FOOD
March 20 is the official first day of spring, and companies such as Rita’s Italian Ice and Dairy Queen, are celebrating by offering deals and freebies for its customers.
The first day of spring represents the vernal equinox in the Northern Hemisphere, an astronomical event that occurs when the sun aligns with the Earth’s equator.
In the Southern Hemisphere, on the other hand, it is known as the autumnal equinox and represents the beginning of fall. During this time, the Southern Hemisphere begins to tilt away from the sun, resulting in cooler weather and shorter days.
If you’re looking to start off your spring by treating yourself to some ice cream or a beverage, here’s what you need to know.
When is the first day of spring 2025? What to know about the vernal equinox
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Rita’s Italian Ice offering free Italian ice on March 20
Rita’s Italian Ice & Frozen Custard is continuing its annual tradition of giving away free Italian ice on the first day of spring this year.
Customers who visit a Rita’s location on March 20 will receive a free 6-ounce Italian ice in the available flavor of their choice, the company said, including the chain’s newest flavor: Skittles Italian Ice.
Additionally, customers who use the Rita’s Ice App can enter for a chance to win free Italian ice for a year by entering the promo code “FDOS25” under the “offers” tab.
Dairy Queen’s Free Cone Day is on March 20
Dairy Queen’s annual Free Cone Day is Thursday and participating locations across the country are offering customers one free small vanilla cone.
The cones are available while supplies last, limited to one per customer, and free cones are not available for delivery through the DQ Rewards mobile app.
This year, Dairy Queen is partnering with Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals for Free Cone Day. Choose to dip your cone in one of Dairy Queen’s dipped coatings for $1 and the fast food chain will donate the dollar to Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals.
Get 3x points in Dunkin’ Rewards app on March 20 when you order refreshers
Dunkin’ Rewards members can earn 3x points on Dunkin’ Refreshers on March 20 in honor of the first day of spring, including the Raspberry Watermelon Dunkin’ Refresher.
Rewards Members must activate the offer prior to placing the order and bonus points are eligible on Dunkin’ Refresher items only.
Baskin-Robbins offers discounted smoothies, Mangonada on March 20
Baskin-Robbins customers can celebrate the arrival of spring on Thursday with discounted smoothies, milkshakes, and limited-time Mangonadas.
The company is offering customers a small smoothie or Mangonada for $5, a medium for $6, and a large for $7.
Get a $1 iced beverage at Jamba on March 20
Jamba has unveiled its new “Over Ice” line of iced drinks, and to celebrate the new beverages and also celebrate the first day of spring, the company is offering customers a sweet deal.
Jamba is offering customers $1 iced beverages on March 20 from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m. local time at participating locations. The offer is only valid in-stores for a small iced beverage in the Mangomorphosis or Dragonberry Blitz flavors.
Gabe Hauari is a national trending news reporter at USA TODAY. You can follow him on X @GabeHauari or email him at [email protected].
