National Coffee Milkshake Day

National Coffee Milkshake Day is celebrated annually on July 26. In 2026, this date falls on a Sunday. This day invites everyone to indulge in the perfect blend of coffee and ice cream, offering a delightful way to beat the summer heat while enjoying a caffeinated dessert. This unofficial American food holiday has become a cherished occasion for coffee lovers and dessert fans alike to enjoy a thick, frosty treat at home or from their favorite diner or coffee shop.

History of National Coffee Milkshake Day

The milkshake has a long history, with the term first appearing in print in 1885. Early milkshakes were alcoholic concoctions made with eggs and whiskey, closer to eggnog than the sweet blended drinks we know today. By the early 1900s, milkshakes had evolved into non-alcoholic beverages flavored with vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry syrups. The invention of the electric blender in 1922 by Stephen Poplawski helped popularize the frothy, creamy milkshakes that became a staple at soda fountains and diners across the United States.

The coffee milkshake developed alongside this evolution. In the 1930s, combining coffee ice cream with soda became a fashionable treat. Before World War II, Delekta’s pharmacy in Warren, Rhode Island, served its own version of a coffee milkshake, adding ice cream to its coffee drinks. Rhode Island has deep ties to coffee-flavored dairy, as coffee milk, made from sweetened coffee syrup mixed with milk, originated among Italian immigrants in the state in the early 20th century and remains its official state drink. By the 1950s, coffee milkshakes had become a firm favorite in diners across the country. National Coffee Milkshake Day grew out of this long-standing affection for the treat, and while its exact origin is not formally documented, it is now widely observed on July 26 each year.

Why is National Coffee Milkshake Day important?

National Coffee Milkshake Day matters because it celebrates a simple yet brilliant culinary creation. The combination of coffee and ice cream delivers both a caffeine boost and a cool, creamy indulgence that is perfect for hot summer days. It is a treat that sits happily between a dessert and a pick-me-up, offering a moment of pure pleasure that is easy to enjoy.

This day also encourages people to connect with local businesses and share a moment of enjoyment with friends and family. Whether you visit a local diner, a coffee shop, or make your own at home, the act of enjoying a coffee milkshake becomes a small celebration of summer pleasures. It reminds us to slow down, treat ourselves, and appreciate the simple joys that bring people together.

• A perfect refreshment: Coffee milkshakes are an ideal way to cool down and get a delicious boost during summer heat.
• Endless customization: You can experiment with different coffee flavors, ice cream types, and toppings like chocolate syrup, whipped cream, or caramel.
• Simple to make at home: With just a few ingredients like cold-brewed coffee, vanilla ice cream, and milk, you can whip up a thick and creamy shake in minutes.
• Supports local shops: Many diners, ice cream parlors, and coffee chains offer special deals or unique creations for the day, making it a great time to support them.
• Brings people together: Sharing milkshakes with friends or family, or hosting a taste-test party, turns the day into a fun social event.

How to Celebrate National Coffee Milkshake Day

One of the best ways to celebrate National Coffee Milkshake Day is to make your own at home. Blend cold-brewed coffee or chilled regular coffee with vanilla ice cream and a splash of milk until smooth. Add chocolate syrup, a drizzle of caramel, or even a shot of espresso for extra flavor. Top with whipped cream and get creative with sprinkles or shaved chocolate. The process is quick, easy, and rewarding.

You can also visit local cafes, ice cream shops, or fast-food chains that offer coffee milkshakes or similar beverages. Many places run special promotions on this day, offering discounts or limited-time flavors. Share your creations on social media using #CoffeeMilkshakeDay to join the celebration online and inspire others to participate. Whether you enjoy a classic version or an adventurous twist, the key is to savor every sip.

• Try a classic recipe: Combine 1 cup cold-brewed coffee, 4 scoops vanilla ice cream, and 1 tablespoon chocolate syrup. Blend and enjoy.
• Explore global variations: Make an Italian espresso shake with a drop of lemon extract, or a Vietnamese coffee shake with coconut ice cream and condensed milk.
• Host a milkshake taste test: Invite friends over and have each person create their own signature coffee milkshake. Vote on the best one.
• Visit Delekta’s: If you are in Rhode Island, stop by the historic pharmacy that helped popularize the coffee milkshake and order their famous “coffee cabinet.”
• Pair with a pastry: Combine your milkshake with a fresh pastry for a delightful afternoon treat.

National Coffee Milkshake Day Dates