Did Someone Say Free Slurpees?

During the 1950s, slushy drinks were created by inventor Omar Knedlik and shortly after, artist Ruth E. Taylor was hired to brand Icee. Inspired by its success, 7-Eleven hired the duo in 1965 to create their own slushy, which would be sold exclusively at their stores. Then, in 1966, the Slurpee was born and ever since the world has been hooked on this slushy beverage. During the 1970s, the drink grew in popularity after cups were sold featuring beloved cartoon characters, such as Scooby-Doo, The Hulk and Spider-Man. Then, when “The Simpsons” came along, they created a parody drink called the Squishee, inspiring 7-Eleven to collaborate with the franchise during the 2007 film. Then, in tribute to the Slurpee’s impact on the 1980s, Netflix’s “Stranger Things” featured it prominently during their third season.

Today, Slurpee continues to be consumed by millions of people around the world. Since their debut over fifty years ago, Slurpee has introduced a variety of exciting flavors—from classics like Coke and cherry to piña colada, blackberry smash, cotton candy and lemonade. They’ve frequently collaborated with popular films and video games to create limited release Slurpees, including Monster: Mutant Super Soda Red Dawn for “Deadpool 2,” AMP Energy Freeze for “Iron Man” and Under the Sea Pineapple for “The SpongeBob SquarePants Movie.”

Since 2002, 7-Eleven has celebrated National Slurpee Day on July 11th (7/11). However, due to the pandemic, the beloved holiday has been canceled. Yet, there’s still hope. Members of the free 7Rewards loyalty program will be given coupons for a free medium Slurpee, redeemable once in July. 7-Eleven has also pledged to donate 1 million free meals to Feeding America, the nation’s largest hunger-relief organization.

Celebrate the rich 50+ year history of Slurpees with your free drink, as well as some of our favorite Slurpee (and slushy) themed tattoos in the gallery below. Then let us know your favorite Slurpee flavor in the comments section on social media.