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Throw Out Your Leftovers Day

November 29

Throw Out Your Leftovers Day

Time to clear out your fridge! Celebrate Throw Out Your Leftovers Day with a delicious meal and get rid of any unwanted food safely.

Yearly Date
November 29
Observed in
United States
Category
Lifestyle
Subcategory
Cleaning & Household Care
Holiday Calendar
Last updated February 7, 2026 by the Holiday Calendar Team
Have an update or spot an error?

Introduction

Get ready to freshen up your fridge on Throw Out Your Leftovers Day, which falls annually on Nov. 29th! This day is all about inspiring people to take a look at the food they have in their homes and get rid of anything that's gone bad or isn't safe to eat anymore. It was created as a way for us to practice good hygiene and make sure our kitchens are clean and tidy. So don't let your food spoil - join us in celebrating Throw Out Your Leftovers Day!

Throw Out Your Leftovers Day Timeline

2016
Creation of the Day
The first Throw Out Your Leftovers Day is observed, encouraging good kitchen hygiene and food safety.
2017
Growing Awareness
News outlets start reporting about the day, enhancing its visibility and global awareness.
2018
Culinary Blogs and Advocacy
Food bloggers start to acknowledge the day, offering tips on re-purposing leftovers before they spoil.
2019
Incorporation in Schools
Educational institutions begin to incorporate food waste understanding as part of their curriculum, coinciding with Throw Out Your Leftovers Day.
2020
Pandemic Highlights Importance
The Covid-19 pandemic shines a light on food security and the importance of not wasting food, making Throw Out Your Leftovers Day more relevant.

How to Celebrate Throw Out Your Leftovers Day

1

Organize a potluck

Invite your friends over and have everyone bring the leftovers from their fridge. You can then make a fun meal out of all the odds and ends.

2

Make a soup

Throw all your leftovers into a big pot and let simmer. The flavors will mix together to create a delicious and unique soup.

3

Donate to a food bank

Your leftovers may be too old for you, but they could still be eaten by someone else in need. Donate to your local food bank or pantry.

4

Have a picnic

Pack up all your leftovers and head outside for a picnic. Enjoy the fresh air while you enjoy all your delicious (and free!) food.

5

Host a cooking competition

Challenge your friends to a cooking competition with whatever ingredients are left in their fridge or pantry. See who can come up with the most creative dish!

Why We Love Throw Out Your Leftovers Day

A

Reduce Food Waste

Throwing out your leftovers helps reduce food waste and allows us to make better use of the resources available. With global and local food shortages, reducing waste of any kind can go a long way in helping those less fortunate who may not have access to regular meals.

B

Save Money

By throwing out your leftovers, you're saving yourself money. No more wasting precious groceries by letting them go bad or having them take up precious storage space. The cost savings can really add up over time!

C

Eat Healthier

When you throw out your leftovers, it helps encourage healthier eating habits. Instead of eating leftover pizza or Chinese food, it encourages you to cook fresh meals that contain fewer calories and offer more nutritional value. Plus, cooking with fresh ingredients always tastes better than reheated leftovers!

Holiday Dates

Year Date Day
2023 Nov 29 Wednesday
2024 Nov 29 Friday
2025 Nov 29 Saturday
2026 Nov 29 Sunday
2027 Nov 29 Monday