Every year on October 1st, coffee lovers around the world come together to celebrate International Coffee Day which is more than just an excuse for an extra cup of coffee we swear! It is a celebration of the drink that fuels not only the mornings but also sparks conversations and connects cultures. Whether you are a casual drinker or a coffee connoisseur, there are plenty of ways to join in.
Approximately 98 million cups of coffees are poured every single day across the UK alone. From a morning flat white, quick espresso wake-up shot, iced latte (that saves you on a hot afternoon) or the cafetiere shared with friends on a slow weekend, coffee has poured its way into almost every culture and every daily routine.
It’s not just about the caffeine we all crave either. It’s about the ritual, comfort and social side of it. Some people cannot even start their day without a brew (I know I can’t), while others treasure it as their mid-morning pause or it’s their way of just catching up with someone they have not seen in a while.
With all that being said, here are five ideas to make your day both fun and memorable.
1. Host a Coffee Tasting at Home
How about turning your kitchen into a mini cafe with a coffee tasting session? Pick beans from different origins or try a mix of light, medium and dark roasts. Brew small cups and compare their aromas, body and flavour notes side by side.
To make it feel even more special, set out glasses or small mugs and arrange the coffee in a simple line up. You could also keep some water nearby for you to refresh their palates and maybe even add light snacks like plain biscuits to reset your taste buds.
Think of it as your own little coffee journey. If you did not want to go on this journey alone, why not invite your friends or family to join you? Instantly turning your tasting session into a social event!
2. Support Your Local Coffee Shop
Independent and family-owned cafes and roasters are very important in many communities. And of course, International Coffee Day is just a great chance to show them some much needed love and support. Visit a local coffee shop you have never tried before or order a seasonal special if you are already a regular.
You could have a chat with the baristas about their brewing approach and ask about their current beans or just watch them prepare your drink and soak in their skills. It is a chance to appreciate just what is behind every cup of coffee. Even go ahead and share a photo of your visit on social media, helping spread the word about small businesses in your area even more.
3. Learn a New Brewing Method
If you usually stick to one style of coffee at home, why not experiment with something different. Methods such as pour over, French press, AeroPress or cold brew each bring out unique qualities in the beans.
By adjusting grind size and brew time, it can completely change the taste of the coffee (for better or for worse), making this a fun experiment even with coffee you already have on hand. For guidance, tutorials are easy to find online and some shops also run workshops where you can practice with guidance from experienced brewers.
4. Get Creative with Coffee Inspired Recipes
Coffee does not have to stay in the cup believe it or not, it can shine in the kitchen too. Sweet options such as tiramisu, espresso brownies or coffee ice cream can exaggerate its rich flavours. This does not stop just at desserts, you could also try adding brewed coffee or grounds into savoury dishes like marinades for meat or sauces for roasted vegetables.
You can also make your own syrups at home with flavours like vanilla, cinnamon or caramel to add a cafe style twist to your drinks. Pair your creations with different brews and you have a deliciously themed menu.
5. Educate Yourself on Coffee’s Story
Behind every cup lies a fascinating worldwide story. From the farmers who grow the beans to the roasters who develop flavour, coffee connects people across continents! Taking time on International Coffee Day to learn about these stages can deepen your appreciation for each sip.
One of the most famous tales about coffee’s discovery comes from Ethiopia. According to legend, a goat herder named Kaldi noticed his goats (yes goats) dancing with unusual energy after eating bright red coffee cherries. Being curious and scratching his head, he tried them himself and soon shared his discovery with local monks, who found the cherries helped them stay awake during long prayers. Whether you believe that story or not, it definitely shows how coffee has captured imaginations for centuries you have to admit.
If you really wanted to go further into the education side, you could; watch a documentary, listen to a podcast or read articles that cover ‘coffee’s world history’. You will without a doubt find everything from stories about traditional ceremonies and even modern challenges such as climate change and fair trade. Even choosing beans that are ethically sourced can be your way of supporting both people and the planet while enjoying your daily brew.
Celebrate with Coffee in Hand
So, in a nutshell, make sure to mark your calendar for October 1st and make this International Coffee Day one to remember. Even if you are brewing at home, visiting a local coffee shop, experimenting with brewing methods, trying new coffee recipes or just learning about coffee’s story from farm to cup, each activity adds meaning to your daily ritual.
Raise your mug, share your celebration with friends and enjoy the drink that brings the world together. If you’re local to us here at Ginger Monkey, stop by and try our famous flavours in your usual coffee order.
