For a couple years now, Dairy Queen has sweetened up the first day of spring with Free Cone Day, the time of year when patrons can enjoy a free ice cream cone just by showing up. Unfortunately, Dairy Queen has made a major change to Free Cone Day this year.
Last month, Dairy Queen released a statement canceling Free Cone Day for 2021. Of course, we’ll miss that free vanilla soft serve, but it’s important to help prevent the spread of coronavirus until everyone is vaccinated.
What Happened to Free Cone Day?
The first day of spring has signaled Free Cone Day for plenty of DQ fans since 2015, but this year, we’ll be indulging a little differently. Dairy Queen is taking caution to the max when it comes to keeping customers safe, and that means postponing Free Cone Day again. The food holiday closest to our hearts would’ve been on Saturday, March 20, and the cancellation includes all locations in the US, Canada and Mexico.
While it’s sad news for those of us who were craving a free cone this year, there’s a silver lining. Dairy Queen has promised to bring back the goods again in 2022.
Did you try Dairy Queen’s March Blizzard of the Month?
You Can Still Get Your Fill of DQ
Dairy Queen is taking some extra precautions while we all continue to practice social distancing, but the ice cream giant’s doors are still open. DQ is focusing on keeping their restaurants squeaky clean, enforcing handwashing policies to protect both their customers and their employees. If you’d rather stay inside, you can always get your Dairy Queen fix courtesy of delivery apps like Uber Eats and Postmates.
Psst! Here’s why you should continue to stick to grocery delivery.
Indulge in Dairy Queen at Home with All of Our Top Copycat Recipes
Inspired by: Original Cheeseburger Signature StackburgerTwo mouthwatering burger patties stacked high with toppings like melted cheese, pickles, ketchup and mustard. Our smash burger recipe is just like DQ's Original Signature Stackburger—and maybe even better.
Inspired by: Reese's Peanut Butter Cup Blizzard TreatThese rich chocolate peanut butter shakes will make you feel as if you're sitting in your local Dairy Queen. But since you're the one whipping it up, you can add as many Reese's cups as you heart desires!
Inspired by: Pretzel Sticks with Zesty QuesoServe up warm pretzel sticks straight from the oven. Don't forget the cheese sauce! To make it zesty just like DQ's, add diced jalapenos and green chiles.
LAUREN HABERMEHL FOR TASTE OF HOME
You don't have to be a baker to make this ice cream cake for your next celebration! This ice cream cake recipe is inspired by the DQ classic—made with chocolate and vanilla ice cream, chocolate ganache and a thick layer of chocolate cookie crumbles.
Get Our Ice Cream Cake Recipe
Inspired by: Chili DogThe very thought of a hot dog dressed in chili makes us giddy. Just add slightly melted cheese to get that straight-from-the-drive-thru taste.
Inspired by: Caramel MooLatteYou can easily indulge in a MooLatte at home anytime. This copycat recipe will give you the extra caffeine to get you through your day.
Inspired by: Crispy Chicken SandwichHere's our take on the Crispy Chicken Sandwich from Dairy Queen. We know everyone says theirs is better than the original, but ours really is.
Inspired by: Banana SplitServe up this classic Dairy Queen staple at home! We promise it's not as intimidating as it looks. Top scoops of your favorite vanilla ice cream with sauce, whipped cream, strawberry slices and bananas. Sprinkle a few nuts on top for good measure, too.
Inspired by: Cheese CurdsDQ's cheese curds are the ultimate in delicious comfort food. Dip them in ranch dressing, ketchup or barbecue sauce for the full experience.
Inspired by: Strawberry SundaeA simple scoop of vanilla ice cream topped with strawberry jam makes for the perfect treat. We like adding a handful of chocolate chips and chopped nuts to our sundae.
Inspired by: Chicken Strip BasketYou can skip the drive-thru and make these golden chicken fingers in your own kitchen. They're finger-licking good!
Inspired by: Strawberry ShakeNo matter what the temperature is outside, there's nothing quite like a cool strawberry shake to finish a meal. Garnish with a dollop of whipped cream for the finishing touch.
Inspired by: Onion RingsThese Dairy Queen-inspired onion rings are a healthy alternative to the deep-fried version. But don't worry, they're still as crispy as ever!
Inspired by: Mint Chip ShakeYup, we even have a copycat recipe for DQ's latest (and limited time) release: their Mint Chip Shake! Ours even uses up a handful of Thin Mints...talk about yum.
Inspired by: Hot Fudge SundaeOur hot fudge sauce always turns out smooth and yummy—just like DQ's. The dark chocolate flavor, with a hint of rum extract, is not overly sweet but will still satisfy a chocoholic's cravings when served over vanilla ice cream.
Inspired by: Cherry Misty FreezeBlend together a homemade Cherry Misty Freeze for a cool and refreshing treat. It's sure to hit the spot on both warm and cool days alike.
