratwurst, and steins. 

That means you’ve got the entire month – and even into early November if you frame it as a “last call for Oktoberfest” – to get in on the action.

Customers are already in the mood for autumnal events, hearty food, and social gatherings before the Christmas rush. A beer festival taps into all of that perfectly.

Easy Ways to Launch a Late Oktoberfest

You don’t need months of planning to stage a great event. With a little creativity, you can still put together a themed weekend or week-long special:

1. Showcase Seasonal Beers

Partner with local breweries and beer suppliers – many still have seasonal Märzen, festbiers, and other German-inspired brews in stock. A small “Oktoberfest Tasting Menu” of 3–5 beers is enough to make it feel special.

2. Add Simple Food Pairings

You don’t have to reinvent your kitchen. Classic beer hall favourites like pretzels, bratwurst, schnitzel, and potato salad can be added as specials or sharing platters. Even a “beer and sausage” pairing board works brilliantly.

3. Create an Atmosphere

A little décor goes a long way: blue-and-white bunting, long tables, beer steins, and some German music playlists. Encourage staff to dress up for the weekend – customers will love the effort.

4. Theme Your Promotions

Run a “Stein Night” where customers get a discount if they buy a litre pour, or offer a special price on a beer-and-brat combo. Promote it as “our Oktoberfest – better late than never!”

5. Extend Into November

If your diary is already busy in October, consider an “End of Oktoberfest” party in early November. You’ll stand out as everyone else winds down, and it bridges the gap before Christmas events begin.

The Business Benefits

Extra Footfall: A themed event gives people a reason to choose you over the competition.

Increased Spend: Beer festivals encourage customers to try more drinks, order food, and stay longer.

Social Media Buzz: Photos of customers clinking steins and enjoying themselves are perfect content for your channels.

Customer Loyalty: Seasonal events show you’re proactive and fun – giving guests a reason to come back for future occasions.

Final Pour

It’s not too late to tap into the Oktoberfest spirit. Whether you go all-out with a full Bavarian beer hall experience or keep it simple with a handful of festive specials, the important thing is to do something. A late Oktoberfest event could be just the boost your pub, hotel, or bar needs before the festive season kicks in.

So, raise your steins – there’s still time to say Prost!

One Water Picks Up the Pace With New Hire

Frances Lewthwaite, an experienced expert in social media, influencer marketing, and brand and charity partnerships, will play a key role in amplifying One Water's mission and expanding its presence across digital and retail channels. 

Frances brings extensive experience from both corporate and high-growth brand environments, having worked with companies including Vitamin Well and its associated brands Barebells and NOCCO, Brands2Life, and FUEL10K. 

Throughout her career, she has consistently delivered measurable results, including establishing Vitamin Well's TikTok presence with 2 million organic views and 30,000 followers in just four months, while growing Instagram reach to 2 million per month. 

At FUEL10K, she led a charity partnership with FareShare that has since become an annual initiative donating over 1 million meals.

At One Water, Frances will focus on amplifying communication of the company's purpose-driven mission, both across social media and in-person events. She will also collaborate with the sales team to support new business opportunities, increasing the brand's accessibility to consumers and enabling them to “Do One Good Thing" with every purchase.

In partnership with The One Foundation, One has raised over £30m since its launch in 2005, helping to fund clean water and sanitation projects that have transformed the lives of over 5 million people in communities across Africa and beyond. With increased visibility at Sainsbury's, One Water expects to accelerate its mission towards ending water poverty.

Ian Spooner, Brand Director at One Water told That's Food and Drink: "Frances brings data-driven rigour combined with the pragmatism and drive of someone who thrives in startups and high-growth brands. This is a busy time for us with Sainsbury's and Brentford activity ramping up and we can't wait for Frances to get stuck in. Her hustle mentality coupled with her corporate experience is going to be perfect.”

Frances Lewthwaite, Marketing Manager added: "I'm thrilled to join One Water and help amplify a mission I genuinely believe in. Every bottle of One Water helps to change lives, and I look forward to creating meaningful campaigns that connect with consumers, encourage positive action, and drive growth for the brand."

