One of the most beloved area traditions returns with spring today as area Rita's Italian Ice locations give out free water ice.
The 22nd Annual First Day of Spring Celebration normally draws long lines to Rita's locations throughout the Philadelphia region as people yearn for a taste of spring -- even if the temperatures make it still feel more like winter.
“We are excited to celebrate... and welcome our guests to enjoy their first taste of spring on us,” said Rita’s Chief Executive Officer Jeff Moody.
This year, an iconic candy is getting the water ice treatment from the Trevose, Pa.-based business.
“We invite everyone to come try our new STARBURST® Cherry Ice, enter our photo contest and ‘Tweet Your Treat’!”
Rita's social media push includes asking water ice fans to post "First Taste of Spring" photos to the company's Instagram (@RitasIce) and Twitter (@RitasItalianIce) accounts with the chance to win a free year of water ice. Even if you miss out on free water ice you can still enter the contest since it runs through midnight Sunday.
Click here to find the nearest Rita's to you.
Rita’s, isn’t the only company giving it away for the first day of spring.
Area Dunkin’ Donuts stores are giving away a free cup of coffee to customers with the mobile app.
In honor of City 6 schools St. Joseph’s and Villanova playing in the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament, the doughnut shop is holding a “Philly’s in, You Win” promo.
Any coffee lover who has the app will see a coupon for a free 14-ounce hot coffee or 24-ounce iced coffee.
"As an official partner of six local teams, we wanted to do something special for the passionate college basketball fans in our region as the postseason begins," said Dunkin' Brands field marketing manager Lou Conte. "We congratulate our Philly area college partners for an exciting season and we wish St. Joe’s and Villanova the best of luck as they continue on through March."