When Is Red Cup Day at Starbucks? How to Get Your Holiday Cup
It’s officially holiday season at Starbucks, and one of the chain’s most anticipated traditions is just around the corner. Red Cup Day returns this year with a free, limited-edition reusable red cup for customers who order a holiday drink. If you want to add this year’s cup to your collection, here’s everything you need to know about the date, how to get one and what else is coming to Starbucks this season.
When Is Starbucks Red Cup Day 2026?
Starbucks Red Cup Day 2026 is on Tuesday, 17 November. It’s a little later than last year, when Red Cup Day fell on 13 November 2025. The giveaway takes place at participating Starbucks stores in the U.S. and runs only while supplies last.
How to Get Your Free Red Cup
Getting your free cup is simple:
- Visit a participating Starbucks on Tuesday, 17 November.
- Order a handcrafted holiday drink. Starbucks says you’ll need to buy a qualifying holiday beverage to receive the cup.
- Get your free reusable red cup with your order, while supplies last.
In past years, customers could order any size of holiday drink, whether hot, iced or blended, to qualify. The cups are usually Starbucks’ signature grande-size reusable plastic cups. Starbucks hasn’t yet revealed this year’s cup design or the full list of qualifying drinks, so check the Starbucks app for the latest details closer to the day.
Tips for Snagging a Red Cup
- Go early. The free cups are in high demand and often run out quickly, so it’s best to visit first thing in the morning.
- Choose a holiday drink. Make sure your order is a handcrafted seasonal beverage. Last year, brewed Christmas Blend coffee did not count as a qualifying drink.
- Check the app. Starbucks usually shares final details, including which drinks qualify and whether app and delivery orders are included, in the days before Red Cup Day.
- Reuse your cup. Starbucks has previously offered a small discount and bonus Rewards Stars when customers bring a reusable cup, so check the current offer in the app.
Starbucks Holiday Drinks to Try
The Starbucks holiday menu launched on 5 November, so you’ll have plenty of festive drinks to choose from on Red Cup Day. This year’s lineup includes the new Tiramisu Velvet Latte, along with returning favourites like the Peppermint Mocha, Caramel Brulée Latte, Sugar Cookie Latte and Gingerbread Chai.
Starbucks Holiday 2026 Key Dates
| Date | What’s Happening |
|---|---|
| 5 November | Starbucks holiday menu launches |
| 10 November | Mystery Glass Bearista Cold Cup characters roll out |
| 17 November | Red Cup Day: free reusable red cup with a holiday drink |
| 1 December | Original Bearista Glass Cold Cup returns at select coffeehouses |
The Bearista Is Back
Collectors have even more to look forward to this season. Starting 10 November, Starbucks is rolling out a surprise collection of Glass Bearista Cold Cup characters, with each box containing a mystery Bearista that’s only revealed once opened. The original Bearista Glass Cold Cup will then return to select coffeehouses on 1 December. Last year’s Bearista cup was so popular that Starbucks apologised for the disappointment when many fans missed out, so it’s worth planning ahead.
A Holiday Tradition Years in the Making
Starbucks has been releasing holiday cups since 1997, and the Peppermint Mocha has been on the holiday menu since 2002. Red Cup Day, which began in 2018, turned that tradition into a one-day giveaway that draws huge crowds every November. Many fans now see it as the unofficial start of the holiday season.
FAQ
When is Starbucks Red Cup Day 2026?
Red Cup Day 2026 is on Tuesday, 17 November, at participating Starbucks stores in the U.S.
How do I get a free Starbucks red cup?
Buy a qualifying handcrafted holiday drink on Red Cup Day, and you’ll receive a free reusable red cup while supplies last.
Do all Starbucks drinks qualify for a free red cup?
No. You need to order a handcrafted holiday beverage. In previous years, brewed coffee, such as Christmas Blend, did not qualify.
What time should I go to Starbucks on Red Cup Day?
It’s best to go as early as possible, as the free cups are limited and often run out quickly.
Bolded anchor phrases to link: Starbucks, Red Cup Day, Tuesday, 17 November, holiday menu, Tiramisu Velvet Latte, Peppermint Mocha, Glass Bearista Cold Cup.
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