Each year, Alaska’s engineers, architects, construction professionals, designers, and creative teams put their skills to work by building incredible structures entirely out of canned food.
It’s part design challenge, part friendly competition, and all for a good cause. Once CANstruction ends, every can used in the structures is donated to Food Bank of Alaska to help provide food for neighbors facing food insecurity.
CANstruction 2027 Dates
Registration Deadline: Friday, December 18, 2026
Registration Fee: $50
Can Order Deadline: Friday, February 19, 2027
Build Day: Friday, April 16, 2027
De-CANstruction: Friday, April 30, 2027
Location: Dimond Center
How CANstruction Works
CANstruction teams participate from concept through De-CANstruction.
After registering, each team develops a design for a structure that fits within a 10' x 10' x 10' space and is built entirely from canned food. Teams determine which cans they need, place their can order by the deadline, and prepare their design for Build Day.
On Build Day, teams meet at the Dimond Center to construct their sculptures. The completed structures remain on display for the community to see throughout the competition.
At the end of the event, teams return for De-CANstruction to carefully take their structures apart. Every can is then donated to Food Bank of Alaska and distributed through our statewide network to help Alaskans facing food insecurity.
Teams can include engineers, architects, construction professionals, designers, coworkers, students, or any group ready to take on the challenge. You do not need to be a professional builder to participate. You just need a team, a plan, and a creative idea
Ready to Build?
Gather your team and register for CANstruction 2027 by Friday, December 18, 2026.
Registration is $50 per team.
Thank you to the teams and supporters who make CANstruction possible. Your creativity helps put food on tables across Alaska.
YOU MAY NEED TO KNOW
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can participate at the event?
Teams made up of architects, engineers, contractors, students, and other community groups are all welcome. Creativity and teamwork are the name of the game.
How are the cans procured?
Most teams fundraise to purchase their cans. Some opt to shop on their own, but Carrs and Fred Meyer offer canned goods at a discounted price specifically for CANstruction teams.
To order through one of our partner stores, fill out the appropriate form:
How do teams fund their cans?
Teams can fundraise or receive company support, but the funds go directly to Food Bank of Alaska as a charitable donation.
What is the typical cost for a CANstructure?
Costs vary depending on the cans used, but most teams spend between $3,000 to $7,000. However, smaller structures are welcome too!
Can teams practice building on-site?
No, practice building on-site is not allowed, but feel free to practice at your own location.
Can larger cans be used?
Yes! Larger cans are welcome, and Food Bank of Alaska can distribute them through their 150+ agency partners.
Where is CANstruction located?
At the Dimond Center Mall in Anchorage, Alaska.
How can I get involved?
Team registration for 2027 opens in October 2026. If you'd like to be notified or get involved in other ways—sponsorships, volunteering, or promotion—reach out to us anytime at canstruction@foodbankofalaska.org.
Who can I contact if I have questions?
Email anyone on our steering committee at canstruction@foodbankofalaska.org.