Ice cream, the sweet treat that brings joy to people of all ages, has a special day dedicated to its celebration. But have you ever wondered who declared ice cream day? In this article, we’ll delve into the history of ice cream day, its origins, and the people behind its declaration.
A Brief History of Ice Cream
Before we dive into the story of who declared ice cream day, let’s take a brief look at the history of ice cream. Ice cream has been a beloved treat for centuries, with its origins dating back to ancient civilizations. The ancient Greeks and Romans are known to have enjoyed a frozen dessert made from snow and sweetened with honey.
However, the modern version of ice cream as we know it today originated in Italy in the 16th century. The Medici family commissioned a chef to create a frozen dessert, which resulted in the creation of the first ice cream. The dessert quickly gained popularity throughout Europe and eventually made its way to the United States.
The Origins of Ice Cream Day
So, who declared ice cream day? The answer lies in the United States, where ice cream became a popular treat in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. In 1984, President Ronald Reagan declared July 15th as National Ice Cream Day. However, this was not the first time ice cream day was celebrated.
In 1983, Senator Walter Dee Huddleston of Kentucky introduced a resolution to declare July 15th as National Ice Cream Day. The resolution was passed, and July 15th was officially declared as National Ice Cream Day. However, it was President Reagan’s declaration in 1984 that made the day a national celebration.
The Role of the International Dairy Foods Association
The International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA) played a significant role in the declaration of National Ice Cream Day. The IDFA is a trade association that represents the dairy industry, and they were instrumental in promoting the idea of a national ice cream day.
In the early 1980s, the IDFA launched a campaign to promote ice cream and increase its sales. As part of this campaign, they approached Senator Huddleston with the idea of declaring a national ice cream day. The IDFA provided support and resources to help promote the day, and their efforts paid off when President Reagan declared July 15th as National Ice Cream Day.
Celebrating National Ice Cream Day
National Ice Cream Day is celebrated on the third Sunday of July every year. The day is marked by ice cream shops and parlors across the country offering discounts, promotions, and special deals. Many ice cream shops also offer free ice cream cones or sundaes to customers on this day.
In addition to the celebrations at ice cream shops, National Ice Cream Day is also marked by events and festivals across the country. Many cities and towns host ice cream festivals, which feature live music, games, and of course, plenty of ice cream.
Fun Facts About National Ice Cream Day
Here are a few fun facts about National Ice Cream Day:
- The average American consumes around 23 pounds of ice cream per year.
- The most popular ice cream flavors in the United States are vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry.
- The world’s largest ice cream sundae was made in 2018 and weighed over 5,000 pounds.
The Impact of National Ice Cream Day
National Ice Cream Day has had a significant impact on the ice cream industry. The day has helped to increase sales and promote the industry as a whole. According to the IDFA, National Ice Cream Day has helped to increase ice cream sales by around 10% in the days leading up to the celebration.
In addition to the economic impact, National Ice Cream Day has also helped to bring people together. The day is celebrated by people of all ages, and it provides an opportunity for families and friends to come together and enjoy a sweet treat.
The Future of National Ice Cream Day
As the popularity of ice cream continues to grow, it’s likely that National Ice Cream Day will become an even bigger celebration in the future. The IDFA and other organizations are already planning for future celebrations, which will likely include even more events, promotions, and special deals.
In conclusion, National Ice Cream Day is a celebration that was declared by President Ronald Reagan in 1984. However, the origins of the day date back to the early 1980s, when Senator Walter Dee Huddleston introduced a resolution to declare July 15th as National Ice Cream Day. The International Dairy Foods Association played a significant role in promoting the idea of a national ice cream day, and their efforts paid off when President Reagan declared July 15th as National Ice Cream Day.
