Le Mars, Iowa: The Ice Cream Capital of the World
Le Mars, Iowa, is a town that truly lives and breathes ice cream. It's not just a fondness for the frozen treat, but a deep-rooted connection to the industry that has earned it the official title of the Ice Cream Capital of the World. Since 1994, Le Mars has been home to Wells Enterprises Inc., the world's largest producer of ice cream novelties in a single location. Each year, Wells churns out around 150 million gallons of ice cream, a figure unmatched by any other city globally.
The impact of ice cream is visible everywhere in Le Mars. From the 50 larger-than-life ice cream cone sculptures lining the streets to the Wells Visitor Centre & Ice Cream Parlour, which has become both a local landmark and a destination for ice cream lovers nationwide, the town is a testament to the production, pride, and celebration of the frozen treat.
The town's annual Ice Cream Days festival, held every June, is a celebration of community, nostalgia, and, of course, ice cream. During the festival, the Wells team hands out nearly 8,000 novelty ice cream treats, and the legendary Wells Ice Cream Parlour becomes the heart of the action, offering more than 30+ flavours and a peek into the company's rich history.
The festival features a range of activities, including an old-fashioned ice cream social, classic car show, live music, a family bike ride, and a town-wide scavenger hunt. The following days bring outdoor movies, a community theatre show, creative rock art, the quirky Waffle Cone Warrior Court, and the high-energy Ice Cream Bash concert. The grand finale is a bustling carnival, festive parade, live entertainment, and plenty of ice cream.
Le Mars is a must-visit for ice cream lovers, with the Wells Visitor Centre & Ice Cream Parlour offering a chance to sample 30+ flavours, and the town's giant ice cream cone sculptures providing a unique backdrop for family photos. The town's shops and colourful murals also add to the charm, making it a delightful destination for a summer road trip.
So, if you're thinking about a summer road trip, consider adding Le Mars to your list. With its rich history, delicious ice cream, and festive atmosphere, it's a town that truly lives and breathes ice cream.
