Celebrate National Ice Cream Day with Exciting Freebies and Deals

Washington DC, United States Jul 19, 2026 ALN: There are many reasons to scream right now—from cyclospora to corrupt politicians avoiding accountability. However, what if instead we collectively squealed for ice cream on National Ice Cream Day? Well, we’re in luck because it’s today: Sunday, July 19, 2026. This day is a celebration of one of the most beloved desserts in the world, and it brings with it a variety of exciting deals and freebies that ice cream lovers can enjoy.

To truly appreciate National Ice Cream Day, it’s worthwhile to delve into the history and evolution of ice cream itself. This delectable treat has a rich and fascinating background that spans centuries and cultures.

Before machines, how was ice cream made?

Ice cream is composed of a few basic ingredients: cream, sugar, air, and frozen water. The flavors added to this mixture often depended on individual taste preferences, which varied widely across different cultures. Before the advent of modern refrigeration and ice cream machines, the process of making ice cream was labor-intensive. Ingredients were combined in a separate container, which was then surrounded by a mixture of ice and salt. This combination created a temperature that was low enough to freeze the mixture.

The stirring and churning of the ice cream mixture had to be done by hand, which made the process quite labor-intensive and time-consuming. Because of this, ice cream was historically a luxury item, primarily enjoyed by the wealthy elite who could afford the labor and the ingredients required to produce it.

Who invented ice cream?

A fascinating aspect of ice cream is that many cultures around the world have created their own variations of frozen desserts, paving the way for what we now recognize as ice cream. During the Tang Dynasty in ancient China, a precursor to ice cream was made by mixing buffalo milk with ice and flavoring it with camphor. This early version was a sweet drink rather than the solid treat we enjoy today. In ancient Rome, Emperor Nero was known to enjoy iced beverages sweetened with honey, and in India, the Mughal emperors relished a frozen dessert called kulfi, made from condensed milk.

In England, the history of ice cream can be traced back to the 17th century, when Elias Ashmole noted in his writings that King Charles II was served ice cream at a lavish banquet. This indicates that ice cream was already becoming a popular delicacy among the European aristocracy. In America, ice cream gained prominence in the 18th century, notably when President Thomas Jefferson served it at the White House. Jefferson was an avid ice cream enthusiast, and after his death, he left behind several recipes, including one for French vanilla ice cream, which remains a classic flavor to this day.

What inventions helped bring ice cream to the masses?

The journey of ice cream from a delicacy for the elite to a popular treat for the masses was significantly accelerated by several key inventions. One of the most notable was the hand-cranked ice cream maker, invented by Nancy M. Johnson in 1843. Johnson's invention, which she patented as the "Artificial Freezer," revolutionized the ice cream-making process by reducing the labor involved and allowing ice cream to be churned more efficiently. This innovation made it possible for more people to enjoy ice cream at home.

Another major milestone in the history of ice cream was the introduction of the home refrigerator in the early 20th century. By 1910, refrigerators began to replace the outdated ice boxes that many households used to store food. This technological advancement not only made it easier to make and store ice cream but also contributed to its growing popularity throughout the 20th century. By the 1940s, the combination of these inventions had firmly established ice cream as a staple dessert in American households.

What does Ronald Reagan have to do with National Ice Cream Day?

In 1984, President Ronald Reagan declared July as National Ice Cream Month and designated the third Sunday of July as National Ice Cream Day. This proclamation was part of an effort to encourage the consumption of ice cream and recognize its cultural significance in American society. Reagan's love for ice cream was well-known, and his declaration has helped to solidify the day as a time for ice cream lovers to come together and celebrate their favorite frozen treat.

Where can you get National Ice Cream Day deals?

Now that ice cream belongs to the people, National Ice Cream Day has become a day filled with exciting deals and promotions from various ice cream vendors. Here’s a look at some of the best offers available on this sweet day:

Häagen-Dazs

Häagen-Dazs is offering a buy-one-get-one-free deal for its reward members through the Sundae Funday Club. Customers can choose from a selection of sundaes, including the Caramel Cone Sundae, Chocolate Dipped Strawberry Sundae, or Hot Fudge & Caramel Sundae. This promotion is valid every Sunday in July and will continue until the 26th.

16 Handles

While 16 Handles is often associated with frozen yogurt, it also serves delicious ice cream. On National Ice Cream Day, rewards members can enjoy a free cup of ice cream, valued at up to $5.

Blue Bell Ice Cream

Blue Bell Ice Cream is celebrating National Ice Cream Month with the introduction of a limited-time flavor: Chocolate Lava Cake. This flavor is a nod to the spirit of the occasion and is available throughout the month.

Petco

Ice cream is even better when shared with our furry friends. Petco is offering rewards members a free Ben & Jerry’s ice cream pup cup at participating locations while supplies last. For those who are not yet rewards members, signing up is free and easy.

Dairy Queen

Dairy Queen is joining in on the celebration by offering a free Dilly Bar to DQ Rewards members after making a $1 purchase through the app. This is a sweet way to treat yourself while enjoying your favorite ice cream.

Petty Cool Ice Cream

If you find yourself in Chicago on National Ice Cream Day, you might be in for a delightful surprise. Petty Cool Ice Cream, in partnership with the Chicago Transit Authority, will be giving away free popsicles to the first 300 people who show up at specific train stations throughout the city. This event adds a unique twist to the celebration, combining ice cream with public transit.

Dippin’ Dots

Select Dippin’ Dots locations will be offering free mini cups of their unique ice cream treat during a special two-hour window. Additionally, Chuck E. Cheese is also participating by giving away one free small Dippin’ Dots per household, making it a fun stop for families celebrating National Ice Cream Day.

As we celebrate National Ice Cream Day, it’s important to take a moment to appreciate the history and evolution of this beloved dessert. From its origins as a luxury item enjoyed by the elite to its status as a universally loved treat, ice cream has brought joy to countless people around the world. So, shout for joy, indulge in your favorite flavors, and remember that the challenges of the world can wait while you enjoy your frozen treat!