It's not like I need an excuse to eat ice cream, but thanks to President Ronald Reagan, there's one day out of the year I can shovel a spoon into my favorite dessert and be guilt-free.

The History of National Ice Cream Day

In 1984, Ronald Reagan issued a proclamation designating the third Sunday of July as a day to celebrate this tasty dairy product. So, happy 40th anniversary of this wonderful day.

40 years of honoring ice cream indulgence with its own day is great, but Americans have been enjoying this treat for just under 300 years. Ice cream was first mentioned in 1744, and then picked up in popularity following the American Revolution.

You see, even way back then folks were celebrating our independence with ice cream...funnel cakes would come later.

Quick Historical Fun Fact

Only ten recipes written in Thomas Jefferson's handwriting survive to this day. One of those is his ice cream recipe.

DQ Texas Celebrates the Day

National Ice Cream Day may be turning 40, but a DQ staple will soon be celebrating its 70 birthday.

In 1955, the delicious chocolate-dipped Dilly Bar was created, and it has been on the DQ (Dairy Queen) menu ever since. To recognize National Ice Cream Day, DQ Texas is offering customers this free treat on July 21.

DQ Texas App members can get a free Dilly Bar, made with world-famous DQ vanilla soft serve encased in a delicious coating, with a DQ Texas App purchase. So, order up something like a DQ Dude, then add on a free Dilly Bar.

Wendy's is also offering a free treat to mark the day.  You can get a free small frosty when you make a purchase of at least $5.

11 of the Most Bizarre Historical Markers in Texas

There are over 16,000 historical markers and landmarks in Texas, here are 11 of the most bizarre and unusual

Gallery Credit: Danny Merrell

 

 

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