Today, National Ice Cream Day is celebrated on the third Sunday of July every year, and it’s marked by events, festivals, and promotions across the country. The day has had a significant impact on the ice cream industry, and it continues to bring people together to enjoy a sweet treat.
| Year | Event |
|---|---|
| 1983 | Senator Walter Dee Huddleston introduces a resolution to declare July 15th as National Ice Cream Day. |
| 1984 | President Ronald Reagan declares July 15th as National Ice Cream Day. |
- The average American consumes around 23 pounds of ice cream per year.
- The most popular ice cream flavors in the United States are vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry.
Who declared National Ice Cream Day?
National Ice Cream Day was declared by President Ronald Reagan in 1984. He was the 40th President of the United States and served from 1981 to 1989. President Reagan was a fan of ice cream and wanted to recognize the treat’s popularity in the United States.
President Reagan’s proclamation was part of a joint resolution passed by Congress, which designated July as National Ice Cream Month. The resolution also declared the third Sunday of July as National Ice Cream Day. Since then, National Ice Cream Day has been celebrated on the third Sunday of July every year.
Why did President Reagan declare National Ice Cream Day?
President Reagan declared National Ice Cream Day to recognize the importance of the ice cream industry in the United States. At the time, the ice cream industry was a significant contributor to the country’s economy, with millions of people employed in the production, distribution, and sale of ice cream.
By declaring National Ice Cream Day, President Reagan aimed to promote the industry and encourage Americans to enjoy their favorite frozen treat. He also wanted to acknowledge the joy and happiness that ice cream brings to people of all ages.
How is National Ice Cream Day celebrated?
National Ice Cream Day is celebrated in various ways across the United States. Many ice cream shops and parlors offer free or discounted ice cream cones, sundaes, and other treats to customers. Some stores also host special events, such as ice cream-making demonstrations, flavor tastings, and contests.
In addition to these events, people celebrate National Ice Cream Day by enjoying their favorite ice cream flavors at home or with friends and family. Some people also share their love for ice cream on social media using hashtags and posting photos of their favorite ice cream treats.
What is the most popular ice cream flavor in the United States?
The most popular ice cream flavor in the United States is vanilla. According to the International Dairy Foods Association, vanilla has been the top-selling ice cream flavor in the country for many years. Other popular flavors include chocolate, strawberry, and cookies and cream.
The popularity of vanilla ice cream can be attributed to its versatility and ability to pair well with a variety of toppings, such as hot fudge, caramel, and whipped cream. Vanilla is also a popular choice for ice cream sundaes, milkshakes, and other frozen treats.
How has the ice cream industry changed since National Ice Cream Day was declared?
The ice cream industry has undergone significant changes since National Ice Cream Day was declared in 1984. One major trend is the rise of premium and artisanal ice cream brands, which offer unique and creative flavors made with high-quality ingredients.
Another change is the increasing popularity of non-dairy ice cream options, such as vegan and gluten-free ice cream made from plant-based ingredients like coconut milk, almond milk, and cashew cream. These options cater to the growing demand for healthier and more sustainable ice cream choices.
Can I celebrate National Ice Cream Day if I’m lactose intolerant or have dietary restrictions?
Yes, you can still celebrate National Ice Cream Day even if you’re lactose intolerant or have dietary restrictions. Many ice cream shops and brands now offer non-dairy and vegan ice cream options made from plant-based ingredients like coconut milk, almond milk, and cashew cream.
You can also make your own ice cream at home using lactose-free or non-dairy milk alternatives and natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup. This way, you can enjoy your favorite frozen treat while adhering to your dietary needs and preferences.
Is National Ice Cream Day celebrated outside the United States?
While National Ice Cream Day is a US-specific holiday, many countries around the world celebrate their own ice cream-themed holidays and events. For example, Italy celebrates Gelato Day in March, while Japan has a National Ice Cream Day in September.
In addition, many international ice cream chains and brands participate in National Ice Cream Day by offering special promotions and discounts to customers worldwide. So, even if you’re not in the United States, you can still join in the celebration and enjoy your favorite ice cream treats.