Looking for the best National Ice Cream Day Nassau County deals? You’re in the right place. National Ice Cream Day returns on Sunday, July 19, 2026, bringing free frozen treats, rewards offers, grocery-store giveaways and plenty of reasons to visit a favorite local ice cream shop.
Whether you’re hoping to score a free Dilly Bar, pick up a container of ice cream for the family or discover a new Nassau County dessert destination, I’ve rounded up the offers and local favorites worth knowing about.
Please check the official company website, rewards app, or individual location before leaving home. Participation, eligibility requirements, inventory and promotional terms may vary by location. Some offers listed below have been officially confirmed for 2026, while others have been publicly reported and should be verified directly before making a special trip.
Looking for more ways to enjoy the season? Visit my Nassau County Summer Events guide for festivals, concerts, fairs and family activities happening across Long Island.
National Ice Cream Day Nassau County Deals for 2026
National Ice Cream Day has been celebrated since 1984, when President Ronald Reagan proclaimed July as National Ice Cream Month and recognized the third Sunday in July as National Ice Cream Day.
Today, ice cream shops, restaurants and grocery stores celebrate with limited-time flavors, rewards promotions, giveaways and other frozen deals. Here are the 2026 offers Nassau County residents should know about.
Dairy Queen: Free Dilly Bar
Dairy Queen is celebrating National Ice Cream Day all week long. From July 13 through July 19, 2026, DQ Rewards members can receive a free Dilly Bar with a digital order of $1 or more.
The offer is limited to one per rewards member and is available through the DQ app or website at participating locations. Add the reward to your account and confirm that your preferred restaurant is participating before placing your order.
Stop & Shop: Free Container of Ice Cream
Stop & Shop is offering one of the most valuable promotions for National Ice Cream Day in Nassau County.
From Friday, July 17 through Thursday, July 23, customers who check in at an in-store Savings Station kiosk can receive a digital coupon for one free 1.5-quart container of Stop & Shop brand ice cream.
No purchase is required, but the offer is available only while supplies last. Nassau County Stop & Shop locations include stores in communities such as Port Washington and New Hyde Park, although product availability may differ by store.
Uncle Giuseppe’s Marketplace: Two Gelato Scoops for $2.50
Uncle Giuseppe’s Marketplace was reported to be offering two scoops of gelato for $2.50 on July 19 as part of its 25th-anniversary celebration.
The Long Island-based marketplace is also reported to be introducing an Italian Rainbow Cookie Gelato flavor. Because flavors and inventory may vary, contact your preferred Uncle Giuseppe’s location or check its official social media pages before visiting.
Baskin-Robbins Rewards Offer
Baskin-Robbins Rewards members have been reported as receiving $5 off an order of $20 or more from July 19 through July 25. A separate buy-one-get-one-free single-scoop promotion has also been reported for July 26.
Check the Baskin-Robbins app or rewards account for the 2026 offer before ordering. Individual franchise participation and redemption methods may vary.
Friendly’s Free Cone or Dish
Friendly’s has been reported as offering Fan Club Rewards members a free cone or dish in celebration of National Ice Cream Day and the restaurant chain’s 91st birthday.
The offer may be available for dine-in, carryout or qualifying online orders at participating restaurants. Confirm the details in your Friendly’s rewards account before visiting.
Dippin’ Dots Free Mini Cups
Participating Dippin’ Dots stores and shopping-center locations are expected to distribute free mini cups during a designated two-hour period on July 19.
Distribution times are location-specific, and the free cups will be available only while supplies last. Check the official Dippin’ Dots store locator or contact the nearest participating location for its giveaway time.
Carvel Dessert Disaster Contest
Carvel’s National Ice Cream Day promotion is a contest rather than a traditional free-scoop giveaway.
Fudgie Fanatics members may submit a photo of a “dessert disaster” through July 24 for an opportunity to win one of 500 gift cards for a free small Carvelanche. Review the official contest rules, eligibility requirements and submission instructions before entering.
Chuck E. Cheese and Dippin’ Dots
Chuck E. Cheese Fun Pass holders have been reported as being eligible for one free regular Dippin’ Dots from July 19 through July 23 by redeeming an in-app offer.
