The History of Rainbow Snow

If you’ve ever enjoyed a refreshing cup of shaved ice on a hot summer day, chances are you’ve experienced the joy of Rainbow Snow. But did you know that Rainbow Snow has a history spanning more than four decades?

From humble beginnings to becoming a beloved brand with a nationwide franchise model, Rainbow Snow was built on a foundation of fun, flavor, and family. Let’s take a colorful journey through the history of Rainbow Snow and see how it became the brand it is today.

Where it All Began

Rainbow Snow was founded in the early 1980s by Michele and Scott Van Leeuwen in Salt Lake City, Utah. In fact, the couple opened their very first Rainbow Snow stand on the eve of their wedding, a true labor of love from the start.

What set Rainbow Snow apart was its bright presentation, unforgettable flavors, and family-focused atmosphere. For locals, it quickly became more than just a treat, it became a tradition. Families would stop by after school, cool down on hot summer evenings, and create memories that carried on year after year.

Growth Through the Years

By the mid-1990s, Rainbow Snow had grown into one of the largest shaved ice brands in the country, with more than 200 locations nationwide. A number of those original locations are still in operation today, continuing to serve their communities with the same bright flavors and playful spirit that started it all.

One of the brand’s longest-standing operators is in Santa Fe, New Mexico, where Brittany carries on the Rainbow Snow tradition with her own community of loyal customers. Stories like hers are part of what makes Rainbow Snow’s history so special and PROOF that when something is built on joy, it lasts.

A New Era

In 2023, Rainbow Snow entered a new era when Eric and Ali Rasmussen acquired the brand. Having grown up with Rainbow Snow in Sioux City, Eric spotted three legacy units come up for sale and decided to purchase them. That spark turned into something much bigger, a vision to honor Rainbow Snow’s nostalgic roots while creating a modern, streamlined path for new entrepreneurs to join the family.

We like to say we are officially in our Rainbow Snow Era. Now, with the launch of the Arco, a custom-built shaved ice trailer designed to make operations simple, mobile, and fun, we are bringing Rainbow Snow to the next generation of ownership and opportunity.

Today, Rainbow Snow is re-launching nationwide as a franchise, giving entrepreneurs everywhere the chance to step into their own Rainbow Snow Era and share in the joy that started decades ago.

Ready to Be Part of History?

Rainbow Snow’s history is colorful, and its future is even brighter. If you’re looking for a business that combines nostalgia, community impact, and strong unit economics, Rainbow Snow is the perfect fit.

📞 Book a call with our team and take the first step toward owning your very own Rainbow Snow!