This tradition started in 1979, when Ben Cohen and Jerry Greenfield wanted to thank their loyal customers. They painted a sign that said “FREE ICE CREAM” and basically dared the town of Burlington, Vermont, to riot. It worked. In fact, the first Free Cone Day was so successful that a few locals reportedly ran out of the shop screaming, “Too much happiness!”
Now, it’s a global phenomenon. Over one million free scoops are given away annually across more than 50 countries. That’s enough ice cream to fill a swimming pool—and I mean a really weird, delicious-smelling swimming pool you’d definitely fall into.
Let’s be honest: the main surprise isn’t that Ben & Jerry’s gives away ice cream. It’s that they haven’t caused a global sugar coma yet. The actual surprise? The company uses this day to promote social justice. While you’re licking a cone of “Justice Remix’d,” they’re shouting about climate change and criminal justice reform. It’s like a protest you can eat.
What You Need to Know (If You Want to Conquer the Line)
First, you must arrive early. The lines look less like a queue and more like a zombie apocalypse where the zombies crave Cherry Garcia. In New York City, people camp out before dawn. In Tokyo, they bow politely while secretly plotting your scoop-stealing strategies.
Second, strategize your flavors. Do not—I repeat, do not—make small talk with the scooper about the weather. They hold your fate in their hands. Compliment their tie-dye shirt. Ask about their pet. If they sneeze, say “bless you” like you mean it. A happy scooper gives you that extra dollop of “The Tonight Dough.”
Ben & Jerry's offers free ice cream cones on Tuesday | 9news.com
Here’s a fun fact: Ben & Jerry’s often runs out of Chocolate Fudge Brownie first. It’s a scientific fact. The reason? It’s scientifically impossible to resist. If you see the bin getting low, you must act. Push forward with the energy of a salmon swimming upstream, but with more sprinkles.
