July 19th, 2026

National Ice Cream Day

Scream for joy—it's National Ice Cream Day, the sweetest day of the year! Whether you’re a fan of classic vanilla, adventurous with rocky road, or just want to try every flavor under the sun, today is your excuse to indulge without remorse. Ice cream cones, sundaes, milkshakes—you name it, it’s a celebration of frozen fabulousness. So grab a spoon (or a waffle cone), treat yourself to a scoop (or three), and let your taste buds dance in delight. After all, happiness is just a scoop away on this delicious day!

Food Summer Treats
Family Friendship Children Historical Celebration Commemoration Festive
Written by: Isabel Sanchez Isabel Sanchez - (updated: July 19th, 2025 at 9:20AM)

Prepare to embrace the delightful chill, as National Ice Cream Day is swiftly approaching! This delightful celebration is a perfect excuse to dive into the creamy, frozen treat that has the magical ability to bring a smile to faces young and old alike.NationalIceCreamDay

Now, you might be wondering, what exactly is National Ice Cream Day? It's a joyful occasion when ice cream shops and parlors across the nation roll out special deals, tempting discounts, and sometimes even complimentary scoops to honor the day. It's the perfect time to indulge in a cool, mouthwatering delight, whether you gravitate towards the classic charm of vanilla or are eager to explore more adventurous flavors.

Celebrating National Ice Cream Day in Style

So, how can you make the most out of this sweet festivity? Here are some exciting ways to celebrate National Ice Cream Day:

A Brief History of National Ice Cream Day

But have you ever pondered how National Ice Cream Day came into existence? It all began in 1984, when President Ronald Reagan declared the third Sunday in July as National Ice Cream Day. Since then, this annual celebration has become a cherished event that unites people in their love for one of America's most beloved treats.

Fun Facts About Ice Cream

Here are a few delightful tidbits you might find interesting:

As you partake in National Ice Cream Day, take a moment to savor each bite of your favorite frozen treat and create unforgettable memories with your loved ones. After all, it's not just about the ice cream; it's about the joy and togetherness that come with it.

Happy National Ice Cream Day! Treat yourself to a scoop (or two, or three...) of your favorite flavor, and let the festivities begin!

How do you love to celebrate National Ice Cream Day? Do you have a unique flavor preference or a special tradition to share? We'd love to hear your stories and ideas in the comments below!

Recipe for National Ice Cream Day

Celebrate National Ice Cream Day with a sweet and refreshing treat that's sure to bring a smile to everyone's face! Introducing our unique 'Creamy Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Sandwiches' recipe, inspired by the classic summer flavors of fresh strawberries and sweet shortcake. These bite-sized sandwiches are the perfect way to indulge in the creamy goodness of ice cream, paired with the crunch of shortcake cookies and the sweetness of fresh strawberries.



Nutrition Facts
Calories250 calories
Total Fat12g
Total Carbohydrate35g
Protein5g

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Cooking Method: Baking

Category: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Yield: 12 sandwiches

Suitable For Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

NationalIceCreamSundaeDay recipe

Materials

Steps

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
  3. Add the softened butter to the dry ingredients and mix until a crumbly dough forms.
  4. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
  5. Cut out shortcake shapes using a cookie cutter and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  6. Bake the shortcakes for 12-15 minutes, or until lightly golden brown.
  7. Allow the shortcakes to cool completely on a wire rack.
  8. Scoop the strawberry ice cream into balls and place between two shortcakes to form a sandwich.
  9. Dust the tops of the sandwiches with confectioners' sugar and serve immediately, garnished with fresh strawberry slices.
Timeline
1984
Presidents Proclamation
President Ronald Reagan designated July as National Ice Cream Month, and the third Sunday of the month as National Ice Cream Day. He recognized the ice cream industrys economic impact and its role in American culture.
1990
Industry Growth
The ice cream industry experienced significant growth, with the number of ice cream manufacturers increasing by over 20%. This led to a wider variety of flavors and products becoming available.
2000
Flavor Innovation
Ice cream manufacturers began experimenting with unique flavors, such as cookie dough, rocky road, and mint chocolate chip. This innovation helped to revitalize the industry.
2010
Frozen Yogurt Boom
Frozen yogurt became increasingly popular, with many shops opening across the country. This trend helped to expand the ice cream industry as a whole.
2015
Craft Ice Cream Movement
Artisanal ice cream makers started gaining popularity, offering unique flavors and high-quality ingredients. This movement helped to shift the industrys focus towards craftsmanship and creativity.
National Ice Cream Day

National Ice Cream Day Quiz

What is the primary purpose of National Ice Cream Day?

Score: 0/5
FAQ
What is the history of National Ice Cream Day?
National Ice Cream Day was designated by President Ronald Reagan in 1984 to promote the American ice cream industry and celebrate this beloved frozen treat.
How is National Ice Cream Day celebrated?
National Ice Cream Day is celebrated with ice cream-themed events, discounts, and promotions at ice cream shops, parlors, and restaurants across the United States.
What are some unique ice cream flavors to try on National Ice Cream Day?
Unique ice cream flavors to try on National Ice Cream Day include matcha, lavender, and pistachio, as well as seasonal flavors like pumpkin and peppermint.
How can I make my own ice cream at home on National Ice Cream Day?
You can make your own ice cream at home on National Ice Cream Day by using an ice cream maker or a simple recipe with heavy cream, sugar, and flavorings like vanilla or cocoa powder.
What are some fun facts about ice cream on National Ice Cream Day?
Fun facts about ice cream include that the average American consumes around 23 pounds of ice cream per year, and that ice cream was first invented in ancient China around 2000 BC.
Similar Holidays

National Ice Cream Cone Day

September 22nd

National Ice Cream Cone Day, 9/22/2024, indulge in favorite flavors and toppings, special deals and discounts await!more >>

National Barbecue Day

July 4th

National Barbecue Day, 7/4/2024, savor slow-cooked meats, good company, and outdoor cooking joy.more >>

National Soft Ice Cream Day

August 19th

National Soft Ice Cream Day, August 19, 2024: Indulge in creamy, dreamy soft-serve ice cream and savor the sweet treats!more >>

National Cheese Pizza Day

September 5th

National Cheese Pizza Day, 9/5/2024: Indulge in melted, gooey goodness with friends and family, with special deals and discounts!more >>

National Ice Cream Sundae Day

July 8th

National Ice Cream Sundae Day, July 8, 2024. Indulge in creamy treats, get creative with toppings, and share the joy of this beloved dessert!more >>