Whitefish Bay Ice Cream Social: Music, Neighbors & Free Treats
Few North Shore traditions say “school’s out” quite like the Whitefish Bay Civic Foundation’s Ice Cream Socials. Blankets spread across Old School House Park, the Village Band warming up under the trees, and kiddos racing back from the serving tables with cones already dripping. The Civic Foundation is offering two socials this year.
2026 Dates at a Glance
Wednesday, June 17 – 6-7:30 pm
Wednesday, September 2 – 6-7:30 pm
Location for both: Old School House Park, 5240 N. Marlborough Dr. (next to the Whitefish Bay Library)
What Makes These Socials Special
Complimentary ice cream! Your treat is on the Civic Foundation—just step up and choose your flavor.
Live music by the Village Band of Whitefish Bay.
Pro Tips for Families
Arrive early to grab prime lawn space and let kids play before lines form.
Pack the picnic staples. Blankets, refillable water bottles, insect repellent, and wet-wipes for sticky fingers keep the evening smooth.
Bike or walk over if you can. Parking on Marlborough fills quickly
Give Back & Keep the Tradition Strong
These socials run entirely on volunteers and local sponsorships. If your family has enjoyed the event in years past, consider:
Signing up for a serving shift (kids love handing out napkins).
Sponsoring a toppings table through your business or civic group.
Dropping a few dollars in the donation jars to help the Civic Foundation cover next year’s costs.
Volunteer links typically go live on the Civic Foundation’s website about two weeks beforehand; keep an eye on their social channels for sign-up details.
Quick FAQ
Cost? FREE
Restrooms? Public facilities are inside the adjacent Whitefish Bay Library
Rain plan? Light drizzle won’t cancel—bring umbrellas. Severe weather updates post to the Civic Foundation Facebook page by 4 pm day-of.
Save the Dates
The ice cream socials are just one of the Whitefish Bay Civic Foundation’s annual festivities. Here’s what is included in the full 2025 calendar for the community:
May 2: Run the Bay
May 2: Green Day in the Bay
May 25: Memorial Day Ceremony at Armory Park
June 18: Ice Cream Social
July 4: Parade and Celebration
August 15: Sounds of Summer
September 2: Ice Cream Social
October 28–31: Great Pumpkin Festival
Whitefish Bay School Board members signaled this week that they are unlikely to move forward with a post-referendum survey, instead leaning toward a facilitated community engagement process and possible PR/marketing help.