First, let me set the record straight: National Ice Cream Day really is a thing, despite one cyclist’s claim that I invented it simply to justify an ice cream outing. Although I must admit, I wish I’d thought of it myself. Imagine the possibilities: an official day dedicated to eating ice cream paired with… well, just about anything. So, if I happen to disguise an ice cream stop as a fitness activity—so be it.
The celebration actually has its roots in the United States. In 1984, President Ronald Reagan proclaimed the third Sunday in July as National Ice Cream Day, encouraging Americans to recognize the dairy industry and its role in the country’s culture and economy. Canadians eventually embraced the tradition, proving that a good excuse for ice cream knows no borders.
As far as I’m concerned, this day is the perfect reason to enjoy a decadently delicious frozen treat. Judging by the turnout, very little arm twisting was required to convince my companions to join in. And if anyone is feeling even the slightest twinge of guilt, there’s always the convenient argument that a little exercise beforehand balances everything out.
That is exactly what inspires today’s group ride along the Waterfront Trail. We gather at Lamoureux Park, pick up a few cyclists along the way, and head toward Long Sault. For a welcome change, it’s a cool summer day. The wind, however, blows steadily from the west, making us work a little harder than usual. No one complains. We’re simply happy to be outside, enjoying the sunshine, the scenery, and the opportunity to earn our just desserts.
We pause at the top of Long Sault’s biggest hill—the one we’ve nicknamed “Big Bertha”—to wait for everyone to reach the summit and catch their breath. Our next stop is the gazebo at the Lost Villages Museum for a short break. The museum is open, and a few visitors wander among the heritage buildings. I always enjoy spending time here. There’s something comforting about these quiet reminders of the past.
We don’t have much farther to go before reaching the entrance to the Long Sault Parkway, our turnaround spot for today’s ride. After gathering everyone together for a group photo, we head back. With the wind now at our backs, the kilometres seem to roll away more quickly. The promise of a cold, sweet treat waiting at the end is excellent motivation, and one I’m more than happy to promote like a shoulder devil disguised as an angel.
At Power Dam Road, we cross over to the path beneath the hydro lines and continue on to Archie’s for our celebratory ice cream. The lone attendant keeps busy, taking orders at one window, preparing each treat, then handing them out through the next to a growing line of eager customers. I can’t help but wonder if anyone will arrive to give her a hand.
The flavours range from Black Cherry to Dockside Cappuccino, served in cups or cones. I stray from my usual favourites and order Kawartha Tragically Chip purely because of its name. I admit that I’m occasionally a sucker for clever marketing. Besides, the flavour immediately reminds me of Bobcaygeon by The Tragically Hip, making it the perfect choice for putting a Canadian spin on the day. Don’t you think? Once everyone has their scoop in hand, I silently offer my own toast: “Hip, hip, Tragically Hip, hooray!”
Feeling satisfied from our bellies to our toes, we climb back onto our saddles. The ride isn’t quite over yet; there are still a few kilometres before we reach our respective starting points. Along the way, we say goodbye as our fellow cyclists peel off one by one, each following their own route home. Before long, only a couple of us remain, enjoying the final stretch together.
Whether these special days are rooted in tradition, dreamed up by marketers, or somewhere in between, they give us a reason to pause, get outside, and enjoy a little fun with friends. And when that fun involves an ice cream cone, how can you go wrong? After all, National Ice Cream Day is a pretty sweet excuse. Now I’m curious—if you could choose a National Day of your own, what would it be?
For more information about the Cornwall Outdoor Club de Plein Air, visit our website at www.cornwalloutdoor.ca or follow us on Facebook.
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