Indy 500® Ice Cream Float Bar

Customize your own floats with ice cream, soda, and toppings for a treat that makes any gathering feel extra special and fun.

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

This one tastes just like a creamsicle—bright, citrusy, and creamy.

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!