National Free Ice Cream Day

A group of diverse people, wearing colorful summer outfits, enjoying free ice cream in a sunny park surrounded by lush green trees.. — National free ice cream day illustration

Are you ready to scream for ice cream? Because today is National Free Ice Cream Day! Prepare yourself for a sweet and creamy celebration that will have you licking your lips in anticipation. Get ready to indulge in frosty scoops of deliciousness and treat yourself to a day filled with frozen treats. In this article, we'll explore the internet history behind this delightful day and share some fun facts that'll leave you craving for more.

When is Free Ice Cream Day?

It's national free ice cream day on the 16th July.

The Internet History of National Free Ice Cream Day

Believe it or not, National Free Ice Cream Day has a fascinating internet history that dates back to the early days of the world wide web. It all started when a group of ice cream enthusiasts decided that the world needed a day dedicated solely to this frozen delight. They took to the depths of the internet, forming online communities and spreading the word like melted ice cream on a hot summer day.

As the years went by, the online chatter about National Free Ice Cream Day started to gain momentum. Memes, gifs, and viral videos featuring people joyfully devouring ice cream in epic proportions flooded social media platforms. Ice cream fanatics from all corners of the internet rejoiced, sharing their favorite flavors, toppings, and unique ways to enjoy this frozen treat.

But it wasn't until July 16, 2017, when the internet exploded with mentions of National Free Ice Cream Day. Twenty-eight times this sweet celebration was mentioned online, making it the most talked-about ice cream-related day in internet history. It was a day filled with virtual ice cream trucks, virtual scoops, and virtual brain freezes.

Did You Know?

Did you know that the world's largest ice cream cone was created in Italy? It stood at a staggering 9 feet tall, and it took a team of ice cream enthusiasts to devour it before it melted. Talk about a colossal brain freeze!

History behind the term 'Free Ice Cream'

1904

The Birth of the Ice Cream Cone

In 1904, during the St. Louis World's Fair, an ice cream vendor ran out of dishes to serve his delicious frozen treat. In a moment of creativity, he approached a nearby waffle vendor and rolled the ice cream into a cone-shaped waffle. The ice cream cone was born!

1920

The Rise of Ice Cream Trucks

By the 1920s, ice cream trucks became immensely popular, bringing frozen treats directly to neighborhoods. These trucks served as mobile ice cream parlors and would often stop in residential areas, parks, and various public events, spreading joy and delight among children and adults alike.

1939

The First Free Ice Cream Promotion

In 1939, during the New York World's Fair, an ice cream manufacturer named Tom Carvel experienced a malfunctioning truck freezer. Afraid that the ice cream would melt, Carvel gave away his entire supply, starting the first-ever free ice cream promotion. The unexpected act of generosity brought immense publicity and signaled the beginning of a new marketing strategy in the ice cream industry.

1984

Ben & Jerry's Annual Free Cone Day

In 1984, Ben & Jerry's, an iconic ice cream company known for its creative flavors, launched an annual tradition called Free Cone Day. This generous event allowed customers to visit any Ben & Jerry's scoop shop and enjoy a free cone of their choice. Free Cone Day became a popular phenomenon, drawing large crowds and creating a sense of excitement among ice cream enthusiasts every year.

2020

Pivoting to Free Ice Cream Delivery

With the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, many businesses had to adapt to changing circumstances. Ice cream shops around the world started offering free ice cream delivery services to bring smiles to people's faces while they practiced social distancing. This innovative approach allowed ice cream lovers to enjoy their favorite treats without leaving the safety of their homes.

Did you know?

Did you know that the world's largest ice cream cone was created in Italy? It stood at a staggering 9 feet tall, and it took a team of ice cream enthusiasts to devour it before it melted.