Ice cream lovers in Penticton have something to cheer about! Tickleberry’s has officially opened a new location on Lakeshore Drive as of May 23, kicking off the 2025 season.
This shop, a beloved part of the Okanagan community since the late 1980s, now makes its home in the historic Penticton Peach building. The city awarded Tickleberry’s a licence-to-use agreement earlier this spring, paving the way for this exciting expansion.
Penticton Mayor Julius Bloomfield expressed enthusiasm about the new addition, stating, “This is a business and location that are meant to be together. It shows we are a vibrant community.”
Tickleberry’s also has locations in Okanagan Falls and downtown Penticton, where it’s popular throughout the summer, even setting up at Skaha Lake beach.
Kelsey Hoy, who owns the 35-year-old business, is excited about the new spot. “We’re a natural fit for this location. People love ice cream, and it’s perfect for the beach!” she said.
The shop took over from Family Squeezed Lemonade, which had operated the concession stand for two years. In February, city officials sought a new operator to run the beach concession stand for three to five years, with fees around $2,500 annually. This fee helps maintain the building and equipment, ensuring everything runs smoothly for visitors.
Initially, Tickleberry’s will be open from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on weekends until Father’s Day, after which it’ll welcome guests every day from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. The added convenience means more opportunities to enjoy a scoop of creamy goodness.
Recent surveys show that specialty ice cream shops, like Tickleberry’s, are thriving. The rise in demand for locally made ice cream reflects a growing trend in supporting small businesses, with 70% of consumers expressing a preference for local products over larger chains. This attention to community impact is why many are excited about Tickleberry’s expansion.
By combining tradition with a stunning beachfront location, Tickleberry’s not only brings joy to ice cream fans but also shows how local businesses can enhance the community spirit.
Source link
ice cream|Penticton