Rita’s is ready to usher in spring just like they always do. The first day of spring is Thursday, and the Pennsylvania-based company will again give away Italian ice to celebrate.
What to Know
- Rita's first day of spring water ice giveaway is back in 2025.
- Rita’s First Day of Spring Giveaway is taking place on Thursday, March 20, 2025.
- Here's the scoop on the free frozen treats in the Philadelphia region and beyond.
The countdown to spring is on, and Philadelphia-area favorite Rita's Italian Ice is ready to welcome the season the only way they know how -- a free water ice giveaway and a brand new candy-inspired flavor.
“For over 30 years, Rita’s First Day of Spring Giveaway has been more than just a tradition—it’s a moment of pure joy and connection that marks the start of a new season with a refreshing cup of Rita’s happiness,” Rita’s Italian Ice & Frozen Custard President and CEO Linda Chadwick said in a statement. “This cherished day highlights the bond between Rita’s and our fans and inspires us to continue innovating with strategic new products."
So, what can free treat seekers expect on the first day of spring 2025:
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Kicking off spring with free water ice
The beloved Pennsylvania-based frozen treats destination (that has spread around the country and even world) is continuing its annual tradition and inviting you to ring in the first day of spring with free Italian ice on Thursday, March 20, 2025.
All you have to do is line up at your local Rita's to get a free 6-ounce cup of water ice.
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About 575 locations are expected to give away about 1 million cups of their signature Italian ice. You can pick from any of the classic flavors or try Rita's newest flavor: Skittles Italian Ice.
What's in Rita's new Skittles water ice?
"We’re thrilled to introduce SKITTLES® to our guests, crafted in Rita’s signature style, and welcome everyone to our shops on March 20 for a free cup of Ice on us," Chadwick said.
Inspired by the taste of the classic candy, enjoy a color collision of fruity flavors with the new Skittles flavor.
And that's not all; Rita's is adding tangy, crunchy Skittles Pop'd freeze-dried candies to their toppings lineup this spring for a limited time.
What's the weather looking like while you stand in line for free water ice?
You might want to grab a rain jacket and umbrella.
Thursday morning fog and drizzle will start the new season on a dreary note that will last through the day, First Alert Weather meteorologist Bill Henley said.
It will be mild with temps in the upper 60s, certainly warm enough to enjoy your favorite flavor.
By late afternoon showers move in, with heavier downpours Thursday night.
Want free water ice and custard all year?
And if one free water ice isn't enough, Rita's is giving its app users the chance to win free Italian ice for a year.
Head to the rewards app and enter promo code "FDOS25” under the “Offers” tab for a chance to win. Giveaway organizers said you can enter to be one of 30 lucky winners from now until 11:59 p.m. PT on Sunday, March 23, 2025.
For more information about Rita’s Italian Ice & Frozen Custard and to find your closest location, visit www.ritasice.com.
And, enjoy that free treat!
