National Vanilla Milkshake Day

Celebrated on 06/20/2026

Quick Fact

National Vanilla Milkshake Day is celebrated annually on June 20th. Vanilla is the most popular ice cream flavor in the United States, making up about 29% of all ice cream sales.

Origins and Establishment of National Vanilla Milkshake Day

National Vanilla Milkshake Day was created in 2011 by the National Day Calendar as a fun, unofficial holiday to celebrate the classic vanilla milkshake. The date June 20th was chosen to coincide with the beginning of summer, a peak season for milkshake consumption. While there is no single founder or company behind it, the day quickly gained popularity through social media and food blogs.

Evolution and Modern Commemoration

Initially celebrated by ice cream parlors and diners offering discounts, National Vanilla Milkshake Day has grown into a nationwide event. Restaurants and fast-food chains now promote special milkshake deals, and home cooks share recipes online. The day is also used to highlight the versatility of vanilla, with variations like vegan milkshakes or boozy versions gaining traction. Social media campaigns using #NationalVanillaMilkshakeDay help spread the celebration.

Facts & General Observations

• Americans consume over 23 gallons of ice cream per person annually, with vanilla milkshakes being a top choice.
• The first recorded milkshake recipe appeared in 1885, but it wasn't until the invention of the electric blender in 1922 that the modern milkshake became popular.
• Vanilla is the second most expensive spice in the world after saffron, but synthetic vanillin is used in most commercial milkshakes.

Explore more celebrations, trivia, and quests on National Day Quest.