Celebrate National Ice Cream Soda Day on June 20th with a delightful, foamy ice cream soda!

The origins of this delightful concoction have sparked several claims to its invention. One such assertion was made by Mr. Robert McCay Green. He purportedly crafted the beverage in 1874 in Philadelphia when he faced an ice shortage for his shaved ice treats. Substituting ice cream turned out to be a stroke of genius, creating a hit drink. Green even designated in his will that his gravestone should bear the inscription, "Here lies the originator of the ice cream soda.".

History of Ice Cream Soda

The ice cream soda is believed to have been invented in the late 19th century. One popular origin story dates back to 1874 in Philadelphia, where Robert M. Green, a soda fountain operator, is credited with creating the first ice cream soda. As the story goes, Green was serving a traditional cream soda (which was originally made by mixing flavored syrup, carbonated water, and cream). When he ran out of cream, he substituted it with vanilla ice cream, and the result became an instant hit.

However, there are other claims to the creation of the ice cream soda, including from Fred Sanders of Detroit, who is said to have popularized it around the same time. Regardless of who invented it, the ice cream soda quickly became a beloved treat across America.

What is an Ice Cream Soda?

An ice cream soda, also known as a float, typically consists of a scoop or two of ice cream added to a glass of flavored soda or carbonated water mixed with syrup. The ice cream floats on top, creating a foamy, creamy texture as it melts into the drink. Some popular variations include:

• Classic Ice Cream Soda: Carbonated water with flavored syrup, topped with vanilla ice cream.
• Root Beer Float: Root beer paired with vanilla ice cream. This is one of the most famous and widely loved versions.
• Coke Float: Coca-Cola or other cola soft drinks served with vanilla ice cream.
• Orange Creamsicle Float: Orange soda with vanilla ice cream, mimicking the taste of a creamsicle.
• Chocolate Ice Cream Soda: Chocolate syrup mixed with soda water, topped with chocolate or vanilla ice cream.

How to Celebrate National Ice Cream Soda Day

There are several ways to celebrate National Ice Cream Soda Day, whether at home, in a diner, or at an ice cream parlor:

1. Make Your Own Ice Cream Soda: Get creative in your kitchen by making your own version of this delicious treat. You can mix and match various flavors of soda and ice cream, or stick to the classics like root beer floats and cola floats.

2. Visit a Soda Fountain or Ice Cream Shop: Many old-fashioned diners and soda fountains still serve traditional ice cream sodas. Take a trip to one of these nostalgic spots to experience the classic soda fountain vibe.

3. Host a Float Party: Invite friends and family over to enjoy ice cream sodas together. Set up a DIY float bar with different types of sodas, ice cream flavors, and toppings like whipped cream, cherries, and chocolate sprinkles.

4. Experiment with Toppings: Enhance your ice cream soda by adding toppings like caramel drizzle, chocolate syrup, sprinkles, or crushed cookies.

5. Social Media Celebrations: Share your ice cream soda creations or favorite memories on social media using the hashtag #IceCreamSodaDay to connect with others celebrating the day.

Fun Facts about Ice Cream Sodas

• Cultural Icon: Ice cream sodas were a staple of American soda fountains in the early 20th century. These establishments were gathering places where people enjoyed refreshing drinks and socialized.
• Prohibition Era: During Prohibition, when alcohol was banned, soda fountains became even more popular, as they offered non-alcoholic beverages like ice cream sodas for socializing.
• Root Beer Float Day: While National Ice Cream Soda Day celebrates all types of floats, Root Beer Float Day has its own observance on August 6th, recognizing one of the most iconic versions of the ice cream soda.

Variations of Ice Cream Sodas

• Boston Cooler: A Detroit variation made with Vernors ginger ale and vanilla ice cream.
• Black Cow: In some regions, this refers to a root beer float with vanilla ice cream, while in others, it’s made with chocolate ice cream.
• Purple Cow: A float made with grape soda and vanilla ice cream.
• Brown Cow: A version made with cola and vanilla ice cream (sometimes chocolate ice cream is used).

Conclusion

National Ice Cream Soda Day is a sweet reminder of a classic American treat that has delighted people for generations. Whether enjoyed in its original form or with a modern twist, ice cream sodas are a perfect way to cool down on a hot summer day. On June 20th, take the time to indulge in this nostalgic beverage and celebrate its creamy, fizzy goodness!