The anticipation that builds as summer reaches its peak is something I look forward to every year. There’s a special day that always brings a smile to my face and a chill to my taste buds: National Ice Cream Day. This year, it falls on the third Sunday in July, which is July 20, 2025. In Oregon City, OR, this day is more than just a mark on the calendar—it’s a celebration of community, creativity, and the simple pleasure of a frozen treat.
I find that National Ice Cream Day is the perfect excuse to gather friends and family, reminisce about favorite flavors, and try something new. Whether I’m making homemade ice cream with loved ones or visiting a local shop, the day always feels like a mini holiday. The anticipation, the laughter, and the inevitable brain freeze all make for memories that last long after the last scoop is gone.
The Origins of a Sweet Tradition
National Ice Cream Day has a history as rich as the dessert itself. In 1984, President Ronald Reagan recognized the love Americans have for ice cream by proclaiming July as National Ice Cream Month and designating the third Sunday in July as National Ice Cream Day. He encouraged everyone to celebrate with “appropriate ceremonies and activities,” a tradition that has continued to grow ever since.
The holiday was established not just to honor a favorite treat, but to recognize the joy and connection it brings. Ice cream has long been a symbol of celebration in the United States, enjoyed at birthdays, holidays, and family gatherings. Today, the tradition continues as people across the country take time on July 20th to savor their favorite flavors and create new memories.
Fun Facts That Make the Day Even Sweeter
I love sharing quirky facts about National Ice Cream Day—they make every scoop a little more interesting. Did you know that the average American eats nearly 48 pints of ice cream each year? Or that it takes about 50 licks to finish a single scoop? Vanilla remains the most popular flavor, accounting for nearly a third of all ice cream sales, while chocolate comes in a close second.
The history of ice cream stretches back centuries. The ancient Persians enjoyed chilled desserts with fruit and honey, and legends suggest that Marco Polo introduced early recipes from China to Europe. In the United States, ice cream gained popularity after the American Revolution, and even presidents such as Thomas Jefferson and George Washington were known fans. Jefferson wrote down his recipe for vanilla ice cream, and Washington reportedly spent hundreds of dollars on ice cream in a single summer.
Making National Ice Cream Day Special at Home
One of my favorite ways to celebrate National Ice Cream Day is by making ice cream at home. It’s a fun, hands-on activity that’s perfect for families or anyone looking to try something new. With just a few simple ingredients—milk, cream, sugar, and your favorite flavorings—you can create a delicious batch in your kitchen. For those without an ice cream maker, the classic “ice cream in a bag” method is a great alternative. All you need is ice, salt, a couple of zip-top bags, and a little elbow grease to shake up a creamy treat.
When it comes to flavors, I enjoy experimenting. Classic vanilla and chocolate are always a hit, but adding fresh fruit, cookie pieces, or a swirl of caramel can elevate the experience to the next level. For a healthier option, blending frozen bananas with a splash of milk creates a creamy, dairy-free dessert. Sharing homemade ice cream with friends and neighbors is a wonderful way to spread the joy of National Ice Cream Day.
Local Flavors and Community Favorites in Oregon City, OR
Living in Oregon City, OR, I’m lucky to have a variety of local ice cream shops to visit on National Ice Cream Day. Each shop has its unique offerings, ranging from classic cones to inventive gelato and frozen yogurt. Coffee Rush Cafe is a local favorite, known for its creamy scoops and friendly atmosphere. Mike’s Drive-In brings a nostalgic vibe with its classic sundaes and shakes, perfect for a summer afternoon. Oh My Gelati offers a twist with Italian ice and frozen custard combinations, creating a refreshing and unique experience. For those who love variety, Menchie’s Frozen Yogurt offers a wide selection of toppings, allowing you to customize your dessert.
These shops are more than places to grab a treat—they’re gathering spots where friends meet, families celebrate, and memories are made. I always look forward to seeing what special flavors or promotions they might offer on July 20th.
Creating New Traditions and Lasting Memories
Beyond the ice cream itself, what makes National Ice Cream Day so special to me is the sense of connection it fosters. Whether I’m sharing a homemade sundae with family, visiting a local shop with friends, or simply enjoying a quiet moment with a cone, the day is a reminder to savor the sweet moments in life. Ice cream has a way of bringing people together, sparking conversations, and creating traditions that last for generations.
In Oregon City, OR, the celebration extends beyond just eating ice cream. Many people use the day as an opportunity to give back, delivering treats to neighbors or organizing small gatherings to support local businesses. It’s a day filled with laughter, creativity, and a shared appreciation for one of life’s simplest pleasures.
Looking Forward to the Next Scoop
As July 20, 2025, approaches, I find myself excited for another chance to celebrate National Ice Cream Day. Whether I’m trying a new flavor, perfecting my homemade recipe, or exploring the latest offerings from local shops, I know the day will be filled with joy and a sense of community spirit. The tradition may have started with a presidential proclamation, but it lives on in the smiles and stories shared over every scoop.
No matter how you choose to celebrate, I hope National Ice Cream Day in Oregon City, OR, brings you plenty of sweet memories, laughter, and maybe a little brain freeze. Here’s to making the most of the third Sunday in July—one delicious bite at a time.
Sources: calendarlabs.com, awarenessdays.com, nationaldaycalendar.com, nationaltoday.com
Header Image Source: pexels.com
