On July 11, 2002, 7-Eleven celebrated its 75th birthday by giving customers a free Slurpee, marking the first official Free Slurpee Day.
Patrons who arrive between 11 a.m. and 7 p.m. will receive a free, 12-ounce Slurpee (while supplies last). We’re not suggesting you camp outside, but do you really want to miss out on a FREE Slurpee? With more than 300 flavors —ranging from sweet to sour. There’s a Slurpee for every palette.
WHO: Everyone!
WHAT: National Free Slurpee Day Event
WHERE: Speedway - Obviously, no purchase necessary (Little park to right. Bring a chair!)
WHEN: 7/11/24 from 1:00 - 2:00pm
WHY: To hang out and enjoy some good company & get a FREE Slurpee (while supplies last)
HISTORY OF FREE SLURPEE DAY
The Slurpee, created by Omar Knedlik, was first known by the name ICEE. Like many great inventions, it was discovered purely on accident. Knedlick got the idea after one of his soda fountains broke down, forcing him to put his sodas in the freezer to keep cool. The resulting soda slush was a hit with Knedlick’s customers prompting him to create a machine that would freeze carbonated drinks.
Realizing the success of the ICEE, soon there was a licensing deal madel with Knedlick in 1965 to sell the product under a different name; one that would only be sold in its stores. In 1966, the Slurpee was officially born. The name was coined by an advertising executive referencing the sound made when drinking it.
By the spring of 1967, every relevant store in the country had a Slurpee machine. To fuel the rising Slurpee fanfare, they would introduce eye-catching —if not, risqué— names for its new flavors. Novelty names like Pink Fink, Moonshine, Sticky Icky, Gully Washer, and Adults Only were added to the growing list of flavors.