As Friendly’s marks its 90th anniversary this summer, the iconic brand isn’t just celebrating a milestone; it’s commemorating nine decades of birthdays, celebrations, and countless memories served with a scoop. The festivities are scheduled for July 18th through July 20th. They will be packed with fanfare, from free cones and exclusive merch to 90-cent ice cream and party kits designed to bring the celebration home.
This isn’t just any birthday; it’s a tribute to generations who’ve grown up with Friendly’s as a part of their family traditions. It’s a nod to childhood trips for Fribbles® after Little League games, first dates shared over sundaes, and late-night SuperMelts® in cozy booths.
A Legacy Worth Celebrating
Founded in 1935, Friendly’s opened its first shop in Springfield, Massachusetts, at the tail end of the Great Depression. The shop offered double-dip cones for just five cents; it was a place of hope and happiness at a time America needed it most. Ninety years later, the mission remains the same: to serve comfort food and ice cream with a side of friendliness.
“We’re turning 90 the only way we know how – with sweet surprises, unbeatable value, and ice cream for everyone,” said Dawn Petite, President of Friendly’s Restaurants. “This celebration is our way of saying thank you to generations of families who’ve made Friendly’s part of their story.”
This July, the chain is going all-in on the gratitude and good times. Friendly’s is inviting guests to celebrate its birthday during a weekend bash that bridges Friendly’s Founders Day on July 18th with National Ice Cream Day on July 20th. The brand is rolling out a full lineup of birthday exclusives, all designed to capture the spirit of nostalgia while giving fans of all ages a reason to smile.
Scoop-Worthy Surprises Await
Here’s what guests can expect during the celebratory weekend:
- Free Ice Cream on July 20th: Friendly’s Fan Club Rewards members can enjoy a free cone or dish of their choice—no strings attached. Just download the app or sign up online.
- 90-Cent Ice Cream for All: Not a member? No problem. Friendly’s is offering single scoop cones and dishes for just 90 cents all weekend long, both in-store and to-go.
- 90th Anniversary Sunglasses: Be one of the first 90 guests at any location on July 18th and snag a pair of limited-edition Friendly’s anniversary sunglasses.
- Mini Scoop Collection: A trio of mini sugar cones featuring fan-favorite flavors, perfect for sampling or sharing—this adorable new offering lets everyone enjoy a taste of something classic.
And that’s just the start. For those planning to host their own ice cream bash at home, Friendly’s is giving away a Free Birthday in a Bag kit, which includes ice cream-themed party hats, games, and decorations available with the purchase of a 100-oz. Friendly’s sheet cake, while supplies last.
All of these treats are part of Friendly’s year-long celebration of its roots, which has included the revival of classic menu favorites and the introduction of playful new items that pay homage to its retro charm.
More Than Ice Cream: It’s a Piece of American History
Anniversaries in the restaurant world aren’t just about the passage of time; they’re about resilience, adaptation, and relationships. Few restaurant brands make it to 90 years, and even fewer do it while still serving generations of loyal customers.
Friendly’s joins a rare class of legacy brands that have stood the test of time. Names like A&W (established 1919), White Castle (established 1921), and Krispy Kreme (established 1937) have all reached or surpassed the 75-year mark. Each has its own unique story, but all share one thing in common: a deep emotional connection with their customers. Friendly’s, with its blend of ice cream shop whimsy and diner-style warmth, has cemented its role in that lineage.
While many brands pivot sharply with each new generation, Friendly’s has struck a delicate balance. Evolving enough to stay current while keeping its roots intact. From the return of beloved menu items like the Patty Melt and Conehead Sundae to the launch of new digital initiatives, such as the Fan Club Rewards app, the brand is actively bridging the gap between tradition and innovation.
A Community Experience at Its Core
What truly sets Friendly’s apart is its commitment to community. Throughout its history, Friendly’s has been more than just a place to eat; it’s been a gathering spot. The brand’s design, from its round booths, family-friendly menus, and playful desserts, has always encouraged people to sit, stay, and share more than just a meal.
That communal spirit continues in the way this anniversary is being celebrated. Whether you’re visiting a location in-person or picking up a Birthday in a Bag for a party at home, you’re part of something bigger: a shared celebration of memories made around the table and over a cone.
This July’s promotion is a reflection of that inclusive spirit. The 90-cent cone price point; nostalgic in its own right; opens the door for every guest, new or returning, to be part of the moment. Meanwhile, the new Mini Scoop Collection offers a literal taste of Friendly’s history in bite-sized form.
Looking Ahead: Sweet Days Still to Come
While Friendly’s proudly reflects on 90 years of history, the focus isn’t only backward. With a renewed sense of purpose and a growing fanbase of young families and longtime devotees, the brand is looking ahead.
Its loyalty app continues to grow, connecting with digital-savvy guests and offering rewards that keep fans engaged. Limited-time menu innovations keep the offerings fresh while still paying homage to the past. And partnerships with local communities and franchisees ensure that Friendly’s legacy will continue well beyond this milestone year.
For fans and franchisees alike, this anniversary is more than just a birthday. It’s a celebration of something timeless.
Because for 90 years, Friendly’s has been there. Not just as a place to grab a bite or a sundae, but as a backdrop to life’s small but important moments. It has witnessed celebrations, comforted during tough times, and been a familiar constant in a changing world.
Plan Your Visit
Guests eager to join the celebration can stop by their local Friendly’s from July 18th through 20th, or sign up for the Friendly’s Fan Club Rewards at FriendlysRestaurants.com or by downloading the Friendly’s app. Whether you’re craving a scoop of Hunka Chunka PB Fudge® or eager to get your hands on those limited-edition sunglasses, this birthday bash is one for the memory books.
Because when a brand reaches 90 years, it’s not just a celebration of the business; it’s a celebration of the people who made it possible.
