Carmen’s Italian Ice is celebrating a major milestone this year, marking 25 years of serving a beloved taste of summer that has become a tradition for families across Montgomery County.

On Monday, Carmen’s Italian Ice shared the news on social media with a message that perfectly captured the moment: “Has it really been 25 years? I never could’ve imagined! Thank you!” To celebrate, Carmen’s is turning the anniversary into a yearlong event. On the 25th of every month, customers can enjoy 25 percent off all menu items. The kickoff celebration takes place this Wednesday at the Rockville location. As part of the fun, names of the day Marshall and Ryder are invited to stop by for a free gelati. There is also seasonal excitement ahead, with the Olney location opening March 8.

Founded in 2001, Carmen’s began with the simple goal of introducing homemade, gourmet Italian ice to the Washington DC area. Owner Jason Mandler, a native of Parsippany, New Jersey, brought inspiration from Philadelphia and South Jersey, where Italian ice has long been a neighborhood staple. What started as a single shop in Rockville quickly grew into a local favorite, known for personal service, fun events, and a welcoming atmosphere that keeps customers coming back year after year.

Carmen’s is best known for its Italian ice and frozen custard, offering more than 60 flavors of Italian ice alongside fresh frozen custard. The most popular menu item is the gelati, which layers Italian ice with creamy custard. The menu also includes specialty shakes and freezes, from thick custard-based milkshakes to lighter blends that mix Italian ice and custard with a liquid base. Over time, the offerings have expanded, but the focus on house-made quality has remained unchanged.

That consistency, paired with a strong sense of community, has helped Carmen’s thrive for a quarter century. Whether someone stops in for a morning coffee or an evening treat, the shops have become places where regulars gather and new faces quickly feel like part of the neighborhood.

Today, Carmen’s Italian Ice operates five locations across Montgomery County:

• Rockville, MD 1115 Nelson Street Rockville, MD 20850, 301-545-1154

• Olney, MD 3233 Spartan Road, Olney, MD 20832, 240-390-3164

• Kensington, MD, 309 Kensington Parkway, Kensington, MD 20895, 301-235-9860

• The Kentlands, Gaithersburg, 130 Market Street, Gaithersburg, MD 20878, 240-477-8017

• Clarksburg, MD, 23329 Frederick Road, Clarksburg, MD 20871, 240-913-8555

The Prince of Wales has told of his “immense sadness” after 25-year-old Lucy Wilde's death.

Proponents say relaxed uniforms make life easier for children and are much more practical for physical play.

Legions of fans from around the world have been cheering on Punch, a 7-month-old macaque who had been struggling to socialize at a zoo outside Tokyo.

Osaka's mayor says he is 'lost for words' and that he has 'nothing but appreciation' for the gesture.