Rita’s Italian Ice will host a grand opening for its first Fresno store with $1 Italian Ice and $2 Gelatis all day Thursday.

Dubbed as the world’s largest Italian ice concept with more than 600 stores, including a Clovis location, Rita’s Fresno location is at 1102 E. Champlain Drive.

It is the first location for franchisee Eric Sha.

“After trying Mango Italian Ice on a trip to Houston, I was immediately hooked and fell in love with Rita’s ‘cool treats’,” said Sha in a statement. “I’m excited to bring Italian Ice, Frozen Custard and Happiness to a new community within the Central Valley.”
 
The store has also created 10 new jobs in the area, and will be accepting monetary donations during the May 25 celebration to benefit March of Dimes.

The first 50 guests in line who bring a monetary donation and sign up for the Rita’s Birthday Club will win free Italian ice for a year.

The event is listed on the store’s Facebook location as running from 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.

“We couldn’t be more excited to bring Rita’s Italian Ice to Fresno and we’re delighted that Eric has chosen to share his love for our ‘cool treats’ with Fresno County,” said John Small, senior vice president for brand development & supply chain for Rita’s, in a statement. “The Central Valley has enthusiastically welcomed our brand as their own, and we’re confident that Rita’s will soon become a fan favorite in Fresno as well.”