Every year on the third Sunday in July, something sweet happens across the United States — it's National Ice Cream Day! This frosty celebration brings together people of all ages to enjoy one of America’s favorite frozen treats. Whether you're a fan of creamy vanilla, rich chocolate, or fruity sorbets, this day is your chance to indulge guilt-free. In 2025, National Ice Cream Day lands on Sunday, July 20, and there are plenty of ways to enjoy it, from free scoops to sweet deals.

So why do we celebrate this day, and who started it all? Believe it or not, this sweet tradition dates back to 1984 when former President Ronald Reagan officially declared July as National Ice Cream Month and the third Sunday of the month as National Ice Cream Day. His goal? To honor a dessert that brings joy to over 90% of Americans. That’s right — no matter where you go, chances are, someone nearby is enjoying a cone or cup of their favorite frozen delight.

Whether you're planning to hit up a local ice cream shop or make your own batch at home, this article will walk you through everything you need to know about National Ice Cream Day. From its origins to where to find the best deals this year, we've got you covered. Let's dive in and explore the cold, creamy world of National Ice Cream Day!

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Table of Contents

• The Origins of National Ice Cream Day
• How to Celebrate National Ice Cream Day
• Where to Find Free and Discounted Ice Cream
• Fun Facts About America’s Favorite Frozen Treat
• Frequently Asked Questions

The Origins of National Ice Cream Day

It all started back in 1984, when President Ronald Reagan made it official. He signed a joint resolution from Congress that declared July as National Ice Cream Month and the third Sunday as National Ice Cream Day. That Sunday was meant to be a time for people to come together and enjoy a treat that had become a staple in American culture.

So what was the big deal about ice cream, anyway? Well, at the time, the frozen dessert was already super popular, with over 90% of households keeping a pint or two in the freezer. It was a symbol of summer, celebration, and comfort. Reagan wanted to highlight that joy and bring attention to an industry that was not only delicious but also economically important.

Today, the tradition lives on. Every third Sunday in July, ice cream shops, grocery stores, and restaurants offer special promotions, freebies, and events to honor the occasion. It’s also a great time for people to reflect on their favorite flavors and maybe even try something new.

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How to Celebrate National Ice Cream Day

There's no one-size-fits-all way to celebrate National Ice Cream Day. Whether you're a die-hard fan or just enjoy a scoop now and then, there are tons of fun and creative ways to get in on the action.

Here are a few ideas to make the most of the day:

• Try a New Flavor: Step outside your comfort zone and sample something you've never had before. Maybe give salted caramel, matcha green tea, or even bacon maple a try!
• Host an Ice Cream Bar: Set up a DIY sundae station with a variety of toppings like sprinkles, syrups, nuts, whipped cream, and more.
• Make Your Own: If you have an ice cream maker at home, experiment with homemade batches. You can even make no-churn versions that don’t require any special equipment.
• Support Local Shops: Many small businesses participate in National Ice Cream Day by offering discounts or free scoops. Supporting local shops helps keep communities vibrant.
• Pair It With Pie: There’s no better combo than ice cream and pie. Grab a slice of apple, cherry, or key lime and top it with your favorite frozen treat.

However you choose to celebrate, the key is to enjoy! National Ice Cream Day is all about savoring a little sweetness in the middle of summer.

Where to Find Free and Discounted Ice Cream

One of the best parts of National Ice Cream Day is the deals! Lots of popular chains and local spots offer free or discounted ice cream to celebrate the occasion. Here are a few places you might want to check out this year:

• Dairy Queen: Known for their famous soft serve, DQ often gives away free small cones on National Ice Cream Day.
• Wendy’s: The fast-food chain frequently hands out free Jr. Frosties to celebrate the occasion.
• Baskin-Robbins: With over 31 flavors to choose from, they sometimes offer a special deal like a discounted scoop or a free small cone.
• Carvel: Another classic ice cream brand that often runs promotions on National Ice Cream Day.

Of course, it’s always a good idea to call or check the store’s website or social media before heading out, just to be sure they’re participating. And if you’re not near a chain, many local ice cream shops also join in the fun, so be sure to explore what’s in your neighborhood.

Fun Facts About America’s Favorite Frozen Treat

Ice cream is more than just a tasty dessert — it’s got a rich history and some surprising stats. Here are a few fun facts to impress your friends next time you’re at the ice cream shop:

• Vanilla is the most popular flavor in the U.S. According to the International Dairy Foods Association, vanilla consistently tops the list of favorites.
• Ice cream has been around for centuries. While it’s hard to say exactly when it was invented, there are records of ice cream-like desserts dating back to ancient Rome and China.
• Ben & Jerry’s started in a renovated gas station. In 1978, Ben Cohen and Jerry Greenfield opened their first ice cream shop in Burlington, Vermont — and the rest is history.
• The average American eats about 23 pounds of ice cream each year. That’s about 1.5 gallons!
• Soft serve has less fat than regular ice cream. Because it’s whipped with air, it’s lighter and contains less milkfat.

And here's a bonus: Did you know National Ice Cream Day actually falls during National Ice Cream Month? Yep, July is the official month-long celebration of frozen delight, and the third Sunday is just the sweetest day of them all.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is National Ice Cream Day 2025?
National Ice Cream Day 2025 is on Sunday, July 20. It always falls on the third Sunday of July each year.

Who started National Ice Cream Day?
Former President Ronald Reagan officially established National Ice Cream Day in 1984 through a joint resolution signed by Congress.

Do all ice cream shops offer free ice cream on National Ice Cream Day?
Not all, but many local and national chains do offer special promotions like free cones, scoops, or discounts. It’s best to check with your local shop to see what they’re offering.

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