National Ice Cream Day
Cool down with America's favorite frozen treat on National Ice Cream Day! This sweet celebration honors the beloved dessert that brings joy to people of all ages. From classic vanilla to exotic flavors, ice cream is the perfect way to beat the summer heat and create sweet memories with family and friends.
About National Ice Cream Day
Cool down with America's favorite frozen treat on National Ice Cream Day! This sweet celebration honors the beloved dessert that brings joy to people of all ages. From classic vanilla to exotic flavors, ice cream is the perfect way to beat the summer heat and create sweet memories with family and friends.
History & origins
National Ice Cream Day grew out of the United States' 1984 National Ice Cream Month celebration, when Congress and President Ronald Reagan formally highlighted ice cream as part of a summer food promotion. What began as a one-time federal recognition later evolved into a widely repeated annual observance. Today, the day is used to spotlight ice cream shops, seasonal specials, and summer dessert traditions.
Why it matters
National Ice Cream Day is a simple but culturally recognizable summer food observance that boosts ice cream shops, dairy brands, and seasonal promotions. It also gives families and friends an easy excuse to share a nostalgic dessert, try new flavors, and celebrate a treat that is deeply woven into American snack and dessert culture.
How to celebrate
Visit your favorite ice cream shop and try a new flavor. Make homemade ice cream with family and friends. Host an ice cream social with different flavors and toppings. Create an ice cream sundae bar with various syrups, sprinkles, and fruits. Share your favorite ice cream memories and photos on social media with #NationalIceCreamDay.
Facts
- Americans eat an average of 23 pounds of ice cream per person each year
- The most popular ice cream flavor in America is vanilla
- Ice cream was first introduced to America by European colonists
- It takes about 50 licks to finish a single scoop of ice cream
- The largest ice cream cone ever made was over 9 feet tall
Upcoming dates
- Monday, July 20, 2026
- Tuesday, July 20, 2027
- Thursday, July 20, 2028
- Friday, July 20, 2029
- Saturday, July 20, 2030
Frequently asked questions
When is National Ice Cream Day 2026?
National Ice Cream Day in 2026 is on Monday, July 20, 2026. It is observed on July 20 each year.
What is National Ice Cream Day?
National Ice Cream Day is a food observance celebrating ice cream and the role it plays in summer traditions and dessert culture.
Who started National Ice Cream Day?
The observance began in 1984 with a U.S. congressional resolution and a presidential proclamation by Ronald Reagan. It was originally created as part of National Ice Cream Month and was first set for July 15, 1984.
How do people celebrate National Ice Cream Day?
People celebrate by visiting local ice cream shops, making homemade ice cream, or hosting an ice cream social with toppings and sundaes. It is also popular to post favorite flavors and frozen-treat photos on social media.
Is National Ice Cream Day an official holiday?
It is not a federal holiday, but it does have an official 1984 U.S. proclamation behind it. Today, it is generally treated as an informal annual observance rather than a day off from work or school.
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