National Ice Cream Day is almost here, and Livonia is ready to celebrate! Mark your calendar for Sunday, July 20, 2025, because this is the day to treat yourself, your family, and your friends to a scoop (or three) of pure happiness. This special day was made official back in 1984, and now every third Sunday in July is dedicated to the creamy, dreamy dessert that makes summer shine.
Scoop Up the Fun: How to Celebrate
There’s only one rule for National Ice Cream Day: eat ice cream and smile! Whether you love classic vanilla, wild flavors, or a giant banana split, there’s a perfect treat waiting for you in Livonia. Want to make the day extra fun? Try these ideas:
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Take your friends on a local ice cream tour
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Try a new flavor you’ve never had before
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Snap a photo with your cone and share your joy
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Surprise your kids with an after-dinner sundae
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Bring your pup for a dog-friendly frozen treat at select shops
Livonia’s Coolest Ice Cream Spots
Livonia is packed with places to get your ice cream fix. Each spot has its own style, flavors, and sweet surprises. Here’s your guide to the best local shops, complete with addresses so you can find your way to the next cold delight.
The Custard Parlor
27726 Plymouth Rd, Livonia, MI 48150
Step up to the window and order a creamy custard, a flurry loaded with toppings, or a parfait that’s almost too pretty to eat. The Custard Parlor is known for its smooth, rich custard and creative treats. Try a classic cone, a sundae with all the toppings, or a fruity parfait for a fresh twist. The friendly staff and fun menu make every visit a treat.
Handdip Dairy Barn
32624 5 Mile Rd, Livonia, MI 48154
Handdip Dairy Barn is a family favorite for a reason. The soft serve here is legendary, with vanilla, chocolate, and twist options that melt perfectly on your tongue. Build your own sundae with a mountain of toppings, or go for a brownie sundae with warm, gooey brownies and a cherry on top. The Dairy Barn opens each spring and becomes the go-to spot for summer smiles.
Ritter’s Frozen Custard
31227 8 Mile Rd, Livonia, MI 48152
Ritter’s is all about the custard—thick, rich, and made fresh every day. The menu is loaded with flavors, from fruity Mango Tango to nutty Maple Walnut. Try a specialty custard, a creamy milkshake, or a sundae piled high with whipped cream. Ritter’s is a must-visit for anyone who loves their ice cream extra smooth and extra delicious.
Vicky’s Homemade Ice Cream
26145 West 6 Mile Rd, Redford, MI 48240
Vicky’s Homemade Ice Cream is just a short drive from Livonia and is famous for its homemade flavors. Every scoop is made with care, and the flavor list is full of surprises. Try a classic vanilla, a bold blueberry cheesecake, or even a waffle ice cream sandwich. Vicky’s is also known for banana splits that are big enough to share (but you might not want to).
Dairy Whip
26215 Plymouth Rd, Redford, MI 48239
Dairy Whip is a classic spot for sundaes, shakes, and all the frozen goodies your heart desires. The menu is packed with options, from simple cones to over-the-top sundaes with every topping you can imagine. Bring the whole family and dig into a dessert that will keep you coming back all summer long.
Flavor Adventure: What to Try This Year
Ready to taste something new? Here are some flavors and treats you might find at Livonia’s ice cream shops:
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Cookie Dough: Classic and packed with sweet doughy bites
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Fresh Strawberry: Bursting with real fruit flavor
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Mango Tango: Fruity and refreshing
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Maple Walnut: Sweet, nutty, and oh-so-creamy
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Brownie Sundae: Warm brownies, cold ice cream, pure bliss
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Banana Split: A triple scoop treat with all the fixings
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Waffle Ice Cream Sandwich: Ice cream hugged by fresh waffles
Make It a Day to Remember
National Ice Cream Day is more than just a chance to eat dessert. It’s a time to laugh, share, and make sweet memories with the people you love. Livonia’s ice cream shops are ready to help you celebrate with big smiles, friendly service, and treats that taste like summer in every bite.
Sweet Tips for the Perfect Ice Cream Day
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Go early to beat the lines
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Bring cash, as some shops may not accept cards
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Try a new flavor or topping
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Share a sundae with a friend
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Take a walk in the park with your cone
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Don’t forget extra napkins
National Ice Cream Day is the perfect excuse to treat yourself and enjoy the simple pleasure of a cold scoop on a warm July day. Livonia’s ice cream shops are waiting with open doors and full freezers. Come hungry, leave happy, and make this summer a little sweeter—one scoop at a time.
Sources: nationaldaycalendar.com, yelp.com
Header Image Source: Jason Richard on Unsplash