National Ice Cream Day in December

National Ice Cream Day is observed annually on December 13. While many associate frozen treats with the heat of summer, this specific winter observance encourages enthusiasts to enjoy a scoop of their favorite dessert regardless of the freezing temperatures outside. National Ice Cream Day is also celebrated in July.

History of National Ice Cream Day

The history of ice cream itself traverses continents and centuries, long before it became a staple of American culture. Ancient records suggest that the Chinese Tang Dynasty enjoyed a frozen mixture of milk and camphor, while Roman Emperors sent runners to fetch mountain snow to flavor with fruits. The dessert made its way to Europe and eventually the American colonies, where it was a favorite of figures like George Washington and Thomas Jefferson. The invention of the hand-cranked freezer in 1843 by Nancy Johnson revolutionized production, transforming it from a luxury for the elite into a treat accessible to the masses.

The origin of celebrating this day on December 13 is distinct from the government-recognized holiday in July signed by President Ronald Reagan. This winter date emerged largely through internet culture and the retail industry’s desire to boost sales during the colder months. It challenges the notion that ice cream is seasonal, promoting it as a year-round comfort food. The December observance has gained traction as a “winter edition” of the holiday, often highlighting seasonal flavors like peppermint stick, eggnog, and gingerbread that are unavailable during the summer peak.

Why is National Ice Cream Day important?

This day serves as a delightful rebellion against the weather, proving that comfort food knows no season. Eating ice cream in the winter offers a different sensory experience; without the rush to eat it before it melts in the sun, you can savor the texture and flavor notes more slowly. It brings a moment of joy and nostalgia to the darker, colder days of December, often serving as a stress-reliever amidst the chaotic preparations for end-of-year holidays.

Economically, this day provides crucial support to dairy farmers and local creameries during their off-season. While summer guarantees high traffic, winter can be a struggle for scoop shops. Celebrating on this date reminds consumers that these businesses are open and offering unique winter menus. It also highlights the versatility of the dessert, showcasing how it pairs perfectly with warm winter treats like hot chocolate, warm apple pie, or fresh-baked cookies.

• It supports local ice cream shops during their slower winter months.
• It highlights limited-edition holiday flavors like peppermint and eggnog.
• It encourages a slower, melt-free enjoyment of the dessert.
• It serves as a fun, low-stress treat during the holiday rush.
• It brings people together for a cozy, indoor social activity.

How to Celebrate National Ice Cream Day

The best way to observe this day is to embrace the “winter” theme of your bowl. Instead of tropical fruit flavors, look for seasonal options like peppermint bark, pumpkin spice, or frozen hot chocolate. You might visit a local parlor to see what winter specials they are churning; many shops create heavy, rich flavors specifically for December that are too dense for a hot July day. If you are staying in, try pairing a scoop of vanilla bean with a warm dessert, such as a slice of pecan pie or a molten lava cake, creating a perfect hot-cold contrast.

Another fun way to participate is to host a “cozy” ice cream social. Invite friends over for a movie night and set up a sundae bar featuring warm toppings like hot fudge, caramel sauce, and toasted nuts. Since the ice cream won’t melt as fast indoors, you can take your time constructing elaborate sundaes. You can also experiment with making “affogato”—a scoop of gelato or ice cream “drowned” in a shot of hot espresso—which serves as both a dessert and a warm-up drink.

• Visit a local shop to try their seasonal December flavors.
• Make an affogato by pouring hot coffee over vanilla ice cream.
• Host a winter sundae bar with warm hot fudge and caramel.
• Pair a scoop of ice cream with a warm brownie or pie.
• Post a photo of your winter treat on social media.

National Ice Cream Day Dates Table