Ice cream season is back in Philadelphia, and Old City is ready to celebrate! Franklin Ice Cream Bar opens for the season on Saturday, May 2, with a special custard giveaway at 112 Market Street on Confectionery Row. The first 50 customers can grab a free baby cone of their famous frozen custard starting at 2:00 p.m. Flavors include vanilla bean, chocolate, and twist. This giveaway has become a cherished tradition, marking the arrival of spring and summer just steps from The Franklin Fountain.
Franklin Ice Cream Bar, which opened in 2018, offers a quick and tasty alternative to The Franklin Fountain, located just two doors down. It’s perfect for locals who want to skip the long lines while still enjoying high-quality custard and ice cream. The shop is open seasonally from May through Labor Day, featuring to-go options and exclusive items not available at the main shop.
This year’s menu includes classic favorites and exciting new treats. You can enjoy thick vanilla and chocolate custard, rotating Keystone Bars, ice cream sandwiches, cakes, pints, and a variety of vegan and gluten-free options. One highlight is the design-your-own Keystone Bar, where you pick your ice cream flavor, dip it in chocolate, and add toppings like candied jalapeños or caramel drizzle.
New flavors for 2026 include Strawberry Matcha Keystone Bars, Cherry Pie Ice Cream, and Root Beer Ice Sorbet. The shop will also feature experimental flavors inspired by The Franklin Fountain’s popular ice cream flights.
Opening weekend hours are Saturday from 4:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. and Sunday from 3:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. The Franklin Fountain next door is open daily from 11:00 a.m. to midnight. Don’t miss the chance to kick off summer with a free custard cone!
