National Slurpee Day, also known as Free Slurpee Day, is an annual celebration where 7-Eleven stores offer complimentary Slurpee drinks to customers. This frozen carbonated beverage has become an iconic summer treat, bringing joy and brain freezes to millions.
Quick Facts
When is it?: July 11 annually
Tagged as: Free Slurpee Day, National 7-Eleven Day
What’s the hashtag?: #FreeSlurpeeDay #NationalSlurpeeDay
When was it founded?: 2002
Who founded it?: 7-Eleven stores
History of National Slurpee Day
The beloved Slurpee was discovered by accident when Omar Knedlik’s soda fountain broke down at his Dairy Queen store. He stored sodas in the freezer, creating a slushy consistency that customers loved. Initially called ICEE, 7-Eleven licensed the product in 1965 and renamed it “Slurpee” due to the slurping sound made while drinking it. The first National Free Slurpee Day was celebrated in 2002 to mark 7-Eleven’s 75th anniversary.
Timeline
• Late 1950s: Omar Knedlik accidentally creates the frozen drink
• 1965: 7-Eleven makes licensing deal
• 1966: Slurpee officially launches
• 2002: First Free Slurpee Day celebration
• 2024: Special cup design by young artist Nolan
Dates by Next Year
| Year | Month | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2002 | July | 11 | Thursday |
| 2003 | July | 11 | Friday |
| 2004 | July | 11 | Sunday |
| 2005 | July | 11 | Monday |
| 2006 | July | 11 | Tuesday |
| 2007 | July | 11 | Wednesday |
How It’s Observed
Participating 7-Eleven, Speedway, and Stripes stores offer free small Slurpees from 11 AM to 7 PM. Customers can download the 7Rewards app for additional benefits and chances to win free Slurpees for a year.
Fun Facts About Slurpees
• Over 300 flavors have been created since inception
• Approximately 14 million Slurpees are sold monthly
• The name was created by an advertising executive
• The drink was first known as ICEE
• Special edition cups are designed annually
Quiz
- Who invented the Slurpee?
- What was the original name of the drink?
- In which year did Free Slurpee Day begin?
(Answers: 1. Omar Knedlik 2. ICEE 3. 2002)
FAQs
• Can I get multiple free Slurpees?
Only one free small Slurpee per person is allowed.
• Do I need the app?
While not always required, downloading the 7Rewards app provides additional benefits.
• What are the redemption hours?
Typically 11 AM to 7 PM on July 11.
Related Celebrations
• National Ice Cream Day
• National Convenience Store Day
• National Brain Freeze Day
• National Fast Food Day
• National Beverage Day