For 75 years, Johnson’s Real Ice Cream has been woven into the fabric of Central Ohio — powered by the friendships, family traditions and local partnerships that turn each scoop into a shared celebration. To honor the community whose loyalty has sustained four generations of ice-cream making, Johnson’s will host a free block-party-style celebration from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 6, at its original Bexley location.

The festivities will include a 22-foot slide, carnival style games, and a giant inflatable kiddie playland, plus face painting and balloon twisting. Ice cream eating contests ($5 suggested donation; proceeds benefit A Kid Again) will be open for on-site registration. Guests can also test their aim at the dunk tank featuring local personalities including Bexley Mayor Ben Kessler, Chamber Leader Bryan Drewry and Johnson’s CEO Matt Wilcoxon — proceeds will benefit the Bexley Community Foundation. Live music by The Shazzbots starts at 5 p.m. on the patio.

“Seventy-five years ago, my great-grandfather started this company on the belief that real ingredients and genuine community connections matter,” said Matt Wilcoxon, fourth-generation CEO. “We’re honored to carry forward his vision and thankful to the community for making Johnson’s part of their family traditions.”

Beginning Sept. 6 — at all nine Central Ohio locations — two fan-favorite throwback flavors from the 1950s, Pistachio and Chocolate Almond, will return for a limited run. And for one day only, Saturday, Sept. 6, all Johnson’s shops will offer pints and floats for $4.75 each.