National Ice Cream Day – July 19
California is the nation’s leading ice cream producer, producing approximately 75 million gallons of regular ice cream and 31 million gallons of low-fat ice cream each year. Behind every scoop is the hard work and dedication of California’s dairy community and the dairy families whose commitment to producing high-quality milk helps make these delicious treats possible.
There’s no better way to celebrate summer than with ice cream! As we celebrate National Ice Cream Day on July 19, we’re recognizing California’s dairy community, dairy families, farmworkers, processors, truck drivers, retailers, and everyone across the supply chain who help bring this favorite frozen treat to families across the state and beyond.
The state’s dairy industry is also a cornerstone of California agriculture. According to the 2022 Census of Agriculture, Tulare and Merced counties led the state in milk sales, generating approximately $2.8 billion and $1.6 billion, respectively. Eight additional counties—Stanislaus, Kings, Kern, San Joaquin, Fresno, Madera, San Bernardino, and Sonoma—each recorded more than $100 million in milk sales, highlighting the strength and importance of dairy production across California.
Whether you enjoy your ice cream in a cone, a bowl, or blended into a milkshake, National Ice Cream Day is a perfect opportunity to appreciate the dairy community and everyone who helps make every frozen treat possible.
Happy National Ice Cream Day from all of us at the California Department of Food and Agriculture!