Cooling Down with a Philadelphia Classic
Summer at the Disneyland Resort is about to get a whole lot cooler and much more colorful. While Downtown Disney has been undergoing a massive transformation lately, one of the most anticipated additions is finally ready for its big debut. Happy Ice, the fan-favorite Philadelphia-style Italian ice brand, is officially opening its permanent location on June 19, 2026.
If you have spent any time in Los Angeles over the last few years, you likely recognize the vibrant rainbow trucks. This opening is a significant milestone for the Downtown Disney District, as Happy Ice becomes the first permanent Black-owned dessert company to set up shop in the district’s history. It is a fitting launch date, coinciding with Juneteenth, and the brand is planning a celebration to match the occasion.
What is Philadelphia Water Ice?
For those who have not had the pleasure, Happy Ice serves a specific treat known as Water Ice. It is not quite a snow cone and not quite a sorbet. Instead, it features a smooth, rich, and almost creamy texture that mimics ice cream while remaining entirely vegan and dairy-free. This makes it an incredible option for families looking for refreshing treats that accommodate dietary restrictions without sacrificing flavor.
The Downtown Disney cart will feature an all-natural menu. This is a big win for parents, as the recipes use real fruit and pure cane sugar, completely skipping the high-fructose corn syrup and artificial dyes often found in theme park snacks. You can expect signature swirls of red, blue, and yellow that look just as good as they taste.
Must-Try Menu Highlights
While the standard water ice is the star of the show, the JOY-LATI is what really has people talking. This layered dessert combines the signature Philadelphia Italian ice with a vanilla sweet cream and various sauces. Think of it as an elevated parfait with nostalgic flavor profiles like Banana Pudding and Strawberry Shortcake. For those wanting something strictly fruit-forward, look for specialty flavors like Berry Bonanza and Cloud 9.
- All-Natural Ingredients: No artificial dyes or corn syrup.
- Dietary Friendly: The water ice itself is vegan and gluten-free.
- Rotating Exclusives: Keep an eye out for monthly limited-time flavors.
Grand Opening Details and Giveaways
If you are planning to be at the Disneyland Resort this Friday, you might want to head to Downtown Disney early. The cart officially opens at 11:00 AM and will stay open until 11:00 PM. To celebrate the grand opening on June 19, Happy Ice is offering some sweet perks for early birds:
- The first 50 guests to order will receive a free Happy Ice T-shirt.
- The next 50 guests will receive a free branded tote bag.
You can find the new cart located on the west end of the district. It is the perfect spot to grab a snack while you explore the new shops or wait for your dining reservation at Paseo or Centrico. Whether you are a local who has followed Lemeir Mitchell’s journey from a single food truck or a visitor looking for the newest treat in Anaheim, Happy Ice is a must-visit this summer.
Disclaimer: This information is gathered from various online sources and news outlets. While we strive for accuracy, Disney plans and policies can change rapidly. We recommend double-checking official Disney sources for the most up-to-date information before making final travel plans.