This is especially felt when the summer season reaches its climax and the only remedy can be one scoop of our favorite ice cream. Numerous lovers of this delicious dessert celebrate National Ice Cream Day annually on the third Sunday of July. This beautiful day is not just a reason to eat a sweet treat, it is a special day dedicated to one of the most beloved American desserts, and surely a perfect reason to come together with loved ones.
The Sweet History of Ice Cream
The history of ice cream is a rather interesting one and it actually dates back to ancient days. From the existing records, it can be realized that the Persian Empire used to have a chilled dessert prepared from snow and some fruits’ juice. Over time and in the Roman Empire’s period, Nero tasting ice was provided from mountains and later on he added honey and fruits and thus the formation of the Ice cream. Yet, the treat only started resembling something similar to present day ice-cream in the 18th century because of better freezing methods and the addition of dairy products.
It is also for the record that the social acceptance of ice cream increased drastically in the United States in the 19th century. Famous for his exquisite taste, politician Thomas Jefferson has been thought to have introduced a vanilla ice cream recipe to America. Thus, ice cream parlors combined with soda fountains as a normal social phenomenon by the beginning of the twentieth century created a platform for people from all walks of life to enjoy this particular dessert. 
The Birth of National Ice Cream Day
According to most sources, the National Ice Cream Day exists thanks to Ronald Reagan who used his presidential powers and signed the day into existence. In light of the demographics and economic consideration, Reagan made the month of July as the national ice cream month and the third Sunday of July as the national ice cream day in 1984. This declaration was not only sounding the favorite treat but also was an acknowledgment of the efforts made by the employees in the dairy industry.
Celebrating with Scoops and Smiles
To celebrate National Ice Cream Day ice cream shops, parlors and even some grocery stores give out free scoops, discounts and even introduce new ice cream flavors. It is that day when everyone gets the favorite ice cream: in a cone or a cup with whipped cream, toppings or trying a new flavors.
Perhaps, the least but one of the most interesting aspects of National Ice Cream Day is the feeling of reminiscence. The traditional image of youth is associated with a summer time, chasing the ice cream truck in the street, a tasting on a hot day a piece of ice cream at a fair or having an ice cream Sundae with your family. It’s these sweet moments which define ice-cream, and so, it is not simply a dessert, but a dessert that belongs to all of us. 
Fun Ways to Enjoy National Ice Cream Day
National Ice Cream day offers an opportunity to enjoy ice cream in numerous ways that cannot be fully listed.
- Visit a Local Ice Cream Shop: Patronize physical shops and visit an ice cream parlor of your choice. Enduring most shops open during the daytime, it is not rare to find special offers and limited flavors for the event.
- Make Your Own Ice Cream: They should also consider preparing ice cream at home since it is an easy task and not very time consuming. Whether using an ice cream maker or following a no churn recipe, the creativity possibilities are limitless.
- Host an Ice Cream Social: You can invite friends and family members over for ice cream and feed them some of the ice cream. This event can be organized by preparing several types of sauces and toppings and let people prepare their own sundae.
- Try Something New: Go out of the comfort zone and choose a different flavor or something special, like an ice cream art. You could potentially find a new favorite!
- Share the Joy: Make someone’s day sweeter by going out and sharing a delicious ice cream with them. The recipient can be anyone – a friend, neighbor or stranger who can be made to smile through an act of kindness.
National Ice Cream Day is something that always makes me take a pause and focus on the little things in life. So, no matter whether you are a traditionalist or enjoy new kinds of sweets, this day is about rejoicing in the appreciation of something sweet that unites people. Therefore, take a cone, scoop or sundae and be part of the nation that celebrates this sweet delight, ice cream.
Written By: –
Rtr. Imeth Nenuka
(Blog Team Member 2024-25)
Edited By: –
Rtr. Naduni Premathilaka
(Blog Team Member 2024-25)
