The Utica Ice Cream Festival runs Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Monday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 11324 Mt. Vernon Road in Utica. Credit: Submitted

UTICA – The countdown is on for the 50th Anniversary of the Utica Ice Cream Festival, taking place Memorial Day weekend, May 23 to 25, in Utica.

As one of Ohio’s most beloved family traditions celebrates its golden anniversary, festival organizers are inviting visitors from across the state to join in three unforgettable days of community celebration, entertainment, and ice cream-filled fun.

For five decades, the Utica Ice Cream Festival has marked the unofficial start of summer in Ohio, bringing generations of families together for live music, local food and craft vendors, children’s activities, classic cars, community traditions, and plenty of Velvet Ice Cream favorites.

“This year’s festival is especially meaningful because we are celebrating 50 years of memories made right here in Utica,” said Luconda Dager, President of Velvet Ice Cream.

“There is something incredibly special about seeing families return year after year and now bringing new generations with them. We are excited to celebrate this milestone with the entire community.”

The golden anniversary celebration will feature expanded entertainment throughout the weekend, special commemorative moments honoring the festival’s history, and tributes recognizing the volunteers, community partners, and local leaders who have helped shape the event since its beginning in 1976.

Festivalgoers can expect a full schedule of activities throughout Memorial Day weekend, including live performances, children’s attractions, parade festivities, classic festival foods, shopping from local artisans and businesses, and, of course, scoops of favorite Velvet Ice Cream flavors.

“For many Ohio families, the Utica Ice Cream Festival is more than an event, it is a tradition,” said Joanne Dager, Vice President of Velvet Ice Cream. “Reaching 50 years is an incredible milestone, and we cannot wait to welcome visitors back to Utica for what will be our biggest and most memorable celebration yet.”

The Utica Ice Cream Festival runs Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Monday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 11324 Mt. Vernon Road in Utica.