National Root Beer Float Day
Celebrate National Root Beer Float Day with an ice-cold treat - grab your favorite root beer and make a delicious float today!
Introduction
Nothing hits quite like the sweet fizz of a root beer float on a hot summer day. National Root Beer Float Day, celebrated each year on August 6, is a tribute to one of America’s most nostalgic and refreshing desserts. Combining frothy root beer and creamy vanilla ice cream, this old-school treat brings back memories of diners, soda fountains, and childhood summers. Whether you prefer it in a tall glass with a straw and spoon, or served up at your local A&W, it’s hard not to smile while sipping one. Some chains even give away free floats on this day to support charitable causes—making it a holiday that’s not only delicious but feel-good too. So, whether you're enjoying one solo, sharing it with your kids, or trying a spiked adult version, today’s all about honoring the sweet harmony of soda and scoop.
🥤 National Root Beer Float Day Countdown
Friday
6
August 2027
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National Root Beer Float Day Timeline
1893
Invention of the Root Beer Float
Frank J. Wisner, a Colorado pharmacist, invented the root beer float, which he initially named "Black Cow Mountain".
1920s
Heightened Popularity
The root beer float gained nationwide popularity in the U.S., aided by the wide adoption of home refrigeration.
1950s
Drive-In Fad Enhances Popularity
Drive-in restaurants like A&W popularized root beer floats as a classic carhop menu item during the post-war boom.
1986
Root Beer Float Commercialization
Stewart’s Fountain Classics began mass-producing bottled root beer float beverages, making the drink more readily available to households across America.
1990s
Root Beer Float in Popular Culture
Root beer floats made numerous appearances in popular television shows and movies, firmly establishing their iconic status in American culture.
2010s
National Root Beer Float Day Celebration
National Root Beer Float Day was widely celebrated with businesses like A&W offering free root beer floats on August 6th.
How to Celebrate National Root Beer Float Day
1
Host a root beer float party
Invite your friends over and have everyone bring their favorite flavors and toppings. You can also create a root beer float bar with lots of mix-ins and toppings.
2
Make homemade root beer floats
If you’re feeling creative, make your own root beer floats from scratch. Try making your own root beer syrup, or buy some pre-made, then add it to some good quality vanilla ice cream.
3
Visit a local restaurant
Many restaurants offer special root beer float drinks for the day. Stop by your favorite local spot on National Root Beer Float Day to sip on something special.
4
Go to a drive in movie
What better way to enjoy a cool summer night than watching a movie with friends and sipping on an icy cold root beer float? Make sure to grab lots of spoons, so you can all share.
5
Try a unique twist
Mix things up with some creative recipes like a Root Beer Float Pie or Root Beer Float Smoothie! Get creative and experiment with different flavors and toppings such as mint chip ice cream, crushed candy canes, or chocolate sauce.
Why We Love National Root Beer Float Day
A
Root Beer Floats are Delicious
It's hard to beat the classic combination of sweet ice cream and bubbly root beer. The combination of flavors just makes your taste buds tingle in delight. Whether you choose classic vanilla or a more adventurous flavor, there is no denying that a root beer float is always a delicious treat!
B
Root Beer Floats are easy to make
The beauty of making a root beer float is that it is incredibly easy. All you need is some cold root beer and some ice cream and voila - you have yourself an instant treat! Plus, if you want to get creative you can top it off with sprinkles, whipped cream, or whatever else your heart desires!
C
Root Beer Floats remind us of simpler times
There's something about having a root beer float that evokes nostalgia and brings us back to our childhoods. It reminds us of being in the park on hot summer days, or shared moments with family and friends. Root beer floats have become a special part of celebrating life’s joyous occasions!
Frequently Asked Questions
When is National Root Beer Float Day?
National Root Beer Float Day is celebrated every year on August 6th, and in 2027, it will take place on a Friday. Americans celebrate this frothy treat with giveaways, family traditions, and homemade floats. It’s a sweet way to beat the summer heat.
Who invented the root beer float?
Frank J. Wisner of Colorado is credited with inventing the root beer float in 1893. He called it the “Black Cow,” inspired by a snowy mountain peak that reminded him of ice cream floating in soda.
What are the main ingredients in a root beer float?
Just two classics: root beer and vanilla ice cream. Some people add whipped cream or a cherry on top, but the magic is in the simple combo.
Can I make a root beer float without dairy?
Absolutely! Use dairy-free vanilla ice cream and a root beer that’s plant-based. There are tons of delicious vegan and lactose-free versions that are just as satisfying.
Where can I get a free root beer float on this day?
Places like A&W Restaurants often offer free floats on August 6 as part of a charitable campaign. Be sure to check your local locations and social media for offers.
Are there variations of the root beer float?
Yes! Try using different sodas like cola, orange soda, or cream soda, or swap the ice cream for chocolate or coffee flavors. Spiked “adult” versions are popular too.
Why is it called a "float"?
The ice cream literally “floats” on top of the soda, melting slowly and blending into the drink. The fizz causes it to bubble up and foam, creating that fun, foamy texture.
What’s the best way to serve a root beer float?
Use a chilled glass, pour the root beer slowly over a scoop of vanilla ice cream, and serve immediately with a straw and long spoon. Bonus points for whipped cream and a cherry!
Can kids and adults both enjoy this?
Yes! Root beer floats are kid-friendly and nostalgic for adults. They’re great for parties, BBQs, or even just a cozy treat after dinner.
Is root beer alcoholic?
Traditional root beer is non-alcoholic, but there are alcoholic root beers available. For floats, most people use the classic soda version, but the adult twist is growing in popularity.
What if I don’t like root beer?
No problem—try a “float” with another soda! Cola, orange, or grape soda work well. You can still enjoy the fizz + ice cream combo with flavors you love.
Is this holiday popular nationwide?
Yes, it’s widely celebrated across the U.S., especially among fans of retro desserts. Social media, food blogs, and brands like A&W help keep the celebration alive each year.
How can I make my float extra fun?
Add colored straws, sprinkles, or serve it in a mason jar. Try a float bar with different sodas and ice cream flavors. It’s a simple treat that invites creativity!
Top Emojis for National Root Beer Float Day
🥤
Soft Drink
Represents the root beer base of the float. It’s bubbly, sweet, and nostalgic—just like the treat itself. Perfect for any post or message that celebrates summer sips and throwback desserts.
🍦
Soft Ice Cream
This soft-serve emoji stands for the essential second half of the float: that creamy scoop of ice cream that swirls and melts into the root beer, creating pure dessert magic.
✨
Sparkles
That first fizzy sip when ice cream hits soda? Pure joy. These sparkles add celebration and fun, capturing the float's feel-good, shareable vibe that makes everyone feel like a kid again.
National Root Beer Float Day Dates
Year
Date
Day
2026
Aug 6
Thursday
2027
Aug 6
Friday
2028
Aug 6
Sunday
2029
Aug 6
Monday
2030
Aug 6
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