Now that it’s summer, it’s the right season for ice cream—and the Vancouver Ice Cream Festival knows it well, as it is back again for its second edition this year. Running from now until August 4, this year’s festival features 33 local businesses from all over Metro Vancouver, each offering unique ice cream flavours and treats that will have you drooling. Read on to find out what I tried at this year’s festival.

Vegan Chai Tea Gelato from Koko Monk Chocolates

I’m usually a little skeptical of places that serve chai as most places tend to water it down so much that you can barely taste the spices. But I needn’t have worried—Koko Monk’s chai gelato fully embraces the cinnamon, cardamom and ginger while also balancing it out with a tinge of sweetness so it doesn’t get too overwhelming. The gelato is also served with the chocolatier’s signature dark chocolate, which creates a rich yet warm combination that you simply can’t get enough of. kokomonk.com

Address: 2883 W Broadway; Tuesday–Sunday 12 p.m.–8 p.m.

Pineapple Cake from Soft Peaks Ice Cream

Soft Peaks returns to the festival this year with a special Pineapple Cake soft serve. The ice cream parlour’s signature milk soft serve is drizzled with a generous amount of tangy pineapple sauce as well as a housemade butter cookie. Don’t just eat the soft serve—dig your spoon to the bottom of the cup and you’ll be treated to a mouthful of pineapple cake coulis filling that’s also made fresh in-house. If T&T’s pineapple cakes are your usual go-to, you won’t want to miss out on this Asian-influenced sweet treat. 

Address: 25 Alexander Street; Daily 12 p.m.–10 p.m.

Strawberry Dubai Chocolate Sundae from Uno Gelato

The viral Dubai Chocolate has made its way to our shores, and first-time Ice Cream Festival vendor Uno Gelato has turned the decadent chocolate bar into a decadent ice cream sundae. Think juicy strawberries, a rich and creamy chocolate gelato and lots of pistachio sauce. If that wasn’t enough, crispy golden kataifi and crushed pistachios are added for an extra crunch. unogelato.com 

Kitsilano: 2579 W Broadway; Daily 12p.m.–10p.m.

Waterfront: #36-1055 Canada Place; Monday–Thursday 11 a.m.–11 p.m., Friday–Sunday 10 a.m.–11 p.m.

False Creek: 601 Stamps Landing; Sunday–Thursday 12 p.m.–10:30 p.m.

Nanaimo Bar Kooky Ice Cream Sandwich and Ice Cream Float from Chocolats Favoris

Chocolats Favoris joins the list of stores participating in the Ice Cream Festival this year, and they did not disappoint. The ice cream sandwich consists of soft vanilla ice cream nestled between two chewy triple chocolate cookies (you can also opt for the dulce de leche cookies). This decadent treat is dipped in Nanaimo bar-flavoured milk chocolate and topped with coconut—it tastes as good as it looks. Those looking for something more refreshing can opt for the ice cream float, where a sweet fruity slushie is topped with either vanilla ice cream or a vegan raspberry sorbet. chocolatsfavoris.com 

Address: 14 Water Street; Sunday–Thursday 10:30 a.m.–11 p.m., Friday–Saturday 10:30 a.m.–12 a.m.

Yuzu x Black Tea Parfait from Nana’s Green Tea

Beat the heat with this refreshing parfait from Nana’s Green Tea. The lemon sorbet is topped with a sweet yet light yuzu juice, and is paired with a mildly bitter black tea jelly and chewy shiratama balls. Dig deeper and you’ll find a creamy vanilla soft serve—two ice creams in one! Have a parfait all to yourself if your sweet tooth demands it, but I recommend sharing it with a friend or two so you can also get one of Nana’s signature matchas without having to unbutton your jeans. sevenleavestea.com 

Address: 159 W 4th Ave; Daily 8:30 a.m.–12 a.m.