The holiday season is about to begin at Starbucks. In fact, it starts a little earlier than many fans expected. The coffee chain will roll out its 2026 holiday menu on Thursday, November 5, bringing back familiar favorites and adding a few fresh surprises.

For many customers, this launch marks the unofficial start of the festive season. Beyond that, it also sets the stage for one of the brand’s most popular annual events: Red Cup Day.

Here is everything you need to know about the new drinks, the food lineup, the merchandise and the date to circle on your calendar.

Starbucks Holiday Menu 2026 Launch Date

The full holiday lineup lands in stores on November 5. On that day, seasonal drinks, limited-time food and new merchandise will all arrive together. As a result, early visitors will get the first chance to try everything before the busy weeks of December.

Returning Holiday Favorites

Longtime fans will be glad to see several classics return this year. The lineup includes:

• Peppermint Mocha
• Caramel Brulée Latte
• Sugar Cookie Latte
• Gingerbread Chai

These drinks have built a loyal following over the years. Consequently, their return gives regulars a reliable choice while they explore the newer options.

New Holiday Drinks for 2026

This year, Starbucks is adding two brand-new seasonal beverages to the menu.

Tiramisu Velvet Latte and Cold Brew

The first new drink draws its inspiration from tiramisu, the much-loved Italian dessert. Customers can order the Tiramisu Velvet Latte either hot or iced. Alternatively, they can choose the Tiramisu Velvet Cold Brew.

Both versions come with a velvety mascarpone cold foam on top. Then, a light dusting of cocoa and coffee finishes the drink. For dessert lovers, this could easily become the standout order of the season.

Apple Pomegranate Refresher

The second addition offers something lighter. The Apple Pomegranate Refresher combines crisp apple with bright pomegranate notes. Moreover, it comes in two styles.

The original version keeps things simple and fruity. Meanwhile, the Snowy Apple version adds coconut milk for a creamier, wintry twist. This makes it a good pick for anyone who wants a festive drink without coffee.

New and Returning Holiday Food Items

Drinks are only part of the celebration. Starbucks is also launching several limited-time food items on November 5.

Bearista Cake Pop

The most eye-catching new treat is the Bearista Cake Pop. Its design takes cues from the popular Starbucks Bearista Glass Cold Cup, a collectible that has gained a strong fan base. Because of that connection, the cake pop may sell quickly at many locations.

Savory Sandwiches

For a heartier bite, two sandwiches join the menu:

• Braised Short Rib Grilled Cheese, a new addition this season
• Turkey & Stuffing Sandwich, now made with an updated recipe

Classic Holiday Bakery Items

In addition, a few seasonal bakery favorites are returning. These include the Cranberry Bliss Bar, the Snowman Cookie and the Sugar Plum Cheese Danish.

Bearista Glass Cold Cup Release Dates

Collectors should note two separate dates for the Bearista Glass Cold Cup. First, a Surprise Box Edition will arrive on November 10. After that, the cup itself returns to select stores on December 1.

Since availability is limited to certain locations, fans may want to check with their local store ahead of time.

Starbucks Holiday Merchandise

Alongside the menu, Starbucks will reveal its holiday merchandise collection on November 5. The range includes themed drinkware and accessories. Notably, it features retro-inspired Peppermint Mocha designs across tumblers, cups and mugs.

These items often make popular gifts. Therefore, shoppers who want a specific design may prefer to visit early in the season.

When Is Starbucks Red Cup Day 2026?

For devoted collectors, the biggest day comes a little later. Starbucks Red Cup Day 2026 falls on Tuesday, November 17.

On that day, customers can receive a free reusable holiday cup when they buy any handcrafted holiday beverage. However, supplies are limited and tend to disappear fast. So, arriving early in the day gives you the best chance of taking one home.

Tips for Making the Most of Red Cup Day

A little planning can help you avoid missing out. Here are a few simple ideas:

1. Go early. Stores can run out of cups before the afternoon.
2. Pick a holiday drink. Only handcrafted holiday beverages qualify for the free cup.
3. Reuse your cup. After the event, the cup works well for your daily coffee runs at home or on the go.

The Starbucks holiday menu 2026 balances tradition with something new. On one hand, classics like the Peppermint Mocha and Gingerbread Chai return. On the other hand, the Tiramisu Velvet drinks and Apple Pomegranate Refresher give fans fresh flavors to try.

With festive food, collectible merchandise and Red Cup Day on November 17, the coming weeks offer plenty of reasons to stop by. Ultimately, the best plan is simple: mark your calendar, arrive early and enjoy the season one cup at a time.

Frequently Asked Questions

When does the Starbucks holiday menu 2026 launch?
The holiday menu arrives in stores on Thursday, November 5, 2026, along with new food items and holiday merchandise.

What are the new Starbucks holiday drinks this year?
The new drinks are the Tiramisu Velvet Latte, the Tiramisu Velvet Cold Brew and the Apple Pomegranate Refresher, which also comes in a Snowy Apple version made with coconut milk.

When is Starbucks Red Cup Day 2026?
Red Cup Day takes place on Tuesday, November 17, 2026. Customers get a free reusable holiday cup with the purchase of any handcrafted holiday beverage, while supplies last.

When will the Bearista Glass Cold Cup be available?
A Surprise Box Edition arrives on November 10, and the Bearista Glass Cold Cup returns to select stores on December 1.