If you've been wondering exactly where the Starbucks red holiday cup has been hiding, listen up, coffee drinkers, because we know now for certain: The red cups are going to be back in action. But when? When are red cups returning to Starbucks for 2016? Thankfully for us, their return is only a few days away: Starbucks has confirmed that their red holiday cups will return on Nov. 10, meaning we only have to wait short while longer for our feeds to fill up with those Instagram shots that perfectly depict winter warmth and cheer. Phew.
Now, it's important to point out, we don't know what these holiday cups will look like just yet. Sure, Starbucks has confirmed that they'll be "the red cups," but as we've learned in recent years, the red cups all look different from year to year. Will they bring back a repeat this year, just for the sake of keeping it classic? Or spice it up with an entirely new design? We can't be sure yet but I'm willing to bet people will have some seriously strong opinions about it either way. Remember how upset people were when they thought the Starbucks holiday drink cup was green? (Personally, I like the green cup just fine — and again, it's not actually the holiday cup, but rather a "unity cup" not related to the holidays that's meant to celebrate community.)
What I actually find particularly interesting about the return of the Starbucks red cup is when, exactly, their release will be. Looking into Starbucks history a bit, it's clear that the Nov. 10 release date is a little unusual. For example, last year, in 2015, the Starbucks red cup was released on Nov. 1. And before that, in 2014, the release was also the first week of November. While this year's release is still safely within the first half of the month, I find the delay a little curious. Is it all about amping up anticipation? Does absence make the heart grow fonder? We can only guess.
Whether or not you're curious about what the Starbucks holiday cup will look like, you have at least one good reason to be super excited about your holiday coffee. For the dates of Nov. 10 to Nov. 14, between 2 and 5 p.m., Starbucks is offering one of their best deals of the year: BOGO holiday drinks! That's right: On those dates, you can treat a friend, stranger, or heck, even yourself and buy one holiday drink and receive one of equal or lesser value free.
This deal is valid on hot, iced, and blended beverages, and includes all our favorite holiday treats: Peppermint Mocha, Skinny Peppermint Mocha, Gingerbread Latte, Eggnog Latte, Caramel Brulee Latte, Teavana Joy Brewed Tea, and the new Spiced Sweet Cream Narino 70 Cold Brew. Yum! Nothing says the holidays quite like a seasonal drink, and hey, the holidays are all about giving to those around you, right? Might as well make someone's day and pass out some free drinks. Let's just keep in mind that no matter what the new red cups look like, what is inside is sure to be delicious.
Images: Giphy (2)