Guests may also be able to enter a promotion for a chance to win free Dippin’ Dots for a year. Check the Chuck E. Cheese app for local availability and complete terms.
Häagen-Dazs Sundae Promotion
Häagen-Dazs Rewards members have been reported as being eligible for a buy-one-get-one offer on select sundaes on Sundays through July 26 as part of a Sundae Funday promotion.
Check your rewards account and confirm that your preferred Häagen-Dazs Shop is participating before ordering.
Insomnia Cookies: Free Two-Scoop Cup
Insomnia Cookies customers have been reported as being eligible to receive a free two-scoop cup of ice cream with a qualifying purchase from July 17 through July 19.
Insomnia Rewards members may also earn double points during the promotional period. Review the offer in the app or on the company’s official website for purchase requirements and participating locations.
Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams: Free Sauce Pour
Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams has been reported as offering a complimentary fudge or caramel sauce pour with a qualifying scoop order on National Ice Cream Day.
This promotion may be limited to participating scoop shops. Check the company’s official website or social media account for local availability.
Petco: A Frozen Treat for Your Dog
Petco Vital Care Rewards members have been reported as being able to pick up a free Ben & Jerry’s Doggie Dessert at participating stores on July 19.
The frozen treats are intended for dogs and will be available only while supplies last. Contact your local Petco before making a special trip.
Before you go: National promotions may be offered only at participating locations. Some require advance rewards enrollment, activation through an app, a digital order or a minimum purchase. Offers may also sell out or change without notice.
Best Ice Cream Shops in Nassau County to Celebrate
Promotional freebies can be fun, but one of the best ways to celebrate National Ice Cream Day in Nassau County is by supporting the neighborhood businesses that make our communities special.
Not every independent shop will offer a July 19 discount, but these local destinations are worth adding to your summer list.
Hildebrandt’s in Williston Park
Hildebrandt’s offers the kind of nostalgic experience that turns dessert into a destination. The old-fashioned soda-fountain setting is ideal for anyone craving a classic sundae, milkshake or scoop served with a side of Long Island charm.
Instead of rushing in and out, consider making time to sit down and enjoy the atmosphere. It’s a fun choice for families, longtime residents and anyone who appreciates locally loved businesses with personality.
Marvel Frozen Dairy in Lido Beach
Few things feel more like summer on Long Island than stopping for a frozen treat after spending the day near the beach. Marvel Frozen Dairy in Lido Beach is a popular destination for soft serve, cones, shakes, sundaes and other classic favorites.
Its location makes it an easy addition to a South Shore outing. Spend the day near the water, rinse off the sand and finish your afternoon with something cold and sweet.
Smusht in Port Washington
Smusht in Port Washington is a fun option for anyone looking for something more creative than a traditional cone. The shop is known for ice cream sandwiches that pair cookies with ice cream and a variety of toppings.
Make it part of a Port Washington afternoon by exploring the downtown area, enjoying the waterfront and finishing your visit with a custom frozen treat.
Ralph’s Famous Italian Ices
Ralph’s Famous Italian Ices has multiple Long Island locations and a menu designed for families who can never agree on just one kind of dessert.
Depending on the location, choices may include Italian ice, cream ice, soft serve, frozen drinks and other seasonal treats. Menus and hours can vary, so check the nearest Nassau County location before heading out.
Carvel Locations Across Nassau County
Carvel has long been connected with Long Island birthdays, summer evenings, and family celebrations. From soft-serve cones and Flying Saucers to sundaes and signature ice cream cakes, it remains a nostalgic choice for many local residents.
National Ice Cream Day participation may vary by franchise, but it’s worth checking with your neighborhood Carvel to see whether it is offering a local special.
Uncle Giuseppe’s Gelato Counter
A trip to Uncle Giuseppe’s can easily include dinner ingredients, bakery treats and a stop at the gelato counter. The marketplace’s Italian-inspired food selection makes it a convenient destination for anyone who wants to combine grocery shopping with a National Ice Cream Day treat.
Because specialty gelato flavors and promotional supplies may sell out, visit earlier in the day or call ahead if you’re hoping to try a particular flavor.
