Rainbow Cone turns 100 with summer-long Chicago celebrations

For generations of Chicagoans, summer hasn't officially arrived until they've taken a bite of a Rainbow Cone. Now, the iconic South Side institution is preparing to celebrate a milestone few businesses ever reach: its 100th anniversary.

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Founded in 1926 by Joe and Katherine Sapp in Chicago's Beverly neighborhood, The Original Rainbow Cone has spent a century serving its signature five-flavor creation, a colorful stack of chocolate, strawberry, Palmer House, pistachio and orange sherbet sliced onto a cone instead of scooped. What began as a neighborhood ice cream stand has evolved into one of Chicago's most recognizable food brands, while remaining rooted in the traditions that made it famous. 

To mark its centennial year, Rainbow Cone is rolling out a summer-long celebration packed with public events, community partnerships, special promotions and interactive experiences across Chicagoland. 

One of the largest activations will take place in partnership with the Museum of Ice Cream Chicago. From July 18 through Aug. 3, visitors will be able to explore a special Rainbow Cone-themed experience highlighting the brand's century-long history. The collaboration launches during National Ice Cream Weekend, July 18-19, with a public activation at Pioneer Court along Michigan Avenue. A Rainbow Cone truck will serve special $5 Rainbow Cones while guests can enjoy photo opportunities and interactive installations inspired by the museum's famous sprinkle pool.

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Inside the museum, guests will find a two-room exhibit featuring storytelling, sensory experiences, historical displays and plenty of opportunities to sample the beloved frozen treat. The exhibit is designed to showcase both the history of the company and the enduring appeal of Chicago's most colorful cone.

Rainbow Cone is also taking its celebration on the road. Throughout the summer, the company's ice cream trucks will make surprise appearances at community events and nonprofit programs throughout the region as part of its Centennial Summer Surprise Tour. Planned partners include Lookingglass Theatre Company, Pat Mac's Pack and Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, with additional stops and organizations expected to be announced throughout the season.

Sports fans will also have a chance to join the celebration. Rainbow Cone has teamed up with the Chicago White Sox for a season-long "Winning Inning" promotion. The first 15,000 fans attending White Sox home games will receive a special game card. If the Sox score in the fourth inning, cardholders can redeem it for a free small Rainbow Cone at participating Chicagoland locations.

The festivities culminate around the company's official 100th birthday on Aug. 9. Rewards members will receive a buy-one-get-one Rainbow Cone offer from Aug. 3 through Aug. 9, and the celebration will return to its roots at the original Beverly location. Guests purchasing a Rainbow Cone that day can spin a prize wheel for giveaways ranging from free treats and branded merchandise to a private Rainbow Cone truck party valued at $1,000. 

While the company has expanded far beyond its original South Side storefront, Rainbow Cone's centennial celebration serves as a reminder of its enduring connection to Chicago. One hundred years after opening its doors, the family-founded business continues to bring generations together, one colorful slice at a time.