PHARR – Anyone in the Rio Grande Valley knows how hot it can get in the area. It’s the time of year we all start looking for our favorite raspa stand.

The Icy Wizard in Pharr may be the oldest raspa stand in the Valley.

“Originally, it was Mr. Havins, (owned by) Mr. Billy Havins. They’re the ones that started the business in the ‘60s. In total, it’s been 51 years,” said current Icy Wizard owner, Steve Martinez.

Martinez bought the business 16 years ago.

The Icy Wizard is located on Business 83 in middle of the City of Pharr.

The original stand was a lot smaller and went by the name, “Sno-Wiz”. Martinez still possesses the original business sign.

Of course, the flavor selection has grown over the years, along with their customers. Their early customers have not forgotten about them either and still make their way back every year.

Even his kids grew up in the business. One of his sons is now the manager.

“It’s been quite some time but since I was 10 years old I’ve been around this area with the raspas. I’m 26 now,” said Martinez’s son, Fabian Martinez.

The father and son believe that strawberry and pink leche are their customers’ favorite flavors, because those may be their favorites as well.

There is a drive-thru with two windows and two other windows for walk-up customers to place their order.

Customer, Maritza Medina expressed that she likes stopping by after she washes her car at the carwash next door to the stand. Her favorite flavor is rainbow with ice cream.

Icy Wizard is open year round, but summer is always their busiest time.

It’s summer time in the Valley and when it’s hot outside, of course, you go on a raspa run.