Dairy Queen is heralding the first day of spring today with free ice cream. The popular fast-food chain is holding its annual Free Cone Day in honor of the Spring Equinox, a tradition that has delighted ice cream enthusiasts for years. On March 20, 2025, visitors can enjoy a complimentary small vanilla cone at participating Dairy Queen outlets, as reported by USA Today.
Maria Hokanson, Executive Vice President of Marketing at Dairy Queen, expressed her enthusiasm for the event, stating, “Free Cone Day is by far one of our favorite days of the year. There’s nothing sweeter than enjoying a tasty cone – on DQ – to kick off a season full of reasons to celebrate.”
The offer is simple: customers can receive one free small vanilla cone, while supplies last. However, it’s important to note that this deal is limited to one cone per person and does not apply to delivery orders or mobile apps, as previously outlined by TODAY.com.
In a bid to add an extra layer of goodwill, Dairy Queen is also offering customers the chance to dip their cone in one of its delectable coatings for an additional $1. This small donation will support Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing medical care and resources to children across North America. Customers can enjoy a sweet treat while also contributing to a worthy cause.
This year, Dairy Queen's Free Cone Day falls on a Thursday, making it a perfect midweek indulgence. Customers looking to indulge are encouraged to arrive early, as availability is limited, and the popular cones tend to go quickly.
But Dairy Queen is not the only chain with such offerings. Two weeks later, on April 18, 2025, Ben & Jerry's will be hosting its own Free Cone Day, where patrons can enjoy unlimited complimentary scoops. This highlights a trend in the fast-food industry where chains leverage free promotional events to attract customers, build brand loyalty, and foster community connections.
Overall, Free Cone Day is a delightful reminder of the changing seasons and the simple joys of spring. Dairy Queen has adeptly tied the event to seasonal cheer and philanthropy, ensuring that customers can enjoy a treat while giving back to the community.
People looking for the nearest participating Dairy Queen can visit their website or use the DQ Rewards mobile app to find locations and check if they’re partaking in the offer. The promotion is a fun way to mark the first day of spring and enjoy a classic frozen favorite.
