Dairy Queen is treating fans to free ice cream to kick off the start of spring. On Thursday, March 20, customers can get a free small vanilla cone at participating Dairy Queen restaurants nationwide for Free Cone Day, according to the Minnesota-based burger chain. No purchase is required, except at participating mall locations.

At participating stores, guests can add any dip to their cone for just $1 for a “Dip It for Kids” promo, with all proceeds going directly to local children’s hospitals across the country through the Children’s Miracle Network.

An ice cream cone is a classic treat, but it's nice to step outside the box. Try one of these creative ways to enjoy the creamy, frozen dessert minus the cone.