Every year, the third Sunday in July marks a delightful celebration across the United States: National Ice Cream Day. This special day, falling on July 20, 2025, invites people of all ages to enjoy one of the most beloved treats of summer—ice cream. From classic vanilla cones to inventive new flavors, ice cream holds a cherished place in American culture and offers a perfect way to beat the summer heat.
In communities like Apex, NC, National Ice Cream Day is more than just an excuse to indulge. It is a time to come together, celebrate local businesses, and honor a tradition that has brought joy for generations. Whether enjoyed at home or at one of the town’s popular ice cream shops, this day highlights the simple pleasures that unite people through shared experiences and sweet moments.
A Celebration Born From Presidential Proclamation
The roots of National Ice Cream Day stretch back to 1984, when President Ronald Reagan recognized the deep affection Americans have for ice cream. He designated July as National Ice Cream Month and set aside the third Sunday in July as a day to celebrate this beloved treat. His proclamation encouraged people across the nation to mark the occasion with “appropriate ceremonies and activities,” and the tradition has flourished ever since.
Why do we celebrate? Ice cream has long been woven into the fabric of American life. From the earliest ice cream parlors opened by Quaker colonists to the invention of the hand-cranked ice cream freezer in the 1840s, this dessert has been a symbol of innovation and togetherness. Today, National Ice Cream Day is an opportunity to honor that legacy, enjoy new and classic flavors, and support the local shops that make our communities sweeter.
Fun Facts That Make Ice Cream Even Cooler
As I prepare for July 20th, I love sharing some fascinating tidbits about ice cream and its special day. Did you know that the average American eats about 19 pounds of ice cream each year? Or that nine percent of all milk produced in the United States is used to make ice cream? Vanilla remains the most popular flavor nationwide, but creative combinations continue to delight adventurous palates.
There’s even more to celebrate. Thomas Jefferson, one of the nation’s founding fathers, was such a fan of ice cream that his handwritten recipe for vanilla ice cream is preserved in the Library of Congress. The world’s largest ice cream sundae weighed over 20,000 pounds, and Long Beach, California, holds the record for the most ice cream consumed per city. These fun facts remind me that National Ice Cream Day is a day with a rich history and plenty of room for new traditions.
Creative Ways to Celebrate at Home
While visiting local shops is a highlight, celebrating National Ice Cream Day at home can be just as delightful. I often gather my family in the kitchen to create homemade ice cream, turning the process into a hands-on activity that blends science and sweetness. With just a few ingredients—milk, sugar, vanilla, and a pinch of salt—we can shake up a batch of classic vanilla or experiment with flavors like strawberry basil or blueberry lemon.
For those looking to try something new, blending frozen bananas with chocolate chips makes a nutritious and creamy treat. Setting up a sundae bar with an array of toppings lets everyone personalize their dessert. Even without an ice cream maker, freezing mixtures in shallow pans or using the “ice cream in a bag” method brings out the fun. The key is to get creative and enjoy the process together, making memories as sweet as the treats themselves.
Discovering the Best Ice Cream Shops in Apex
No celebration of National Ice Cream Day in Apex, NC, would be complete without a visit to some of the area’s favorite ice cream shops. Cold Stone Creamery stands out for its hand-crafted creations, mixed to order on a frozen granite stone. With a wide variety of flavors and mix-ins, it’s a place where I can always find something new to try. Their specialty cakes and ice cream cupcakes add an extra layer of festivity to any occasion.
Bruster’s Real Ice Cream is another local favorite, known for its daily-made, small-batch ice cream. With over 150 flavors in rotation, there’s always something for everyone, from classic chocolate to inventive seasonal offerings. The shop’s commitment to freshness and quality has made it a staple in the community.
These local businesses are at the heart of Apex, NC’s celebration, providing a gathering place for friends and families on National Ice Cream Day.
The Economic and Cultural Scoop
Beyond the joy of a cold treat, National Ice Cream Day also highlights the economic and cultural impact of the ice cream industry. Most ice cream companies in the United States are family-owned and have been serving their communities for decades. The industry supports thousands of jobs and contributes billions to the national economy, making every scoop a small part of a much bigger story.
In Apex, NC, supporting local ice cream shops on July 20, 2025, means more than satisfying a craving. It’s a way to invest in the community, celebrate entrepreneurship, and keep cherished traditions alive. Whether I’m enjoying a sundae at a bustling shop or making ice cream at home with loved ones, I know I’m participating in a celebration that brings people together across generations.
Looking Forward to a Sweet Summer Tradition
As National Ice Cream Day approaches, I find myself filled with anticipation and gratitude. The day is a reminder that even in the heat of summer, there are simple joys to be found and shared. Whether you’re a fan of classic vanilla, bold new flavors, or the thrill of creating your own masterpiece at home, there’s a place for you in this celebration.
So, on July 20, 2025, I’ll be raising my cone high in Apex, NC, honoring the history, creativity, and community spirit that make National Ice Cream Day so special. Here’s to many more years of scoops, smiles, and sweet memories for all.
Sources: awarenessdays.com, nationaldaycalendar.com, nationaltoday.com, en.wikipedia.org, idfa.org
Header Image Source: pexels.com
