National Ice Cream Day on July 19th: Celebrate with Sweet Deals, and Don’t Forget Your Local Scoop Shop

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There’s something about ice cream that brings people together. Whether it’s a child proudly holding their very first cone, friends gathering after a summer festival, or grandparents treating the grandkids on a warm July afternoon, ice cream has a way of turning ordinary moments into lasting memories.

Today, communities across the country are celebrating National Ice Cream Day, observed each year on the third Sunday in July. The holiday is part of National Ice Cream Month, a designation established by President Ronald Reagan in 1984 to recognize one of America’s favorite frozen treats and the joy it brings to families nationwide.

While many national brands are offering special promotions to mark the occasion, National Ice Cream Day is also a wonderful reminder to support the locally owned ice cream shops that help make our communities special. Independent businesses often serve as neighborhood gathering places where memories are made one scoop at a time.

Sweet Deals to Enjoy Today

If you’re looking for a frozen treat, several national chains are celebrating with limited-time offers, including:

• Dairy Queen – Rewards members can receive a free Dilly Bar with a qualifying purchase through the DQ App.

• Dippin’ Dots – Free mini cups will be available at participating franchise locations while supplies last.

• Friendly’s – Participating locations are offering a free single-scoop cone with no purchase necessary.

• Wendy’s – Enjoy a small Frosty for just $1 through the Wendy’s app.

• Häagen-Dazs Shops – Rewards members can take advantage of a Buy One, Get One Free sundae offer.

• Cold Stone Creamery, Carvel, Handel’s, Marble Slab Creamery, Insomnia Cookies, and other brands are also offering special promotions, giveaways, or rewards for customers.

Offers may vary by location, so be sure to check with your local restaurant or download the company’s app for details before visiting.

❤️ Scoop Local

While national deals are fun, this holiday is also a great opportunity to discover a neighborhood favorite or revisit the local ice cream shop you’ve loved for years. From handcrafted waffle cones and homemade fudge to unique seasonal flavors and family recipes passed down through generations, local ice cream parlors offer experiences that can’t always be found at larger chains. Every purchase also helps support local entrepreneurs, creates jobs, and strengthens the community.

If you’re heading out today, consider making your first stop a locally owned business. You may just discover your new favorite flavor.

🍦 We Want to Hear From You!

What’s your favorite ice cream flavor?

More importantly, where’s your favorite local spot to grab a scoop?

Tell us in the comments and tag your favorite ice cream shop. We may feature some of your recommendations in an upcoming Chronicle community roundup celebrating Michigan’s best places for frozen treats.

Happy National Ice Cream Day from all of us at The Chronicle, here’s to sweet moments, smiling faces, and making memories one scoop at a time.