Ultramarathon lover Frances raises money through her running for charity in her spare time.

Growing Knowledge: Why Schools Should Teach Children to Grow Food. And How They Can Do It

Schools have an incredible role to play in shaping not just children’s academic development, but their life skills, values, and habits. 

One of the simplest yet most powerful tools for doing this is a school garden. 

Teaching children to grow food isn’t just about planting seeds – it’s about cultivating curiosity, resilience, and a connection to the wider world.

Learning Beyond the Classroom

A school garden transforms education into something hands-on and memorable. Science lessons on plant biology become experiments pupils can see and touch. Maths comes to life when they measure growth rates or count out seeds. Even literacy benefits, with pupils writing garden journals or sharing recipes. It’s active learning at its best – immersive, engaging, and lasting.

Encouraging Healthy Choices

When children grow fruit and vegetables themselves, they’re far more willing to try them. A child who proudly pulls a carrot from the ground is much more likely to taste it – and enjoy it. Schools that integrate food growing into the curriculum often see improved attitudes towards healthy eating, which in turn can support better concentration and wellbeing in the classroom.

Building Responsibility and Teamwork

Caring for a garden requires commitment. Pupils quickly learn that if a bed isn’t weeded, or plants aren’t watered, the results suffer. These lessons in responsibility and resilience are invaluable. Working in teams to share tasks and celebrate harvests also strengthens collaboration skills – qualities that help in every area of school life.

A Connection to Nature

In a world where screens dominate so much of children’s attention, school gardens reconnect them with the outdoors. They come to understand the rhythm of the seasons, the importance of pollinators, and the effort behind every meal. This awareness often extends beyond school grounds, nurturing respect for the environment and sustainability.

Enhancing School Community

Gardens create opportunities to involve parents, carers, and the wider community. A harvest day or school feast using garden produce can bring everyone together. Some schools even partner with local food banks, teaching children about community support and social responsibility in the process.

Preparing for the Future

Food security, climate change, and sustainability are pressing global challenges. By teaching children to grow food, schools equip them with practical skills and knowledge to face these issues with confidence. A child who learns to grow their own food is a child empowered to make healthier, more sustainable choices in later life.

How Your School Can Get Started

Even if your school doesn’t have a large green space, there are plenty of ways to begin:

Start Small – Raised beds, pots, or even windowsill herb gardens can be enough to get pupils planting and learning.

Link with the Curriculum – Tie gardening projects to science, maths, geography, or PSHE lessons to make learning natural and integrated.

Involve the Whole School – From reception to Year 6 and beyond, every class can take part, whether through planting, journaling, cooking, or caring for the garden.

Seek Community Support – Local garden centres, allotment groups, or even parents may be willing to donate seeds, compost, or expertise.

Celebrate the Harvest – Organise a tasting day, cooking session, or school fair to share the results. It reinforces the value of the project and builds excitement for the next growing season.

UK Resources for Schools

Schools don’t have to start from scratch – there are plenty of organisations offering support, ideas, and even funding opportunities:

RHS Campaign for School Gardening – Free resources, curriculum-linked projects, and awards to help schools of all sizes create and grow gardens. https://www.rhs.org.uk/education-learning/school-gardening

Soil Association’s Food for Life Schools Award – A whole-school approach to food education, including growing, cooking, and healthy eating. https://www.rhs.org.uk/education-learning/school-gardening

Eden Project Communities – Guidance and inspiration for school and community gardening projects. https://www.edenprojectcommunities.com/

Garden Organic Education Programme – Resources, training, and advice on organic gardening in schools. https://www.gardenorganic.org.uk/expert-advice/growing-in-your-space/schools

Grow to School (Yorkshire-based, national resources available) – Specialist support and project ideas to embed food growing into the curriculum. https://www.growtoschool.co.uk/

Local Allotment Societies & Community Gardens – Many welcome partnerships with schools and may offer practical help or shared space.

Final Thought for Educators

A school garden isn’t just a patch of soil – it’s an outdoor classroom, a health project, a community builder, and a sustainability lesson all rolled into one. For schools and teachers, investing time and energy into food growing can yield a harvest far richer than the crops themselves: resilient, curious, and capable young people.

