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Ice Cream Social: Peace, Love & Ice Cream at the Museum of San Carlos History
Peace, Love, History & Ice Cream: Welcome to the Ice Cream Social and San Carlos Tie Dye Day
If you’ve been searching for the perfect excuse to break out that rainbow tie-dye shirt buried in your closet, look no further. San Carlos is about to get groovy with a colorful community celebration that combines a century of history, a scoop (or two) of ice cream, and a splash of classic cars. On Saturday, September 13th, 2025, the Museum of San Carlos History is hosting its annual Ice Cream Social, and this year it’s paired with Tie Dye Day in San Carlos.
This free afternoon event promises something for all ages: sweet treats, a peek into local history, a car show lineup that’ll make gearheads grin, and enough tie-dye fashion to make the 1960s jealous.
Ice Cream Social Photos by Gayle Collins
What’s Happening on September 13th
The fun kicks off at the Museum of San Carlos History (533 Laurel Street, next to the fire station) from 1:00 to 4:00 pm. The Museum doors are open to all, and here’s what’s waiting inside and outside:
- Centennial Sundaes generously donated by Baskin-Robbins in San Carlos, served between 1:30 and 3:30 pm. Four tubs of ice cream and toppings are ready to go, so bring your sweet tooth.
- Classic Car Mini-Show featuring gems like a 1970 Mercury Cougar, 1957 Ford Thunderbird, 1953 Mercury Convertible, and even a San Carlos Police Department 1963 Chevrolet. Of course, the Museum’s iconic 1927 Seagrave Firetruck will be parked proudly for photos.
- Opportunity Drawings and prizes up for grabs.
- Tie Dye Bonus – wear tie-dye and you’ll score a little extra treat.
Ice Cream Social Art by John Durkin
The Sweet Scoop on the Ice Cream Social
Let’s face it: ice cream is always a good idea. But ice cream that’s free? Even better. Add in the fact that Baskin-Robbins is donating the scoops, and you’ve got a hometown partnership worth cheering for.
Cars That Tell Stories
Some people come for the sprinkles. Others come for the horsepower. The Museum’s mini-car show adds another layer of excitement to the afternoon. A quick look at the lineup:
- 1970 Mercury Cougar
- 1957 Ford Thunderbird
- Two Model A Fords
- 1957 Ford Ranchero
- 1963 Chevrolet Police Department car
- 1968 Ford
- 1940 Ford
- 1953 Mercury Convertible
- 1940 Packard Woodie
- Plus the Museum’s beloved 1927 Seagrave Firetruck
It’s basically a history book on wheels, and you don’t even have to read footnotes.
Centennial Fun
The Museum isn’t just serving up ice cream—it’s also celebrating a major milestone: the San Carlos Centennial. That means this year’s Ice Cream Social is extra special, tying together a century of stories with a family-friendly afternoon. If you’ve ever wanted a crash course in local history that doesn’t feel like homework, this is it.
Ice Cream Social Art by John Durkin
The Big Opportunity Drawing
Now let’s talk prizes. The Museum is hosting a supersized Opportunity Drawing, and the grand prize is a staycation package right here in San Carlos:
- A one-night weekend stay at Residence Inn Redwood City/San Carlos (breakfast and parking included).
- A $50 gift certificate to Elia in San Carlos.
- A $25 gift certificate to Groovy Goose.
Tickets are $5 each, or you can grab five for $20. Pre-sales are happening at the Museum or through Venmo (@TrudySomrak). Don’t worry if you can’t stick around until the drawing at 3:45 pm—winners will be notified.
Why Tie Dye?
This event doubles as Tie Dye Day in San Carlos, which means the city is encouraging everyone to add a splash of color to their wardrobe. Think rainbow shirts, psychedelic socks, or even tie-dye accessories. The brighter, the better. The idea is simple: fill the town with color and community spirit.
Ice Cream Social Art by John Durkin
Bring the Family
This isn’t just an event for history buffs or ice cream lovers. It’s for families, friends, and anyone looking to spend a relaxed Saturday afternoon in San Carlos. Kids can explore the museum, parents can enjoy the classic cars, and everyone can end the day with a sundae. Best of all, it’s free to attend, making it one of the most accessible and fun events of the season.
Quick FAQ
Is the event free?
Yes! Admission and sundaes are free. Opportunity drawing tickets are optional.
Do I need to register?
Nope. Just show up between 1 and 4 pm.
Where is the Museum of San Carlos History?
533 Laurel Street, next to the fire station.
What’s the dress code?
Tie-dye encouraged. The more colorful, the better.
Do I need to be present to win raffle prizes?
No, winners will be notified.
Ice Cream Social by Gayle Collins
Why You Shouldn’t Miss It
San Carlos is wrapping together history, community, food, and fun in one bright package. From classic cars to centennial sundaes, it’s a day designed to make you smile and maybe even learn a thing or two about the town. Plus, when else can you say you spent the afternoon surrounded by peace signs, rainbow shirts, and a 1940 Packard Woodie?
So dig out that tie-dye, bring a friend, and head to the Museum of San Carlos History on Saturday, September 13th. It’s the sweetest way to celebrate community.
Ice Cream Social Photos by John Durkin
For more events by the Museum of San Carlos Histry, please check their official website
See other interesting events in San Carlos. You may also check the main calendar for the dates of these, or to save them on your personal calendar.
About San Carlos
About San Carlos Life
Mark Martinho and Vivienne Kelvin are the hosts of San Carlos Life and have been residents of San Carlos for years. While running San Carlos Life together with an awesome team, Mark and Viv are also in the business of real estate. They are the co-owners of Vabrato, a real estate brokerage with over 30 years of combined experience, serving the City of Good Living and the whole of San Mateo and Santa Clara counties.
With expert negotiation skills, in-depth local market knowledge, precise pricing strategies, and the latest technology paired with innovative marketing tactics, they consistently deliver exceptional results. Their proven track record includes helping sellers obtain offers above the asking price and guiding buyers to successfully secure their dream home.
Vabrato offers home sellers a comprehensive, one-stop solution that sets them apart from most traditional agents. Through their Design-to-Sell Service Package, they provide strategic property upgrades, cover upfront improvement costs, and manage the entire process from start to finish to maximize the net proceeds for the seller.
Mark is a Real Estate Broker and General Contractor, with degrees in Mechanical Engineering and Law. He is also a long-time resident of Redwood City and San Carlos. Viv is also a Broker, respected Interior Designer, seasoned Marketing Expert, and trusted San Carlos business community leader, as well as a long-time San Carlos resident.
Need help in buying or selling a home in San Carlos?
If you’re curious what your current home might sell for, we’ll provide a free, detailed market valuation and show you how our Design-to-Sell Service Package can help maximize its value. And if you’re looking to buy, we’ll guide you with the right strategy to find and secure the home you’ve been searching for. With a unique blend of real estate, design, and construction expertise, we’re here to help you achieve and exceed their goals.
