Ben & Jerry's postpones Free Cone Day over coronavirus
Ethan BakuliFor over 40 years, Ben & Jerry's has been offering a free scoop of ice cream every spring to its customers and fans for "Free Cone Day."
This year, however, marks a temporary break from tradition.
In light of concern over the outbreak of coronavirus, also known as COVID-19, the longstanding ice cream maker has postponed its annual day of celebration, normally scheduled for the second Tuesday in April.
More:Here's when Vermont creemee stands are opening
The first Free Cone Day was held on May 5, 1979, as a sign of appreciation to Ben & Jerry's customers and staff on the first anniversary of the company's opening in downtown Burlington.
"This year, some of our scoop shops in communities around the world will be unable to take part in Free Cone Day due to precautions put in place by local Governments around large public gatherings, considering the increasing presence of COVID-19," read a press release from Ben & Jerry's.
"So, to stand in solidarity with ice cream lovers everywhere, we have made the difficult decision to postpone Free Cone Day this year"
In the meanwhile, Ben & Jerry's ice cream shops will continue to remain open. The company plans as of now to reschedule Free Cone Day for later in the year.
Contact Ethan Bakuli at (802) 556-1804 or ebakuli@freepressmedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @BakuliEthan. This coverage is only possible with support from our readers. Sign up for a digital subscription.