Celebrate 100 Years of World Animal Day by Donating a Dinner to Animals in Need

That's Food and Drink recently carried a feature on World Animal Day and we are pleased to be able to bring another feature on this very important day and how you can help celebrate it.

This October 4 marks the 100th anniversary of World Animal Day, and animal lovers are being urged to celebrate by taking part in Naturewatch Foundation’s ‘Donate a Dinner’ campaign, helping to feed animals in rescue centres as they wait for their forever homes.

Cheltenham-based charity Naturewatch Foundation, who coordinates World Animal Day worldwide, has already marked this milestone by donating 100 dinners to Vale Wildlife Hospital, supporting the incredible work they do to care for injured and orphaned wildlife.

With rescue and rehoming centres under growing pressure from rising numbers of abandoned animals, community support has never been more important.

Sarah Carr, CEO of Naturewatch Foundation and coordinator of World Animal Day, told That's Food and Drink: “World Animal Day on October 4 is the biggest day of the year for animals, and this year is extra special as we celebrate its centenary. 

"Donating a dinner is such a simple but powerful way to show kindness. Every meal donated helps an animal in need and supports the incredible people who care for them.

“This year, to celebrate 100 years of World Animal Day, we proudly donated 100 dinners to Vale Wildlife Hospital, and we’d love for others to get involved too.”

There are several simple ways to ‘Donate a Dinner’:

● Drop a packet or tin in your rescue centre’s collection box, or food bank collection point, or any participating pet shops or supermarkets

● Take your food donation directly to your local rescue centre

● Purchase items from a centre’s Amazon Wishlist

● Donate the cost of a meal through their website

Natalie Gould at Vale Wildlife Hospital said: “We are thrilled to have been chosen for support during the ‘Donate a Dinner’ Campaign. 

"With over 8,000 British wildlife casualties coming through our doors annually, food costs for the charity are exceptionally high. 

"The ‘Donate a Dinner’ Campaign is a fantastic way to support animal charities, and your support means we can feed more sick, injured and orphaned wildlife. Thank you, from all at Vale Wildlife Hospital.”

Sarah Carr added: “Don’t forget – if you’re struggling to feed the animals in your family, there is help available. Larger charities, including the RSPCA, Blue Cross and Dogs Trust, all run pet food banks to help animals stay with their families during these unpredictable times.”

If you’d like to get involved further on World Animal Day, you can host an event, take part in the 100K Challenge, or pledge an act of kindness for animals. Full details and resources can be found at worldanimalday.org.uk.

Hosting Catered Poetry Readings for National Poetry Day

National Poetry Day, held every October in the UK, Thursday 2nd this year, is all about celebrating the written and spoken word. 

But while poetry feeds the mind, great food and drink feed the body. Why not combine the two and host a catered poetry reading this year? 

With carefully chosen menus and thoughtful hospitality, you can create an event that lingers in the memory as much as the verses themselves.

Why Food and Poetry Belong Together

There’s always been a natural connection between food and the arts. Just as poetry delights in rhythm, imagery, and emotion, food appeals to the senses, memory, and imagination. 

Offering catering at a poetry reading makes the experience more immersive — guests don’t just listen, they taste, sip, and share. That blend of creativity and comfort encourages conversations and makes people linger longer.

Menu Ideas for a Poetry Reading

The right menu can set the tone for your event:

Tea and Poetry Pairings: A classic choice. Offer a selection of teas — smoky lapsang, delicate jasmine, robust English breakfast — paired with scones, finger sandwiches, and dainty cakes.

Poems and Pints: Poems read and listened to whilst supping real ales, ciders IPAs, stouts or continental lagers.

Wine and Words: For an evening affair, a curated wine list works beautifully. Think rich reds alongside cheeseboards and charcuterie, or sparkling wine with light canapés.

Coffeehouse Revival: Channel the Beat poets with strong espresso, frothy cappuccinos, and trays of brownies, biscotti, and handmade truffles.

Seasonal Autumnal Feast: Celebrate October with pumpkin soup, spiced apple cake, roasted nuts, and warming mulled cider or alcohol-free spiced punch.

