Ice Cream Float Bar (The Ultimate Indy 500 Party Idea)
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Ice Cream Float Bar (The Ultimate Indy 500 Party Idea)
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There’s nothing better than a fun, low-effort party idea- and this Ice Cream Float Bar is exactly that. Whether you’re hosting friends for race day or just celebrating the start of summer, a DIY float bar is a guaranteed hit for both kids and adults.
I partnered with Hiland Dairy to create the ultimate float bar setup for the Indy 500- and it might just be the easiest (and most fun) party you’ll throw all season.
Why You’ll Love This Ice Cream Float Bar
Super easy to set up (no cooking required!)
Perfect for entertaining a crowd
Customizable for all ages
Great for summer parties, BBQs, and race day celebrations
Uses simple, family-friendly ingredients
How to Set Up an Ice Cream Float Bar
Creating a float bar is all about keeping things simple and fun!
1. Pick Your Ice Cream
Start with high-quality vanilla ice cream- this is the base of every great float. I used Hiland Dairy Vanilla Ice Cream because it’s creamy, rich, and pairs perfectly with every soda flavor.
2. Choose Your Drinks
Offer a variety of sodas so guests can mix and match. For this party, we’re featuring four fun float combinations (more on those below!).
3. Add Toppings
Set out small bowls with toppings like:
Whipped cream
Maraschino cherries
Sprinkles
Fresh fruit slices
Crushed cookies
4. Set the Scene
Lean into the race-day theme! Think:
Checkered flags
Red, white, and blue decor
Fun striped straws
Clear cups or mason jars to show off those float layers
The 4 Must-Try Ice Cream Float Combos
These four flavors are the stars of the party- and each one brings something a little different!
1. Classic Root Beer Float
You can’t go wrong with a classic. Creamy vanilla ice cream + cold root beer = pure nostalgia.
How to make:
Add 2 scoops of vanilla ice cream to a glass
Slowly pour root beer over the top
Finish with whipped cream and a cherry
2. Orange Cream Soda Float
How to make:
Add vanilla ice cream to a glass
Pour orange soda over the top
Garnish with an orange slice
3. Strawberry Lemonade Float
A fresh, summery twist that feels a little extra special.
How to make:
Add vanilla ice cream
Pour strawberry lemonade first and then finish with Sprite over the top
Top with fresh strawberries and a lemon slice
4. Cherry Cola Float
Sweet, slightly nostalgic, and always a crowd favorite.
How to make:
Add vanilla ice cream
Pour cherry cola over the top
Top with whipped cream and a cherry
Tips for Hosting the Perfect Float Bar
Pre-scoop ice cream: Scoop ahead of time and freeze on a tray for easy serving
Keep it cold: Place ice cream tubs in a bowl of ice if serving outside
Label flavors: Use small signs so guests can easily choose
Provide extras: Have napkins and spoons ready- floats can get messy!
Make It a Full Indy 500 Party
Turn your float bar into a full race-day celebration:
Set up a viewing area for the race
Create a simple snack table (chips, sliders, fruit trays)
Let guests “vote” for their favorite float flavor
Add a little friendly competition with race-themed games
If you’re looking for a simple way to make your party feel extra special, this Ice Cream Float Bar is it. It’s festive, family-friendly, and comes together in no time- exactly the kind of easy entertaining we all need.
With help from Hiland Dairy, you can create a sweet, memorable experience that everyone will love, whether you’re celebrating the Indianapolis 500 or just soaking up a summer afternoon.
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