You remember Punch Buggy, right? That backseat childhood game where spotting a VW Bug meant your sibling got a surprise punch in the arm? That was a vibe — unfiltered, silly, slower times. And now, it’s also the name of Old Town Lafayette’s newest obsession, tucked into The Yard right next to Vintrey. An authentic Hawaiian shave ice spot served from a shiny silver Airstream. Laid-back, a little nostalgic, and exactly what you didn’t know you needed this summer.

But this isn’t just a snack stand. It’s a story. A real one.

Kona to Colorado

Meet Neige LaRue — founder, operator, mentor, mom, and force of nature. She grew up in Kona on the Big Island, where authentic shave ice was a daily ritual. Soft as snow, full of vibrant flavor (not dye), and rooted in the Hawaiian and Japanese traditions that shaped it. That’s the spirit she’s bringing to Colorado, true shave ice done with care, culture, and craft.

After moving to the mainland and years of bouncing between coasts, Neige and her family settled in Boulder County. On a return trip to Hawaii, the idea sparked: “Why doesn’t anything like this exist back home?” But it wasn’t until a local outing — where her daughter’s friend with allergies couldn’t find a single safe dessert — that the spark turned into a flame.

Neige saw an opportunity to build something better: inclusive, natural, and safe… a treat every kid could enjoy without hesitation. “I wanted to create something moms like me could feel good about letting their kids have — as often as they want.”

It wasn’t about chasing profits. It was about doing it right. And it all started in the back of a shop in Louisville, with the help of generous friends (shoutout to Andy, Patrick, and the Verde crew) who helped her figure it out step by step. Punch Buggy went from an idea to a fully operating business in just a few months.

Naming the Dream

The name? It came during a trip to IKEA, of all places. Neige spotted a vintage print of a Volkswagen Bug with a palm tree — instant flashback to childhood drives in Hawaii. Cranking windows by hand. Salt air in the upholstery. Simpler times. It triggered a feeling — unhurried, unplugged, joyful.

That’s exactly what she wanted Punch Buggy to be: a throwback to childhood games, slow summers, analog experiences and making memories.

So, What’s the Big Deal About Shave Ice?

This isn’t your average snow cone. Punch Buggy’s ice is actually shaved, not crushed. It starts with a solid block spinning fast against a razor-sharp blade. In seconds, it turns into delicate, cotton candy-like fluff. It’s mesmerizing—like watching a snowstorm being made.

But the real magic is in what you do with your blank ice canvas: coconut ice cream on the bottom, bold island syrups mixed in, condensed milk (“snow cap”) drizzled on top. Mochi balls. Ube whipped cream. You can build your own flavor adventure.

You’ll find POG (passion orange guava), lychee, guava, and red bean — traditional Hawaiian and Japanese flavors that rotate in and out. Punch Buggy’s menu isn’t just fun. It’s intentional. It invites curiosity, honors tradition, and encourages trying something new.

And it’s all natural. No dyes. No high-fructose anything. Just fruit, cane sugar, and good vibes.

It’s a Team Thing

Neige doesn’t run this show alone. Her crew — 28 teenagers and college kids — aren’t just punching a clock. They’re learning how to show up, take pride in their work, and connect with people. Many come back year after year. Some she’s known since they were nine. She’s seen them get their licenses, get into college and graduate.

“These kids are incredible,” Neige says. “People always ask me, ‘Isn’t it hard to manage that many teenagers?’ And I’m like — no, not at all. They’re rock solid. They care. They work hard. They want to make people’s days better.”

And the customers? They become part of the story, too. Families show up after T-ball games. People celebrating or needing a pick-me-up. Wedding days. Lazy Sundays. She’s seen couples come in on dates and then continue to visit after getting married and then with toddlers in tow.

Punch Buggy isn’t just a treat — it’s part of people’s lives.

Welcome to The Yard

You’ll find Punch Buggy at The Yard in Old Town Lafayette — a shared community space next to Vintrey with an expansive patio, big tables, string lights, and plenty of room to hang. Neige and Jordan (of Vintrey) came into this collaboration with a shared vision: to create a space for the people of Lafayette.

Bring a picnic. A burrito. A coffee. Or nothing at all. This isn’t a space just for customers — it’s a space for everyone. A neighborhood backyard where you can slow down, catch up, and make it your own. And yeah, Punch Buggy is right there in the Airstream when you want something cold and sweet. But the experience? That’s all you.

What You Need to Know

Punch Buggy is the real thing — authentic Hawaiian shave ice, handcrafted with natural ingredients, cultural roots, and bold flavor. Served from a retro Airstream that feels like it was built for summer.

Build your own adventure — layer the ice cream, pick your toppings, try something new. It’s allergen-aware, family-friendly, and powered by local teens who care about getting it right.

📍  Find us at The Yard, next to Vintrey in Lafayette.
@punchbuggyshaveice

This is more than a treat. It’s aloha spirit. A memory in the making. Your new favorite stop on a summer day.

Punch Buggy — no punch backs. Just good times.