National Ice Cream Day Deals: The best discounts you can get today and where to find them

National Ice Cream Day has become one of the sweetest food holidays on the calendar, and 2026 is no exception.

Celebrated on the third Sunday of July, the annual event gives customers an opportunity to enjoy free treats, discounted desserts and exclusive rewards from some of the country’s biggest restaurant and ice cream brands.

Originally established by President Ronald Reagan in 1984, National Ice Cream Day continues to be marked every summer by retailers eager to attract customers with one-day promotions.

This year’s lineup features everything from complimentary cones to discounted sundaes and buy-one-get-one offers.

While some promotions are available to everyone, others require customers to be members of restaurant loyalty programs or to place orders through mobile apps.

Among the most popular offers is Dairy Queen, which is celebrating with promotions available through its rewards program. Depending on the location, participating stores are offering discounts on Blizzard Treats and other frozen favorites through the DQ app.

Cold Stone Creamery is also taking part in the celebration by providing exclusive rewards and promotional offers for My Cold Stone Club members.

Customers enrolled in the free loyalty program can access limited-time savings that vary by location.

Several Baskin-Robbins locations are offering special pricing on scoops and frozen beverages, while rewards members can unlock additional offers through the company’s mobile app.

Dippin’ Dots, another National Ice Cream Day regular, is once again handing out free mini cups during a designated two-hour window at participating locations, while supplies last. The annual giveaway has become one of the day’s most anticipated promotions.

Customers visiting Carvel can also find select discounts on cakes, soft serve and sundaes, with certain deals tied to online ordering or rewards membership.

Many regional chains and independent ice cream shops are joining the celebration as well, meaning local businesses may be offering promotions not available nationwide.

Because participation varies by franchise, customers are encouraged to check with their nearest location before visiting.

Loyalty programs unlock many of the biggest savings

One noticeable trend this year is the growing importance of restaurant rewards programs.

Many of the best National Ice Cream Day promotions are available only to customers who have downloaded a company’s mobile app or signed up for its free loyalty program.

Although registration typically takes only a few minutes, doing so before ordering can unlock free menu items, bonus reward points or exclusive coupons.

Some restaurants are also limiting promotions to online or app-based purchases rather than in-store orders.

Consumers planning to take advantage of multiple deals throughout the day may benefit from checking each company’s official website or app beforehand to verify participation and any purchase requirements.

In addition to the major ice cream chains, several fast-food restaurants known for frozen desserts are also participating in National Ice Cream Day.

Chains such as Sonic Drive-In, Burger King, McDonald’s, Wendy’s and Shake Shack have introduced seasonal frozen dessert promotions in recent weeks, with some locations extending special offers to coincide with Sunday’s celebration.

The exact discounts vary depending on the restaurant, but customers may find reduced prices on milkshakes, frozen custard, McFlurries, Frostys and other signature desserts.

With inflation continuing to affect grocery and restaurant prices, promotional events like National Ice Cream Day have become increasingly popular among consumers looking for affordable treats.

Restaurant operators also benefit, using the celebration to introduce new menu items, encourage app downloads and reward loyal customers.

Whether you’re looking for a free cone, a discounted Blizzard or a buy-one-get-one scoop to share with family and friends, today’s promotions provide plenty of opportunities to enjoy one of America’s favorite desserts.

Since many offers are available today only, customers hoping to take advantage of the biggest savings should check participating locations early, review any loyalty program requirements and remember that some giveaways are available only while supplies last.