Belts’ Soft Serve plans opening for 43rd season

By Patrick Lynn

In a true sign of spring, two seasonal soft serve establishments will open in the coming weeks.

Belts’ Soft Serve opens for its 43rd season in business on March 3 at 11 a.m.

Co-owner Cola Racine said the first 25 customers in line will receive the 2023 Belts’ t-shirt, and the first 125 customers get a limited edition opening day pint glass.

Historically, Belts’ has attracted diehard fans who camp out overnight in ice shanties or tents to be among the first in line for the season.

Racine said he’s seen the number of opening day campers ebb and flow over the years, but he’s got no doubt it going to be a busy season.

Belts’, 2140 Division St., is open daily from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Carl D’s Soft Serve opens for its ninth season on March 11 at noon, when the business will give away an Apple watch. The establishment, also a roadside stand, is located at 1232 Park St. near Skipp’s Bowling.

On March 12, the first 20 customers in line will get a chance to win a smart TV.

Carl D’s first opened in 2015 and remains popular for its uncommon soft serve flavors, like pistachio and cake batter, lactose-free soft serve, as well as its flavored popcorn.