When Is National Ice Cream Day

Ice cream lovers across the United States have a special day each year to celebrate their favorite frozen treat. Known as National Ice Cream Day, this holiday has become a beloved tradition where families, friends, and dessert enthusiasts indulge in scoops, cones, and sundaes of every flavor imaginable. But when exactly is National Ice Cream Day, and how did it start? Let’s break it down.

When is National Ice Cream Day Celebrated

National Ice Cream Day takes place every year on the third Sunday of July. Since the exact date shifts annually, it always lands in mid-July, one of the warmest summer months in the U.S., making it the perfect time to cool off with a favorite frozen treat.

• In 2025, National Ice Cream Day will be celebrated on Sunday, July 20.
• In 2026, it will fall on Sunday, July 19.
• In 2027, it will take place on Sunday, July 18.

Beyond the single day, the entire month of July is recognized as National Ice Cream Month, giving ice cream lovers plenty of opportunities to indulge. Many people also take advantage of special offers, like using a Dairy Queen coupon, to make the celebration even sweeter.

The History of National Ice Cream Day

The origins of this sweet holiday trace back to 1984, when President Ronald Reagan signed a presidential proclamation declaring July as National Ice Cream Month and designating the third Sunday of July as National Ice Cream Day.

Reagan praised ice cream as “a nutritious and wholesome food enjoyed by over 90 percent of the people in the United States” and encouraged citizens to celebrate with “appropriate ceremonies and activities.”

Since then, it has become an annual tradition for ice cream shops, restaurants, and grocery stores to host promotions, giveaways, and special events in honor of the day.

Why July is the Perfect Month for Ice Cream

July is not only peak summer in the Northern Hemisphere but also the busiest month for ice cream sales. Families gather for barbecues, beach trips, and summer parties where ice cream often takes center stage.

The timing of National Ice Cream Day in July is no coincidence—it was chosen to align with both the hot weather and the long-standing popularity of ice cream during summer.

How to Celebrate National Ice Cream Day

There are countless fun ways to enjoy National Ice Cream Day, whether at home or out in the community. Some popular ideas include:

• Visit a local ice cream shop for a new flavor or a classic favorite.
• Make homemade ice cream with family or friends.
• Host an ice cream party with toppings, cones, and creative sundaes.
• Look for deals and freebies, as many chains like Dairy Queen, Baskin-Robbins, and Cold Stone often run promotions.
• Try dairy-free or unique flavors to explore new options.

Fun Facts About Ice Cream

• The average American eats about 20 pounds of ice cream per year.
• Vanilla remains the most popular flavor, followed by chocolate and cookies & cream.
• The waffle cone was invented at the 1904 World’s Fair in St. Louis.
• The U.S. leads the world in ice cream consumption, with California producing the most.

National Ice Cream Day isn’t just about indulging in a frozen treat, it’s a celebration of a timeless American favorite enjoyed for generations. Held every year on the third Sunday in July, it’s the perfect chance to cool down, savor sweet flavors like the popular DQ Blizzard flavors, and embrace the joyful spirit of summer.

So mark your calendar, grab a cone, and celebrate National Ice Cream Day 2025 on July 20 with your favorite scoop.