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Dairy Queen (DQ) is one of the most beloved ice cream and fast-food chains in the world.

Known for its signature Blizzard, soft-serve cones, and classic burgers, Dairy Queen has been a staple in American food culture for decades. But how did this iconic brand get its start? Let’s take a journey through the history of Dairy Queen and explore how it became the frozen treat powerhouse it is today.

The Birth of Dairy Queen

Dairy Queen Stand With Giant Bananas
Source: PhotoQuest / Getty

Dairy Queen’s story began in 1938 when John Fremont “Grandpa” McCullough and his son Alex developed a new type of soft-serve ice cream. They approached Sherb Noble, a friend and entrepreneur, to test their product at his ice cream shop in Kankakee, Illinois. On the first day, they sold over 1,600 servings of soft serve—proving they had something special.

Encouraged by this success, the first official Dairy Queen store opened on June 22, 1940, in Joliet, Illinois. The concept of soft-serve ice cream was revolutionary at the time, and Dairy Queen quickly gained popularity.

Expansion and Innovation

Dairy Queen’s unique ice cream formula and innovative marketing helped the brand expand rapidly. By the 1950s, there were over 2,600 locations across the United States and Canada. The introduction of franchises allowed the company to grow while maintaining consistent quality.

Dairy Queen ice cream sign, Gila Bend, Arizona; ca. 1979
Source: HUM Images / Getty

As Dairy Queen expanded, it also diversified its menu. The addition of burgers, hot dogs, fries, and other fast-food items made DQ more than just an ice cream shop. The introduction of the Dilly Bar in 1955 and the now-famous Blizzard in 1985 helped solidify Dairy Queen’s reputation as a go-to destination for frozen treats.

The Rise of the Blizzard

One of the most significant milestones in Dairy Queen’s history came in 1985 with the launch of the Blizzard. This thick, spoonable soft-serve treat, mixed with a variety of toppings like cookies, candy, and brownies, became an instant sensation. In its first year alone, Dairy Queen sold over 175 million Blizzards, making it one of the most successful product launches in fast-food history.

Two-Story Dairy Queen The First To Open In Manhattan
Source: Andrew Burton / Getty

Dairy Queen Today

Today, Dairy Queen operates in over 20 countries, with thousands of locations worldwide. The company continues to innovate with new flavors, seasonal treats, and promotions, all while maintaining its classic menu items that fans love.

Cars lined up in the drive thru lane to pick up their food at the local Dairy Queen in Lansing, Kansas
Source: UCG / Getty

In addition to its famous ice cream, Dairy Queen has also embraced community involvement. Many locations participate in fundraisers and charitable events, particularly through Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals.

The Sweet History of Dairy Queen: From Soft Serve to Global Icon  was originally published on roneb1057.staging.go.ione.nyc