Rita’s Italian Ice announced all 600 stores will open for the season across the country by Thursday, March 13. Rita’s stores are gearing up for their annual First Day of Spring Free Italian Ice giveaway, which takes place Thursday, March 20 at all Rita’s locations. Since 1992, Rita’s has celebrated the First Day of Spring by giving cups of its Italian Ice to millions of fans; in fact, more than 10 million free cups of Italian Ice have been given away over the years.

This year Rita’s will celebrate its 22nd Annual First Day of Spring Free Ice Giveaway and debut its newest flavor and cobranded sensation, Starburst Cherry Italian Ice, made fresh at all locations beginning at noon, Monday, March 17. The new Starburst Cherry Italian Ice is the second flavor Rita’s cobranded with the popular Starburst brand. Last year Rita’s cobranded sensation Starburst Strawberry Italian Ice was so popular, over a million cups were sold. Another flavor coming April 7 to the Rita’s family line-up is Starburst Orange Italian Ice.

“With all Rita’s stores opening by Thursday, it’s time to ‘Get Rita’s and Get Happy,’” says Jeff Moody, chief executive officer for Rita’s Italian Ice. “Rita’s is gearing up for our 22nd annual Free Italian Ice giveaway and we’re excited to debut our new Starburst Cherry Italian Ice to millions of fans.”

In celebration of this 22nd annual milestone, all Guests who visit any Rita’s Italian Ice on the first day of spring, March 20, will receive a free Ice in the available flavor of their choice, served in a limited-edition First Day of Spring cup. Rita’s Guests can choose from a selection of over 65 flavors of the Italian Ice made daily, including the new Starburst Cherry Italian Ice. On the first day of spring, all members of Rita’s Rewards, Rita’s mobile loyalty program, will receive a free punch towards earning free treats. The Rita’s Ice app is available for Apple and Android devices and can be downloaded in the App Store or Google Play Store.