What frozen lemonade brand was established in Cranston, Rhode Island, in 1948? It was Del’s.
Del’s is a frozen lemonade brand founded by the DeLucia family. The first Del’s Lemonade stand opened in Cranston, Rhode Island, in 1948, helping turn the drink into a recognizable Rhode Island summer tradition.
Unlike bottled lemonade, Del’s is served as a semi-frozen mixture containing lemon, water, and sugar. Its texture comes from ice crystals that remain suspended in the drink, so it is commonly eaten or sipped with a straw. The mixture is often associated with warm-weather stands, festivals, beaches, and outdoor events across southern New England.
The brand’s name is connected to founder DeLeo “Del” DeLucia. The family’s lemonade tradition traces back to Italy, where a frozen lemon drink was prepared before the American business began. Del’s should not be confused with a Slurpee or an ordinary frozen soft drink: its defining flavor and identity come from tart lemon juice and a granular, icy texture.