Making Food Part of the Poetry

A fun twist is to theme your menu around the poets or poems you’re featuring:

A “Romantic Poets” spread with rustic breads, hearty cheeses, and country-style fruit tarts.

A “Modern Voices” platter with inventive fusion bites and contemporary cocktails.

Dishes named after famous lines or titles, like Ode to a Cheeseboard or Sonnet of Spiced Wine.

Venues and Catering Set-Up

Whether you host in a bookshop café, a cosy pub, a library with catering facilities, or even at home, make sure food and drink are easily accessible. A buffet works well for mingling, while table service creates a more formal feel. For small-scale events, partnering with a local caterer or bakery is a great way to add flair without taking on too much yourself.

Adding the Finishing Touches

Think about atmosphere: soft lighting, background music, and stylish table settings can make your catering as memorable as the readings. Simple touches like poetry-themed menus on each table or edible favours (biscuits with poetic quotes, for example) make the evening feel special.

A catered poetry reading blends the pleasures of food and words into one rich experience. For National Poetry Day, it’s a chance to bring communities together around flavours and verses, and to create an event that feels indulgent, thoughtful, and inspiring.

Celebrate World Smile Day with Food and Drink Parties

The first Friday in October marks World Smile Day, a global celebration inspired by Harvey Ball, the creator of the iconic yellow smiley face. 

The day is all about spreading kindness, positivity, and, of course, smiles. What better way to celebrate than by bringing people together with delicious food and drink? 

After all, sharing a meal has always been one of the most joyful ways to connect.

Why Celebrate with a Food and Drink Party?

Smiles and laughter go hand in hand with good company and good food. 

Whether you’re hosting family, friends, neighbours, or colleagues, a food and drink party is a wonderful way to foster community spirit. Plus, it’s a chance to show thoughtfulness and creativity – two things guaranteed to brighten someone’s day.

Ideas for a World Smile Day Party

1. Smile-Themed Treats

Smiley biscuits: Bake or decorate biscuits with cheerful faces using icing and sweets.

Fruit platters: Arrange fruits like bananas, oranges, and berries into smiling faces.

Cupcakes: Top them with yellow buttercream and edible smiley toppers.

These simple touches make your table spread more festive and encourage everyone to join in the fun.

2. Drinks to Spark Joy

Mocktails or cocktails with bright colours and fruity garnishes that look as cheerful as they taste.

Smiley straws or stirrers to give an extra playful feel.

A “Sunshine Punch” – a citrus-based drink that’s refreshing, uplifting, and naturally smile-inducing.

3. Community Potluck

Encourage everyone to bring a dish that makes them smile. It could be a nostalgic childhood recipe, comfort food, or even something quirky and new. Sharing the stories behind these dishes makes the event even more memorable.

4. Acts of Kindness at the Party

Since World Smile Day is also about doing good, why not add a charitable element? Invite guests to bring non-perishable foods for a local food bank, or donate a small portion of the party budget to a community cause. Smiles grow even bigger when shared with those in need.

5. Games and Icebreakers

Keep the mood light with smile-focused activities:

A “make me smile” charades round.

A photo booth with smiley props.

A “compliment exchange” where everyone writes down something nice about another guest.

Making the Celebration Last

The beauty of World Smile Day is that it’s not just about one day—it’s about encouraging a habit of kindness and joy. A smile shared at your food and drink party could be the spark that carries positivity into the days ahead.

So this World Smile Day, gather your friends, whip up some cheerful treats, raise a glass of something bright and bubbly, and celebrate the simplest yet most powerful act of all: smiling.

Celebrating International Day of Older Persons with Food and Drinks

Every year on 1st October, we celebrate the International Day of Older Persons – a moment to recognise the contributions, wisdom, and presence of older members of our families and communities. 

It’s also an opportunity to pause and think about how we can make their lives brighter, healthier, and more enjoyable. 

And what better way to do that than by gathering around a table with carefully chosen food and drinks?

Whether you’re hosting a small family tea, organising a community lunch, or simply treating an older friend to their favourite snack, thoughtful choices in what you serve can make all the difference.

