Happy National Bomb Pop Day! Celebrating America’s Favorite Red, White & Blue Treat

There’s something about a Bomb Pop that instantly takes you back to summer afternoons, neighborhood ice cream trucks, backyard barbecues, and chasing fireflies before the streetlights came on.

Every year on the last Thursday in June, we celebrate National Bomb Pop Day, a delicious holiday dedicated to one of America’s most iconic frozen treats. With its unmistakable red, white, and blue colors and rocket-shaped design, the Bomb Pop has become a symbol of summertime and patriotic celebrations.

The History of the Bomb Pop

The Bomb Pop was invented on July 30, 1955, by D.S. “Doc” Abernethy and James S. Merritt of Merritt Foods in Kansas City, Missouri. The frozen treat debuted during the early years of the Cold War and was designed to capture the patriotic spirit of the era. Its distinctive rocket shape and red, white, and blue colors reflected both America’s fascination with the space age and national pride.

The original Bomb Pop featured three refreshing flavors:

• 🍒 Cherry (red)
• 🍋 Lime (white)
• 🫐 Blue Raspberry (blue)

That flavor combination remains a fan favorite even today.

From Summer Treat to American Icon

Throughout the decades, Bomb Pops became a staple of ice cream trucks, convenience stores, neighborhood pools, and Fourth of July celebrations. Their patriotic colors made them a natural fit for Independence Day festivities, and generations of kids have grown up enjoying the classic frozen pop.

In 1991, Merritt Foods closed its doors, but the Bomb Pop lived on when Wells Enterprises (makers of Blue Bunny ice cream) acquired the brand. Since then, Bomb Pops have expanded into numerous flavors and special editions while keeping the original classic available for longtime fans.

National Bomb Pop Day

National Bomb Pop Day was established in 2005 as part of the Bomb Pop’s 50th anniversary celebration. Since then, it has been observed annually on the last Thursday in June, giving everyone another excuse to enjoy this nostalgic summer favorite before Independence Day arrives.

Why We Still Love Bomb Pops

Some treats come and go, but the Bomb Pop has stood the test of time because it represents more than just a frozen dessert—it represents memories.

It reminds us of:

• Ice cream trucks playing familiar tunes down the street
• Summer vacations and long afternoons outside
• Family picnics and backyard cookouts
• Fourth of July fireworks
• Simpler times spent with friends and family

One bite is enough to transport many of us right back to childhood.

Celebrate Today!

Whether you pick one up from your local grocery store, chase down an ice cream truck, or share one with your kids or grandkids, today is the perfect day to enjoy this classic frozen favorite.

Happy National Bomb Pop Day! Here’s to sweet memories, sunny days, and one of America’s most iconic summertime treats.

What’s your favorite Bomb Pop memory? Share it in the comments below! 🇺🇸🍧