Chill out this spring at DQ! Dairy Queen is king to ice cream lovers, thanks to the shop’s popular cones, sundaes, shakes and, of course, Blizzards. And they’ve been the coolest place for cool treats ever since they first opened in 1940. The ice cream shop celebrates spring with its annual (and extremely popular) FREE Cone Day on March 19, 2026.
Image: Dairy Queen
Since 2015, Free Cone Day marks the official kickoff to spring at DQ and has become a special tradition for ice cream lovers and DQ fans alike.
On March 19, 2026, Dairy Queen is celebrating the first day of spring with a FREE small vanilla cone for all customers at participating U.S. non-mall locations. No purchase necessary.
(Note: Mall locations may require an additional purchase, but only if they’re participating in the giveaway.)
You can also get your cone dipped for $1 at most locations. Plus, DQ Rewards members earn 2x points for purchases on March 19.
The complimentary cone is available all day, while supplies last. Limit one cone per customer.
The offer is not valid on delivery or mobile orders.
There are 75 DQ shops in Colorado.
Dan in Boulder says
I’ve gotten this offer before, but last year the line was way too long (way out the door) in late evening at my nearest DQ, next door to a CU dormitory complex. But this year the first day of spring falls during CU Boulder Spring Break, so hopefully the line will be manageable; I’ve already put this on my calendar!