Thoughtful Drinks for Older Guests

Hydration is especially important as we age, so drinks should be plentiful, enjoyable, and easy to digest. Consider:

Herbal and fruit teas – Chamomile, peppermint, or berry blends are gentle on the stomach and caffeine-free.

Classic black tea – Many older people cherish their daily cuppa; offer decaffeinated options for those sensitive to caffeine.

Fruit-infused water – Adding slices of orange, cucumber, or berries makes plain water more appealing and refreshing.

Milk-based drinks – Warm milk with a dash of nutmeg or cocoa provides calcium and a comforting touch.

Low-sugar smoothies – Blend banana, yoghurt, and a handful of berries for a nutrient-rich option that’s easy to sip.

Food That Brings Comfort and Nutrition

Meals and snacks for older people should balance familiar flavours with nutritional value and ease of eating. Some ideas include:

Soft sandwiches – Wholemeal bread filled with egg mayo, salmon paste, or cream cheese and cucumber.

Hearty soups – Vegetable, chicken, or lentil soup served with soft rolls are warming and nourishing.

Traditional puddings – Rice pudding, bread-and-butter pudding, or stewed fruit with custard often spark fond memories.

Finger foods – Mini quiches, cheese cubes, sliced fruit, or oatcakes are easy for social gatherings.

Healthy bakes – Muffins made with oats, banana, or apple give a sweet treat without being too heavy.

Community Celebrations

If you’re marking the day in a community centre, church hall, or social club, why not create a themed afternoon tea? A spread of sandwiches, scones with jam, and a pot of tea can make the occasion feel special while being accessible for everyone.

You might also consider:

Recipe sharing – Invite older guests to bring or suggest recipes they’ve loved for decades, and prepare them together.

Cooking demonstrations – Show easy, nutritious meals designed with older appetites in mind.

Storytelling over supper – Encourage conversation about favourite family meals or food traditions.

More Than a Meal

Food is more than just fuel – it’s about connection. Celebrating the International Day of Older Persons with shared meals helps combat loneliness, honours tradition, and reminds older people that they are valued members of our families and communities.

So, whether you’re pouring a comforting cup of tea, cooking up a pot of soup, or sitting down to enjoy a slice of homemade cake, remember that the time and thought you put into these moments matters as much as the food itself.

Sober October: A Month to Reset, Reflect, and Rebalance

October isn’t just about pumpkins, falling leaves, and the run-up to Halloween. 

For many people, it’s also a time to take part in Sober October—a month-long challenge that involves cutting out alcohol entirely.

What started as a fundraising initiative has grown into a wider wellbeing movement. 

It’s a chance to give your body and mind a break, save money, and maybe even reset your relationship with drinking.

What is Sober October?

Sober October was popularised by Macmillan Cancer Support in the UK as a fundraising campaign. Participants pledge to go alcohol-free for the whole month, raising money through sponsorship. Over time, the concept has spread beyond charity fundraising—many people now take part for personal health reasons too.

The idea is simple: put down the wine glass, beer can, or cocktail shaker, and spend the month alcohol-free. Whether you’re doing it to support a good cause or simply to take stock of your lifestyle, it’s a powerful reset.

Benefits of Going Sober for a Month

Even four weeks without alcohol can bring noticeable changes. Some of the most common benefits include:

Better sleep – Alcohol can disrupt deep sleep, so cutting it out often improves rest and energy levels.

Clearer skin – Hydration improves, and many notice a healthy glow.

Weight management – Skipping the empty calories in alcohol and late-night snacks that often follow can help with weight loss.

Improved focus and mood – With no “hangxiety” or foggy mornings, many feel sharper and more balanced.

Financial savings – Nights out, bottles of wine, or craft beers add up quickly. A sober month can leave your wallet healthier too.

How to Succeed at Sober October

For some, the challenge is easier said than done. Here are a few tips to stay on track:

Find alternatives – Stock up on alcohol-free beers, botanical spirits, kombucha, or even just fancy sparkling water with citrus.

Change your routine – If you usually wind down with a glass of wine, swap it for an evening walk, a new book, or herbal tea.

Get support – Encourage friends or family to join you, or connect with online groups taking part.

