SNOWBALLS
Snowballs or ice cream , ice cream or snowballs — it ’ s a debate almost as old as Baltimore itself , and one its residents take very seriously . While our local vendors make their case below , we encourage you to hold your verdict until after the taste test . You may even want to try a couple flavors — for research purposes , of course .
SNOWBALLS
ICE QUEENS Located in Locust Point , this Black- and womanowned snowball stand is famous for its New Orleans-style shaved ice and vegan-friendly flavors . Owner Dasia Kavia is driven by a desire to spread joy and inspire other young entrepreneurs . “ It ’ s so much fun to create flavor combinations and see people walk away with a smile ,” she says . “ It ’ s like being a kid all over again !” With more than 140 flavors to choose from , Kavia says it ’ s impossible to pick a summer go-to : “ Everything is my favorite !” Instagram . com /_ icequeens
JUSTIN TSUCALAS
SHOP
QUALITY SNOWBALLS Ask Quality Snowballs co-owner Chad Gauss why he sells snowballs and he ’ ll tell you they ’ re Charm City staples : “ It ’ s a great item that the whole community can enjoy for a reasonable price — every Baltimore neighborhood needs a snowball stand !” As for what flavor your first-ever snowball should be , Gauss says it ’ s a no-brainer . “ Egg custard with marshmallow ,” he says , “ because Baltimore does crab cakes , football and egg custard snowballs .” Instagram . com / qualitysnowballs
20 BALTIMORE . ORG
JUSTIN TSUCALAS
WALTHER GARDENS As the oldest snowball stand in the Baltimore region , Walther Gardens has had a lot of time to hone its craft . Owner Matthew Wittek happened upon the property in 2014 and has since committed himself to upholding the stand ’ s legacy . His go-to summer flavor is pear , thanks to the fond memories he has of eating fresh pears with his neighbors as a child , but he says you can ' t go wrong with egg custard . “ It ’ s a Baltimore original !” he says . Enjoy it while you shop the scenic property ’ s fresh-cut flowers , homegrown herbs , restored furniture , skincare products and more . Facebook . com / WaltherGardens