Fort Collins has new sweet way to cool down. Rita's Italian Ice opens to the public on Saturday in the Harmony Marketplace development at 250 E. Harmony Road. "We think it is just a phenomenal product," said local franchisee John David. "We are excited to fill a very large demand."

The Pennsylvania-based franchise is known for its flavored Italian ice varieties that are mostly made with real fruits — mango, cherry and Swedish Fish are the most popular flavors. The Italian ices are made fresh daily and discarded within 36 hours if not used. In an annual promotion, the chain gives away free Italian ice treats on the first day of spring.