Remember your “why” – Whether it’s raising money for charity, improving health, or breaking a habit, keep your motivation clear.

Reward yourself – Treat yourself with the money saved—whether that’s a massage, a new gadget, or simply putting it aside for something special.

Beyond October

Some people go back to their usual drinking habits in November, but others find that Sober October inspires longer-term change. You might discover you enjoy alcohol-free socialising more than expected, or that moderation suits you better after the reset.

Even if you return to drinking, the experience often brings a new awareness of how alcohol affects your body and mind.

Final (sober) Thoughts

Sober October is more than a month off booze—it’s a chance to re-evaluate, recharge, and maybe start healthier habits. Whether you’re in it for charity, health, or curiosity, the benefits are hard to ignore.

This October, why not give it a go? You may just surprise yourself with how good sobriety feels.

Firebrand Brewing Co. Collaborates With Blue Balls Cornwall to Create New Non-Alcoholic Hazy IPA for Sober October

Launceston's Firebrand Brewing Co. is delighted to unveil Blue Balls, their new non-alcoholic hazy IPA created in collaboration with Blue Balls Cornwall, the men's cold water swimming group. 

Firebrand Brewing Co will be donating £1 to Man Down, the Cornwall-based men's mental health CIC, for every online order of Blue Balls throughout Sober October.

Joe Thomson, Co-owner and Head Brewer at Firebrand Brewing Co. told That's Food and Drink: “We were approached by Blue Balls Cornwall to create a non-alcoholic beer and we jumped at the chance. 

"Blue Balls has built a supportive community, here in Cornwall, that helps men develop a positive coping mechanism for dealing with mental health issues. 

"Alcohol misuse is often linked to mental health struggles, so offering a healthier, non-alcoholic option reinforces their mission. We will be serving up the new Blue Balls beer at their regular dips. 

"These are sea swimming meet-ups that bring men together in a relaxed, natural setting and we hope this will encourage them to hang out and chat with friends after the swim.”

Blue Balls was set up in Cornwall by two friends, Ross and Tom, who wanted to encourage men across the county to join them and discover the benefits that cold water swimming can have on health and wellbeing, while raising awareness and providing support for men's mental health. 

Tom Mason, co-founder of Blue Balls Cornwall explains: “We're really delighted to be working with Firebrand Brewing Co. and really looking forward to celebrating with a Blue Balls Hazy IPA. Just like a fresh dip in the wild Cornish ocean, our collaboration beer is best enjoyed cold, surrounded by your mates.”

Blue Balls (ABV 0.5%) is a non-alcoholic hazy IPA packed full of fruity flavour. It's the perfect beer to enjoy cold, by the sea, with friends and without the risk of any hangovers. It's also gluten free and vegan friendly and is available from www.firebrandbrewing.co.uk RRP £2.80 per 440ml can. 

Joe finishes: “The statistics around men's mental health and male suicides are incredibly sobering. We are pleased to contribute in some small way to raising awareness for men's mental health and we will be donating £1, for every online order of Blue Balls throughout Sober October, directly to Man Down, the Cornwall-based men's mental health CIC. 

"We hope that, within the Blue Balls community and beyond, sharing a few of our non-alcoholic beers with friends will create a positive environment for supporting each other.”

Firebrand Brewing Co was created in 2012 in a converted milking parlour on the untamed edge of Bodmin Moor, North Cornwall. The idea was born from a passion for beer made from all-natural ingredients, Cornish spring water and American hops. For further information on Firebrand Brewing Co. please visit www.firebrandbrewing.co.uk or follow them on Facebook and Instagram. 

Blue Balls Cornwall is a  men's cold water swimming group that promotes the benefits that cold water swimming can have on health and wellbeing, while raising awareness and providing support for men's mental health. For further information on Blue Balls follow them on Facebook and Instagram.

Man Down is a non-profit Community Interest Company founded in Cornwall, dedicated to supporting men with mental health challenges. Founded by Ross Jackson Hicks, they aim to foster open conversation and break the stigma which surrounds men's mental health, ultimately hoping to reduce the number of male suicides that take place every year. For further information visit https://mandown.org or follow them on Instagram and Facebook.