Ice Cream Day

National Ice Cream Day History

National Ice Cream Day is a holiday to celebrate one of Canada's most beloved desserts, ice cream. The holiday dates back to 1984 when then-US President Ronald Reagan declared the third Sunday in July as National Ice Cream Day in the United States. Canada followed suit shortly after, adopting the holiday to recognize the importance of ice cream in Canadian culture.

The day is typically celebrated by indulging in one's favourite ice cream flavours, whether that's enjoying a cone at an ice cream shop or making a batch of homemade ice cream. Many businesses and ice cream shops offer special promotions or discounts on National Ice Cream Day to encourage people to come out and enjoy the cold treat with friends and family.

National Ice Cream Day serves as a reminder of the joy and nostalgia that ice cream can bring. It's a time to celebrate the craftsmanship and creativity of ice cream makers across Canada, and to share stories and memories that have been made over the years while enjoying a cool cone or scoop. National Ice Cream Day is observed annually on July 16th.

Top 10 Facts for 2026 Ice Cream Day in Canada

• Retailers and major dairy chains often organize special promotions, such as discounted cones or loyalty app rewards, to encourage community participation during this mid-summer observance.
• The entire month of July is recognized as National Ice Cream Month, providing a 31-day window for businesses to host socials, offer limited-edition flavours, and highlight artisanal craftsmanship.
• Canada holds the impressive record for the world's largest ice cream sundae, a massive creation weighing over 24 tonnes that was assembled in Edmonton, Alberta, in 1984.
• While vanilla often ranks as a top favourite globally, chocolate frequently stands out as the most popular ice cream flavour among Canadian consumers.
• The tradition of observing an ice cream holiday in Canada was adopted following the 1984 United States presidential proclamation that originally intended to create a one-time celebration for the treat.
• Canadian innovation has significantly shaped the industry, most notably through Thomas Webb, who in 1904 patented the machine that revolutionized the mass production of ice cream cones.
• The country's first ice cream cone is credited to Edward R. (Ted) McFeeters, who crafted it in Toronto in 1908 after being inspired by rolled waffles seen at a world fair.
• Consumer trends in Canada increasingly favour premium and artisanal ice creams, with a growing market demand for locally sourced ingredients and dairy-free, plant-based alternatives.
• Regional specialties remain a staple of Canadian ice cream culture, ranging from Quebec's maple-infused varieties to the wild blueberry flavours celebrated in Atlantic Canada.
• Despite the popularity of the treat, data indicates that ice cream production and consumption in Canada are highly seasonal, typically peaking during the warmer months of summer.

In the News and Trending in Canada for Ice Cream Day

Top things to do in Canada for Ice Cream Day

• Enjoy ice cream with your family and friends.
• Get free or discounted ice cream. Most ice cream shops giveaway free ice cream or offer special discounts on National Ice Cream Day.
• Blend together your favorite ice cream flavors with milk and any additional ingredients, like chocolate syrup or fruit, to make milkshakes. Optionally, add malt powder for a classic malted taste.
• Set up a sundae bar with different flavors of ice cream, a variety of toppings like fruit, nuts, sprinkles, chocolate chips, and different sauces like caramel, chocolate, or strawberry. Let your guests build their own sundaes.