Celebrate With a Well-Timed Free Cone From Ben & Jerry’s

Photo: Kate33 (Shutterstock)

Monday, April 3 will mark the 45th year since Ben & Jerry’s started giving free ice cream for their “Free Cone Day” celebration. A tradition that began the same year people first started walking the streets with Walkmans is coming back after a four-year hiatus during COVID-19, according to Today. Here is what you need to know.

Are the ice cream cones really free?

The ice cream will, indeed, be free. There are no strings attached or backdoor tricks to get you to sign up for a rewards program. Just know that any add-ons, like toppings or waffle or dipped cones, are extra. The motive behind the day is to “celebrate their first year in business and thank the local community for their support,” according to the company’s press release.

The great news for ice cream fans is that there is no limit to how many times you can get in line to receive the free cones (or a cup, if that’s your style)—if you have the time and patience to make the line more than once, that is. (The lines can get pretty long in some locations.) 

Ben & Jerry’s website says the free cones will be served from noon to 8 p.m., so make sure to get there early if you think your local store will get packed. According to the Krazy Coupon Lady, some locations might have groups raising money and giving front-of-the-line passes.

You can get any flavor that is available. If you’re racked with indecision, you can take this ice cream personality quiz that will recommend a flavor for you. Otherwise, here is a list of all of Ben & Jerry’s flavors—just know that your local store might not be carrying them all.

How can I find participating Ben & Jerry’s?

You can use this map to type your location and see all the Ben & Jerry’s near you. Since this is a world-wide event, if you happen to be reading this from outside the U.S., the map will also show you international locations where you can get your free cones.

Although most stores will be participating, Ben & Jerry’s recommends you double-check with your local store to make sure.