Dairy Processor News

IDFA Capitol Hill Ice Cream Party to return June 11

The International Dairy Foods Association’s (IDFA) 41st Capitol Hill Ice Cream Party will bring together thousands of guests, including members of Congress and officials from the executive branch, for a fun event showcasing America’s favorite frozen treats.

Over four decades, the event has grown into a tradition where chiefs of staff chill with interns, Blue Dogs scoop with Freedom Caucus members, and policy wonks debate toppings — not politics.

“Each year, the Capitol Hill Ice Cream Party is IDFA’s chance to show gratitude to the dedicated individuals serving in Congress and across federal agencies,” said Michael Dykes, IDFA president and CEO. “Few things unite us like ice cream! This bipartisan event brings everyone together to enjoy some fun, connection, and, of course, a scoop (or two) of America’s favorite frozen dessert.”

The 41st Annual IDFA Capitol Hill Ice Cream Party will take place at Union Square Park on Capitol Hill on Wednesday, June 11 from 4 to 6 p.m. The park is located west of the Capitol in the area encompassing the Capitol Reflecting Pool and the Grant Memorial.

IDFA Ice Cream Stats:

U.S. ice cream makers contribute $11.4 billion to the U.S. economy and support 27,100 dairy industry jobs, according to IDFA’s Dairy Delivers economic impact report.
According to a 2024 IDFA survey done in partnership with Morning Consult, 97% of Americans love or like ice cream.
In that same survey, Americans shared their top five ice cream flavors: vanilla, chocolate, strawberry, butter pecan, and cookie dough.
In a survey of U.S. Capitol Hill staffers, when asked what flavors best describes the U.S. Congress, 43% of respondents picked “Rocky Road: Anything but Smooth.” Other popular responses were “Banana Split: Split Down the Middle” and “Butter Pecan: Rich and Nutty.”
The average American eats roughly 19 pounds of ice cream each year, or about 4 gallons.
Global flavors and spicy-sweet pairings delighted judges at the 2025 IDFA Innovative Ice Cream Contests.
Fortune Business Insights estimates the global ice cream market will reach $132.32 billion in 2032, up from $79.08 billion in 2024—a 67% jump in less than a decade due to the world’s craving for ice cream.
The majority of U.S. ice cream and frozen dessert manufacturers have been in business for more than 50 years, and many are still family-owned businesses.
National Ice Cream Day is Sunday, July 20. In 1984, President Ronald Reagan designated July as National Ice Cream Month and the third Sunday of the month as National Ice Cream Day. In the proclamation, President Reagan called for all people of the United States to observe these events with "appropriate ceremonies and activities."
Thomas Jefferson is credited as the first American to write down an ice cream recipe.