National Chocolate Milkshake Day

National Chocolate Milkshake Day is celebrated on September 12 each year. It’s a delightfully indulgent little holiday—your excuse to treat yourself to a rich, frothy chocolate milkshake without any guilt.

History of National Chocolate Milkshake Day

Though the exact origin of National Chocolate Milkshake Day is unclear, with no known founder, its roots trace back to the late 19th century when the term “milkshake” first appeared in print around 1885—originally referring to a boozy, egg‑based tonic rather than an ice‑cream treat.

By the early 1900s, milkshakes evolved into sweeter, non‑alcoholic beverages made with flavored syrups and eventually with ice cream. A major milestone came in 1922 when a Walgreens in Chicago added vanilla ice cream to a malted milk recipe, creating what’s considered one of the first modern milkshakes—and chocolate flavors quickly became a favorite.

The specific observance of National Chocolate Milkshake Day was already being mentioned as early as 1996, when a Wisconsin newspaper listed September 12 as “National Chocolate Milkshake Day”—though it’s uncertain who initiated it.

Why is National Chocolate Milkshake Day important?

I think what makes this day so fun is how it honors simple, delightful pleasures. In a world that often feels rushed, celebrating a chocolate milkshake reminds us to slow down, lean into sweetness, and connect with that timeless joy of a cool treat on a warm day.

It’s also a nod to nostalgia. Milkshakes carry stories: classic diner counters, clinking glasses, and childhood trips to the soda fountain. Observing this day is like flipping through a photo album—but with whipped cream and a straw in hand.

Here are a few sweet reasons this day matters:

• it’s an invitation to celebrate simple, joyful indulgence
• it connects us to cozy, nostalgic moments
• it honors how a food becomes a cultural icon
• it brings people together over something universally delicious
• it encourages creativity—mixing, topping, and tweaking flavors

How to Observe National Chocolate Milkshake Day

Celebrating this day is easy—and tasty. Swing by your favorite diner or ice cream shop and order a chocolate milkshake piled high with whipped cream, chocolate drizzle, or even a cherry on top. At home? Blend ice cream, milk, and chocolate syrup, then go wild with toppings like crushed cookies, marshmallows, or a shot of espresso for a grown‑up twist.

For something social, host a mini milkshake party: offer plain and let everyone custom-build theirs with add-ons like malt powder, peanut butter, fruit, or flavored sprinkles. It’s fun, cozy, and totally Instagram-worthy—perfect for sharing laughter and treats with loved ones.

Here are easy, joyful ways to celebrate:

• treat yourself to a classic chocolate milkshake—made just the way you like it
• make one at home and experiment with toppings or flavor twists
• pair your shake with a nostalgic tune or movie for extra warmth
• host a DIY milkshake bar and let everyone create their dream shake
• share a snapshot of your shake with someone or online to spread the smile

Classic Recipe Chocolate Milkshake

Ingredients:

• 2 cups vanilla ice cream
• 1 cup milk (whole milk works best)
• 1/4 cup chocolate syrup
• Whipped cream (optional, for topping)

Instructions:

1. Place the ice cream, milk, and chocolate syrup into a blender.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy.
3. Pour into a tall glass.
4. Top with whipped cream and an extra drizzle of chocolate syrup if you like.

Enjoy immediately with a straw or spoon!

National Chocolate Milkshake Day Dates Table