A vibrant ice cream soda in a tall glass, with layers of colorful syrups, whipped cream, and a cherry on top, set against a sunny backdrop

National Ice Cream Soda Day celebrates the beloved combination of ice cream and carbonated beverages, creating a frothy, creamy treat that has delighted people for generations. This refreshing drink consists of ice cream scoops floating in flavored carbonated beverages, creating a delicious fusion of textures and tastes.

Quick Facts

  • When is it?: June 20th annually
  • Tagged as: Food Holiday, Summer Celebration
  • What’s the hashtag?: #IceCreamSodaDay
  • When was it founded?: 1874
  • Who founded it?: Robert Green in Philadelphia

History

The ice cream soda was accidentally invented during Philadelphia’s sesquicentennial celebration in 1874. Robert Green, a soda vendor, ran out of ice and decided to use vanilla ice cream instead, creating what would become a beloved American treat.

Timeline

  • 1874: First ice cream soda created in Philadelphia
  • 1875: Spread to Detroit through Fred Sanders
  • 1895: Over 50,000 soda fountains serving ice cream sodas in the US
  • 1910: Official documentation of invention published in Soda Fountain magazine

Dates by Next Five Years

YearDateDay
2024June 20Thursday
2025June 20Friday
2026June 20Sunday
2027June 20Monday
2028June 20Tuesday

How It’s Observed

People celebrate by creating their own ice cream sodas at home or visiting traditional ice cream parlors. Many enjoy experimenting with different flavor combinations and toppings.

Fun Facts About Ice Cream Sodas

  • Originally made with sweet cream instead of ice cream
  • Also known as “floats” because ice cream floats in the soda
  • Coca-Cola with vanilla ice cream is the most popular combination
  • Some soda fountains initially refused to serve them without available seating

Quiz

  1. In which city was the ice cream soda invented?
  2. What was used before ice cream in early versions?
  3. What year was the first ice cream soda created?
    -(Answers: Philadelphia, Sweet Cream, 1874)

FAQs

Q: What’s in an ice cream soda?
A: Carbonated beverage, ice cream, and optional syrups/toppings

Q: Can I make it at home?
A: Yes, simply combine your favorite soda with ice cream

Importance of Ice Cream Soda Day

This celebration preserves the legacy of a beloved American invention while encouraging creativity in making new flavor combinations and bringing people together over a shared love of this refreshing treat.

Related Celebrations

  • National Ice Cream Day
  • National Root Beer Float Day
  • National Vanilla Ice Cream Day
  • National Soda Day