The dog days of summer will be here soon, which means it’s time to start thinking about promo products that fit July observances. Think ice cream scoops for the local parlor to celebrate National Ice Cream Month, cocktail kits for loyal customers on National Mojito Day and travel water bowls for new pet owners on National Mutt Day. Especially during the warmest months, fun observances create ideal opportunities for selling more summertime promo products.

National Ice Cream Month

Established by Presidential Proclamation in 1984, National Ice Cream Month (and National Ice Cream Day on the third Sunday of July) celebrates this classic summer treat. The International Dairy Foods Association estimates that the average American consumes almost 25 gallons of ice cream each year. Relatedly, National Hot Fudge Sundae Day is celebrated on July 25.

PITCH: Encourage local ice cream shops, grocery stores and farmers markets to promote these dessert-centered observances with signage and giveaways like stress relievers, bowls and scoops.

Ice cream scoop (Mi6030) from Fey Promo (asi/54040)

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National Picnic Month

This observance is an ideal way to enjoy the great outdoors and a delicious meal with family and friends. During the warm summer weather, a picnic can be combined with yard games and even a hike or swim. Community, state and national parks will have the opportunity to encourage people to come visit, enjoy a picnic lunch and explore the landscape.

PITCH: Consider presenting picnic sets and blankets to local parks, community centers for summer movie nights and music-festival organizers.

Fleece picnic blanket in tote bag (FLB501US) from imprintID (asi/73651)

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July 11/National Mojito Day

This rum-based highball, first served in Cuba, has become a classic summer adult beverage in the U.S. It was also writer Ernest Hemingway’s favorite drink – he spent a lot of time imbibing in Cuba and South Florida. Different countries south of the border, such as Mexico and Peru, have variations on the classic recipe.

PITCH: Help local bars and restaurants promote their daily specials with T-shirts and headwear (for staff to wear and for sale), along with drinkware and coasters. Also consider companies’ employee happy hours.

Mojito cocktail kit (SOF001) from The Cocktail Box Co. (asi/45586)

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July 20/National Moon Day

This summer marks 53 years since astronauts Neil Armstrong, Michael Collins and Buzz Aldrin became the first people to walk on the moon on July 20. It was broadcast around the world, with 600 million people tuning in to watch live, and marked America’s victory in the ongoing Space Race against the Soviet Union during the Cold War.

PITCH: Astronaut-themed drinkware and rocket-shaped pens make great giveaways at educational sessions and documentary showings, along with summer items like towels, beach balls and tech items.

Astronaut phone holder (SPAK005) from Speeding Promos (asi/88690)

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July 31/National Mutt Day

According to the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA), about 3.1 million dogs enter animal shelters across the U.S. each year. Many of them are of mixed breed (also known as mutts), and animal-advocacy organizations encourage people to adopt rescue dogs instead of buying pure breeds.

PITCH: Propose essential pet products – like collars, leashes, bowls and toys – to shelters and pet shops that will be on board with encouraging “adopt, don’t shop” initiatives on this day.

Foldable pet bowl (JK-9121) from Jornik Manufacturing Corp. (asi/63549)

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