NEW JERSEY — Sunday is National Ice Cream Day, as if you need an excuse. Back in 1984, Pres. Ronald Reagan designated July as National Ice Cream Month and the third Sunday of that month as National Ice Cream Day.
The delicious dessert reaches back centuries, and in America, "George Washington spent approximately $200 for ice cream during the summer of 1790," says the Dairy Foods Association, years after he finished licking King George III.
Ice cream has a history in New Jersey. The first ice cream cones were sold by inventor Italo Marchiony in Hoboken — where three new gelato and ice cream shops are set to open this summer.
Also, a Breyer's plant in Newark used to pump out more than 75,000 quarts per day.
Here are some ice cream shops around New Jersey to check out this weekend, compiled from the shops' announcements, press releases, and a little personal experience:
The ice cream parlor in Teaneck, NJ is celebrating 85 years as a family-owned location. Grab your favorite flavors from Chocolate Cherry to Rum Raisin, as well as malted shakes, sundaes and more.
Holsten's Ice Cream, Chocolate and Restaurant, Bloomfield
Head a little further south to Bloomfield for Holsten's Ice Cream, Chocolate and Restaurant. Another long-standing spot, you may recognize this 75-year-old parlor from the finale of The Sopranos!
The classic ice cream shop says, "To celebrate + show our appreciation we are giving away a $100 Torico Gift Card to one lucky winner!" See Instagram for more.
One scoop… or 8? Hoffman's in Point Pleasant Beach has an Octopus Sundae that will be enough to count as breakfast, lunch, and dinner this National Ice Cream Day.
Surreal Creamery, New Brunswick and Westfield
Boba anyone? If you're into milk and bubble teas, Surreal has a great selection of ice cream and boba combos, along with some impressive mason jar ice cream sundaes, to spice up your celebration!
Waffle cone or waffle sundae? Coney Waffle has both; grab your favorite scoops inside a Belgian waffle at their Somerville location. If cake is more your speed, they have a variety of elaborate ice cream cakes to select from as well.
Salty Paws (for dogs), Stone Harbor
No pet left behind this National Ice Cream Day! Salty Paws in Stone Harbor, NJ is all about your pup, serving as the first doggie ice cream bar in New Jersey. No ice cream for adults at this joint, but plenty to go around for all your furry friends.
This old-time family-friendly restaurant serves up huge meals, salads, and the largest ice cream sundaes you've ever seen. They've also got a family-friendly arcade, mini golf, and a gift shop.
Here Are Some Chain Stores Offering Deals:
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