By Sara Beth Williams–
Leatherby’s Family Creamery in Citrus Heights has been named the 2026 Small Business of the Year for California’s 7th Assembly District by Assemblyman Josh Hoover, who recognized the family-owned business for its longstanding impact on the Sacramento region through community service, local investment, and decades of family-centered hospitality.
Hoover announced the recognition this week in a letter to constituants, praising the company’s commitment to excellence and its role as a beloved local institution since opening its first location on Arden Way in 1982.
The business was also recognized during the May 27 Citrus Heights City Council meeting, where the city issued a proclamation recognizing Leatherby’s Family Creamery as Small Business of the Year.
Founded by David “Daddy Dave” Leatherby Sr., alongside his father Albert Leatherby and his son David Leatherby Jr., Leatherby’s Family Creamery began as a three-generation family business inspired by the family’s Iowa roots.
Hoover said the business was built on a philosophy centered around kindness, generosity, and respect, values that helped transform the original ice cream shop into one of the Sacramento area’s most recognizable local brands.
Today, Leatherby’s operates five locations throughout the Sacramento region and serves roughly 200,000 customers each month. The business is known for making its food and ice cream fresh daily using family recipes and high-quality ingredients. The Citrus Heights location opened in 1991 at 7910 Antelope Rd.
Hoover highlighted the company’s extensive community involvement and charitable efforts. Leatherby’s employs more than 500 young people and regularly supports local schools, youth sports teams, charities, clubs, and nonprofit organizations throughout the region.
The company also frequently gives out free ice cream and gift certificates.
The Citrus Heights City Council praised the ice cream shop for its local involvement in the community and for creating a welcoming experience for generations of local families.
Many council members commented on enjoying visiting with their families, and on the countless birthday parties, and sports and teams that frequent Leatherby’s.
“Through it’s continued presence and dedication to the community, Leatherby’s exemplifies the local pride, connection and small business spirit that helps shape the character of Citrus Heights,” Vice Mayor Porsche Middleton said Wednesday.
Leatherby’s Family Creamery is located at 7910 Antelope Rd. in Citrus Heights and is open from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Sunday through Thursday, and 11 a.m. to 12 a.m. on Friday and Saturday.
