There are few desserts as universally loved as ice cream. Whether you’re loyal to a classic scoop of vanilla, can’t resist a loaded sundae, or will never say no to a cone on a hot summer day, ice cream is one of those treats that never goes out of style. And with temperatures soaring this summer, there couldn’t be a better excuse to grab your favorite frozen dessert.
Luckily, National Ice Cream Day is almost here. This year, the sweet holiday falls on Sunday, July 19, and, as always, some of the most popular ice cream chains are celebrating with freebies, discounts, and limited-time offers.
National Ice Cream Day has been an annual tradition for more than 40 years. In 1984, President Ronald Regan proclaimed July as National Ice Cream Month. He designated the third Sunday in July as National Ice Cream Day, recognizing ice cream as a beloved American treat and encouraging people across the country to celebrate. Since then, it has become a yearly event that many of the nation’s biggest dessert chains use to thank customers by offering exclusive promotions, limited-time menu items, and, of course, plenty of free ice cream.
So, if you’re looking for an excuse to treat yourself without spending a fortune, consider this your sign. Whether you’re planning to stop by your favorite local scoop shop or visit a few of the country’s biggest chains, here’s a roundup of the best National Ice Cream Day 2026 deals worth checking out.
- Dairy Queen
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Dairy Queen is making National Ice Cream Day extra sweet this year. From July 13 through July 19, Dairy Queen Rewards members can score a free Dilly Bar with any purchase of $1 or more made through the DQ app. If you’re not already a rewards member, signing up is free, making this one of the easiest deals to take advantage of!
- Baskin-Robbins
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Baskin-Robbins is also joining in on the fun. Reward members can receive $5 off any purchase of $20 or more from July 19 through July 25. The savings continue the following weekend, with members also receiving a buy one, get one free scoop offer on July 26.
- Dippin’ Dots
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The self-proclaimed “Ice Cream of the Future” is bringing back one of its most popular annual traditions. Participating Dippin’ Dots locations will be handing out free mini cups during a designated giveaway window on National Ice Cream Day. Hours vary by location, so it’s worth checking with your nearest store before heading out.
- Häagen-Dazs
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If you’re looking for an excuse to treat yourself to a premium sundae, Häagen-Dazs is introducing BOGO sundaes. For the remaining Sundays in July (July 19 and July 26), new and existing Häagen-Dazs shop rewards members can enjoy exclusive Buy One, Get One offers on all three Sundae Series desserts and get a second one free.
- Marble Slab Creamery
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If you’ve been craving a sweet treat, Marble Slab Creamery is giving rewards members the perfect excuse to stop by. On July 19, Marble Slab Creamery members can score a free ice cream, making it the ideal opportunity to try one of the chain’s signature hand-mixed creations on a hot summer day.
- Friendly’s
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Nothing beats free ice cream, and Friendly’s is delivering exactly that. In honor of National Ice Cream Day, as well as Friendly’s 90th anniversary, from July 18 to July 20, those who join the Friendly’s Fan Club Rewards program will receive a free cone or dish of Friendly’s signature ice cream. “We’re turning 90 the only way we know how — with sweet surprises, unbeatable value, and ice cream for everyone,” Dawn Petite, president of Friendly’s Restaurants, said in a news release. “This celebration is our way of saying thank you to generations of families who’ve made Friendly’s part of their story.”
- Menchie’s Frozen Yogurt
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Calling all Descendants fans! To celebrate the premiere of Descendants: Wicked Wonderland, Menchie’s is giving the first 50 guests at participating locations 5 ounces of free frozen yogurt on July 17 at 3 p.m. Just keep in mind that the freebie only covers the first 5 ounces — if you go over (I know I would), you’ll have to pay for it.
- Petco
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It seems like National Ice Cream Day isn’t just for humans; your furry best friend can celebrate too. On July 19, Petco Vital Care Rewards members can treat their pups to a free Ben & Jerry’s dog-friendly Pup Cup at participating Petco locations. Just ask to redeem the offer at checkout, and your four-legged companion can join in on the frozen fun. If you’re not already a rewards member, signing up is free, making it an easy way to spoil your dog with a sweet treat.
- Handel’s Ice Cream
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Handel’s Ice Cream is giving customers more than just a scoop this National Ice Cream Day. On July 19, the first 250 guests at each participating location can receive a free limited-edition blue baseball cap with any ice cream purchase. If you’re planning to stop by, make sure to get there early, as supplies are limited!
- Del Taco
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Who says you have to head to an ice cream shop to celebrate National Ice Cream Day? Del Taco is getting in on the fun by offering its rewards program members a buy one, get one free regular shake deal from July 17 through July 19. Whether you’re splitting the deal with a friend or keeping both shakes for yourself, it’s a sweet way to cool off all weekend long. If you’re not already a rewards member, you’ll need to sign up through the Del Yeah Rewards Program to redeem the offer.
- 16 Handles
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16 Handles is ending the list on a sweet note. To celebrate National Ice Cream Day, the frozen yogurt chain is giving app users a free frozen yogurt on Sunday, July 19. All you have to do is download the 16 Handles app, redeem the offer, and customize your cup with all your favorite toppings.