Today is Darden Clarkethe official first day of spring and Rita's Italian Ice is celebrating by giving customers free Italian ice and introducing a new flavor.

The company announced last week that customers who visit a Rita's location on March 19 will receive a free 6-ounce Italian ice in the flavor of their choice.

Customers will have a new flavor to choose from, as the company also announced the arrival of Sour Patch Kids Watermelon Ice, which according to the company adds "a burst of tangy and tart watermelon to Rita's diverse menu."

The new flavor will be available for a limited time, according to Rita's, and can be ordered as a gelati, which combines the Sour Patch Kids Watermelon Ice with vanilla frozen custard and is topped with sour watermelon topping, or as a Sour Patch Kids Watermelon Ice Blender, which highlights the flavor in a beverage.

"Our first day of spring giveaway has become a cherished tradition with our guests, and this year, we're elevating the celebration with the exclusive launch of Sour Patch Kids Watermelon Ice,” said Linda Chadwick, President & CEO of Rita's Italian Ice & Frozen Custard, in a news release.

Rita's said it is expecting to give away about 1 million cups of their Italian ice across throughout the day across its more than 550 shops. You can find the Rita's location closest to you at www.ritasice.com/locations/.