Pelican's SnoBalls are a specific brand of shaved ice product sold in New Orleans
Pelican's SnoBalls are shaved ice desserts made and sold by Pelican's Snowball, a company based in New Orleans, Louisiana. They consist of finely shaved ice topped with flavored syrups, condensed milk, and other toppings. The product is sold at physical locations in the New Orleans area and through some online retailers, though availability outside Louisiana is limited.
The brand has been operating in New Orleans since the 1960s and remains a regional product rather than a nationwide chain. If you live outside the New Orleans area, you may not find Pelican's SnoBalls at local shops, though some people order them online during cooler months for shipping.
Key Takeaways
- Pelican's SnoBalls are a regional New Orleans brand sold primarily at physical locations in Louisiana.
- The product combines shaved ice with flavored syrups and toppings like condensed milk and fruit.
- Online ordering is available but limited by shipping restrictions and seasonal closures.
- Prices and flavor options vary by location and season.
Where to find Pelican's SnoBalls in person
Pelican's Snowball operates multiple locations throughout the New Orleans area, primarily in neighborhoods like the French Quarter, Mid-City, and surrounding parishes. Each location sells the same core products but may have slightly different hours and seasonal availability.
The easiest way to find a current location is to visit the Pelican's Snowball website or call ahead, since store hours and operating seasons can change. Many snowball shops in New Orleans operate seasonally, closing during winter months when demand drops. Pelican's locations typically open in spring and close in fall, though some year-round locations may exist.
What flavors and toppings are available
Pelican's SnoBalls come in dozens of flavor combinations. Common flavors include cherry, grape, strawberry, blue raspberry, and cream flavors. You can order a single flavor or request a mix of two or more flavors in one snowball.
Standard toppings include condensed milk (a thick, sweet topping drizzled over the ice), evaporated milk, and various syrups. Some locations offer add-ons like fresh fruit, chocolate syrup, or specialty ingredients. The exact menu varies by location, so asking what is available when you order is the best way to see your options.
How to order online
Pelican's Snowball offers online ordering through its website for delivery or pickup at participating locations. You select your flavor combination, choose your toppings, and pay through the website. Pickup is typically available within a few hours during operating season.
Shipping outside the New Orleans area is available but comes with limitations. Shaved ice melts during transport, so shipped orders arrive as a syrup concentrate that you mix with shaved ice at home. Shipping is only offered during cooler months to reduce melting. Shipping costs are higher than in-store prices, and delivery times vary depending on your location.
Pricing and size options
Pelican's SnoBalls are priced by size, with small, medium, and large options available at most locations. Exact prices vary by location and have changed over time, so calling ahead or checking the website gives you current pricing. A small snowball typically costs less than a large one, and specialty toppings may add to the base price.
If you order online for pickup, prices are usually the same as in-store. If you order for shipping, expect to pay significantly more due to packaging and delivery costs.
Seasonal availability and hours
Most Pelican's SnoBalls locations operate seasonally, opening in late spring (typically April or May) and closing in early fall (typically September or October). Hours vary by location but are usually afternoon and evening, since snowballs are typically eaten as a dessert or afternoon treat.
During the off-season, some locations close entirely, while others may operate on limited hours or by special request. If you are planning a visit, check the website or call ahead to confirm the location is open and to learn current hours.
How Pelican's SnoBalls compare to other shaved ice brands
Pelican's is one of several regional snowball brands in New Orleans. Other local brands include Kermit's Snowball Stand and various independent shops. The main differences are location, flavor selection, and topping options. Pelican's has been around longer than many competitors and has a strong reputation in the city.
If you cannot reach a Pelican's location, other New Orleans snowball shops offer similar products with comparable pricing and flavor variety. The experience is largely the same across brands — shaved ice with syrup and toppings — though each shop has its own flavor specialties and loyal customers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I order Pelican's SnoBalls if I don't live in New Orleans?
You can order online for shipping, but the product arrives as a syrup concentrate rather than prepared shaved ice, since ice melts during transport. You mix the concentrate with shaved ice at home. Shipping is only available during cooler months and costs significantly more than in-store purchases.
What is the difference between condensed milk and evaporated milk toppings?
Condensed milk is thick and very sweet, made by removing water from milk and adding sugar. Evaporated milk is also concentrated but has less sugar and a thinner consistency. Both are drizzled over the shaved ice. Condensed milk is the more traditional New Orleans snowball topping.
Are Pelican's SnoBalls open year-round?
Most locations close during winter months and reopen in spring. Some locations may stay open year-round or operate on limited hours during off-season, but this varies. Call ahead or check the website to confirm hours before visiting.
Can I customize my snowball with multiple flavors?
Yes. You can order a snowball with two or more flavors mixed together. Tell the staff which flavors you want, and they will combine them in one snowball. This is a common way to order and costs the same as a single-flavor snowball.
What payment methods does Pelican's accept?
Payment methods vary by location. Most accept cash and card, but calling ahead confirms what a specific location takes. Online orders typically accept credit and debit cards through the website.