Make It a Sweet Summer Day in Nassau County
National Ice Cream Day doesn’t have to be limited to a quick stop for dessert. Turn it into a simple family outing by pairing your favorite frozen treat with one of Nassau County’s parks, beaches or downtown districts.
- Spend the morning or afternoon at Jones Beach before visiting Marvel Frozen Dairy.
- Explore Sands Point Preserve and then head into Port Washington for an ice cream sandwich.
- Walk through downtown Williston Park before enjoying a classic soda-fountain experience at Hildebrandt’s.
- Visit Eisenhower Park and let the family choose a nearby ice cream shop afterward.
- Plan dinner in Port Washington, Garden City or another walkable downtown and finish with dessert.
- Create your own Nassau County ice cream tour by sharing one treat at several different shops.
Sometimes the simplest summer traditions become the most memorable. A walk, a park and an ice cream cone may be all you need to turn an ordinary Sunday into a day the family remembers.
For more local ideas, explore my guide to things to do in Nassau County this weekend or browse more Nassau County restaurants and local favorites.
National Ice Cream Day Tips Before You Go
- Join rewards programs early. Some offers may not appear immediately after registration.
- Download the required app. Several promotions must be activated or redeemed digitally.
- Confirm the location. Franchise owners may decide whether to participate in a national promotion.
- Read the purchase requirement. A free item may require a qualifying order or minimum purchase.
- Check the dates. Some offers begin before July 19 or continue after National Ice Cream Day.
- Go early. Free products and specialty flavors may be available only while supplies last.
- Check social media. Local businesses often announce last-minute specials on Facebook or Instagram.
- Have a backup plan. Popular locations may have longer lines, especially during the afternoon and evening.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is National Ice Cream Day in 2026?
National Ice Cream Day is Sunday, July 19, 2026. It is traditionally celebrated on the third Sunday in July.
Where can I get free ice cream in Nassau County?
Dairy Queen is offering DQ Rewards members a free Dilly Bar with a digital order of $1 or more from July 13 through July 19 at participating locations. Stop & Shop is also offering a digital coupon for a free 1.5-quart container of store-brand ice cream through participating Savings Station kiosks from July 17 through July 23, while supplies last.
Do I need a rewards account for the deals?
Many 2026 National Ice Cream Day promotions require a rewards membership, mobile app, digital coupon or qualifying purchase. Register and review the offer terms before visiting.
Are all Nassau County locations participating?
No. National chains may limit offers to participating locations, and individual franchise owners may choose whether to participate. Contact the location or check its official app before making a special trip.
Are Nassau County ice cream shops offering local specials?
Independent shops may announce limited-time flavors, discounts or giveaways closer to July 19. Check each business’s official website, Facebook page or Instagram account for the latest information.
What are some popular Nassau County ice cream shops?
Local options include Hildebrandt’s in Williston Park, Marvel Frozen Dairy in Lido Beach, Smusht in Port Washington, Ralph’s Famous Italian Ices and neighborhood Carvel locations.
Can I celebrate National Ice Cream Day with my dog?
Petco has reportedly been offering free Ben & Jerry’s Doggie Desserts to Vital Care Rewards members at participating stores on July 19, while supplies last. Verify the promotion with your local Petco before visiting.
What should I do if a location won’t honor a listed deal?
Promotions can vary by location and may sell out. Politely ask whether the offer requires an app, digital coupon, or rewards account. If the store is not participating, consider supporting a nearby locally owned ice cream shop instead.
Celebrate Summer and Support Local Businesses
One of the things I love most about Nassau County is that every neighborhood has its own traditions and hidden gems. National Ice Cream Day is a fun reminder to slow down, spend time with family and friends, and support the businesses that help our communities feel like home.
Whether you’re chasing a free treat, revisiting a childhood favorite, or introducing the family to a new neighborhood shop, there are plenty of sweet ways to celebrate National Ice Cream Day Nassau County style.
If you discover a verified local special that isn’t included here, send it my way. I’ll continue updating this guide as businesses announce additional promotions.
Happy National Ice Cream Day, Nassau County!
Editor’s note: Offers, dates, participation requirements, and product availability are subject to change. Promotions identified as reported had not been independently confirmed through an accessible official 2026 brand announcement at the time of publication. Verify each offer directly with the business before visiting.
