Discover Puerto Rico, the Destination Marketing Organization (DMO) for the Island, is collaborating with Van Leeuwen Ice Cream to celebrate National Piña Colada Day on July 10 across its New York City locations.
Honoring the rich heritage of the Piña Colada, which originated in Puerto Rico and is claimed by the famed Caribe Hilton, this celebration marks the 70th anniversary of the iconic drink and Van Leeuwen's first-ever collaboration with a destination.
To commemorate this special occasion, Van Leeuwen's expert team, alongside Discover Puerto Rico, Puerto Rican mixologist Roberto Berdecia and Don Q rum, have crafted an exclusive Piña Colada ice cream flavor. The limited-edition treat features vibrant packaging designed by talented local artist, Cristina Muñoz Laboy, whose stunning work can be found throughout the Island.
"Bringing the vibrant flavors of Puerto Rico to the streets of New York City with this exclusive Piña Colada ice cream is a true celebration of our Island's rich heritage and culture," said Leah Chandler, CMO of Discover Puerto Rico. "In collaboration with Van Leeuwen Ice Cream, we are thrilled to share a scoop of paradise, melding the legacy of Puerto Rico's beloved cocktail with delicious creativity. By infusing the expertise of local mixologist Roberto Berdecia and the artistic vision of Cristina Muñoz Laboy, every spoonful promises an authentic taste of Puerto Rico. We can't wait for New Yorkers to experience the tropical magic and rich cultural tapestry of Puerto Rico with us!"
On July 10, The Discover Puerto Rico and Van Leeuwen Ice Cream truck will tour New York City, distributing free scoops of the Piña Colada flavor and offering branded merchandise. For those who can't catch the truck, pints will be available for purchase at most Van Leeuwen NYC locations (except for Hudson Yards, Union Square, Grand Central, 97th & Broadway, and Roosevelt Field) while supplies last.
"We are excited to partner with Discover Puerto Rico to create an exclusive flavor that pays homage to the beloved cocktail and celebrates the Island's beautiful culture," said Ben Van Leeuwen, co-founder and CEO of Van Leeuwen Ice Cream.
