Sundaes & Sweet Moments: National Ice Cream Day Is the Best Reason for a Get-Together

I shared in a previous post how I bought an ice cream machine for my husband Chris’ birthday about 15 years ago—and with good reason. In our family, ice cream is basically one of our love languages.

Back when we lived in Montreal, we’d make the trek down to Burlington, Vermont, for Ben & Jerry’s Free Cone Day—and in those days, it was eat-all-you-want. So you'd better believe if there’s a National Ice Cream Day, we’re all in. This year it's Sunday, July 20th.

Summer calls for everything cool and refreshing, and it doesn’t get cooler than ice cream. This year, I leaned in with a backyard ice cream bar designed for every age, from tiny hands to grown-up palates.

THE SETTING

We hosted the celebration in our newly refreshed BBQ space—you may remember the post on the structure we added earlier this summer. Now that it’s protected, the space stays about 15 degrees cooler on average, making it the perfect summer hangout.

For this gathering, I added just enough charm: a few simple florals (if you know me, is that even a question?!), a linen runner, and the most darling acrylic scalloped pedestal bowls—perfectly sized for individual sundaes, even for little Miriam.

THE STAR OF THE SHOW

I made homemade vanilla and coffee ice cream the day before—simple, creamy, and the perfect base for layering flavor. The coffee version has become a mainstay and is running neck-and-neck with Trader Joe’s coffee ice cream as a family favorite (and if you haven’t tried it yet, go grab some- you can thank me later). It’s just a little more sophisticated than vanilla, and absolutely sublime with a drizzle of salted caramel.

THE TOPPINGS

This is where the fun really begins. I pulled together a playful and elevated mix of toppings—many of which I found at World Market:

– Chocolate-filled mini ice cream cones 

– Strawberry coconut rolls 

– Pineapple-shaped shortbread cookies 

– Strawberry syrup & salted caramel drizzle 

– Fresh whipped cream 

– Bourbon cherries 

– And of course… sprinkles (because what is an ice cream bar without the sprinkles?)

Everything was arranged on an oversized marble lazy Susan, which made topping access a breeze for everyone and added a beautiful, functional centerpiece to the setup.

MOMENTS THAT MATTER

The best part? Precious family time. No agenda, no rush—just everyone gathered around, creating their own sundaes and talking about which combo is the winner and why.

We all know, as the kids grow, these moments become more rare and more treasured. And as long as I can, I’ll keep creating the kind of gatherings that invite joy, connection, and a little sticky-fingered sweetness.

😆 oh boy- you can sure tell she's the first grandkid 😆 This might look staged (at least I know that's what I'd think) but it most definitely was NOT!

WANT TO HOST YOUR OWN?

If you're busy during National Ice Cream Day this Sunday, don’t worry—no one will make you wait until next year.

It doesn’t take much to create a little summer magic: 

– Grab a few ice cream favorites  

– Mix in some fun toppings, from fresh fruit to crushed cookies 

– Whether you use fancy bowls or clear plastic cups, make it special by setting it out with style and cute, outdoor-friendly serveware.

These casual, thoughtful moments are what make a house feel like home—and a gathering feel like a core memory in the making.

Photos by Tori Wible

OVER TO YOU...

Have a favorite ice cream combo or go-to party topping? I’d love to hear what your family scoops up! Share it below or tag me @simopdesigns so I can celebrate with you.

You can't buy happiness, but you can buy ice cream. And that's kind of the same thing." – Unknown

Lisa

Let's make something beautiful.