Few summer traditions unite Americans quite like ice cream. Whether it's a towering waffle cone, a chocolate-dipped soft serve or a nostalgic banana split, National Ice Cream Day gives everyone an excuse to indulge.
Celebrated each year on the third Sunday in July — That's today! — National Ice Cream Day dates back to 1984, when President Ronald Reagan signed a proclamation designating both July as National Ice Cream Month and the third Sunday of the month as National Ice Cream Day. Reagan called ice cream a food enjoyed by "over 90 percent of the people in the United States," encouraging Americans to celebrate the dairy treat.
And, near the end of July when summer's heat tightens its grip, is there a better treat to beat the heat than some ice cream? (Head to Facebook or X and tell us your favorite flavor .. and why it's Rocky Road. Just kidding. But it's pretty darn good!) According to the International Dairy Foods Association's 2026 National Ice Cream & Frozen Novelty Trends Survey released in April, the favorite flavors among Americans at chocolate, butter pecan, vanilla, cookies & cream and caramel/salted caramel.
Several chains, including Dairy Queen Grill 'n Chill and the Baskin-Robbins in Buenaventura Lakes are offering up deals in honor of the national day. Abracadabra Ice Cream Factory and Pops Waffle & Ice Cream Shoppe in downtown Kissimmee and St. Cloud respectively are local favorite independent shops.
