Starbucks is bringing back one of its most anticipated annual promotions, and yes, the free collectible is part of the festivities. Red Cup Day returns on Thursday, November 13, offering customers a complimentary reusable red cup with the purchase of a qualifying seasonal drink.
The one-day giveaway has grown into a holiday-season ritual, and Starbucks says it’s prepared for the rush. The company is giving away more red cups than ever before this year and staffing extra baristas to help keep lines moving and orders smooth throughout the day.
When Is Red Cup Day & What You Get
On Thursday, November 13, customers who order any size of a handcrafted holiday or fall beverage will receive a free grande (16-ounce) Starbucks reusable red cup at participating stores, while supplies last. The offer applies in-store and extends to mobile orders and delivery, making it easier than ever to snag the seasonal collectible.
Starbucks has made Red Cup Day a marquee moment of its holiday rollout, and the 2025 edition continues that trend with a refreshed cup design and expanded availability. As always, availability can vary by location, so early orders are a smart move if you’ve got your heart set on securing the cup.
Every Drink That Qualifies For A Free Red Cup
The list of eligible beverages is robust, covering both holiday favorites and fall standbys across hot, iced, and blended options. Qualifying drinks include Peppermint Mocha, Caramel Brulée Latte, Sugar Cookie Latte, Sugar Cookie Breve, Gingerbread Chai, Gingerbread Latte, Peppermint Hot Chocolate, White Hot Chocolate, and classic Hot Chocolate.
Fall staples also count toward the giveaway, including Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew, Pumpkin Spice Latte, and Iced Pumpkin Cream Chai. The Pecan Crunch Oatmilk Latte and Pecan Oatmilk Cortado are part of the lineup as well, along with Holiday and Fall Cold Foams and Protein Cold Foams. If it’s a handcrafted seasonal drink, there’s a strong chance it qualifies—just check with your local store if you’re unsure.
Sustainable Design, With A New Look For 2025
This year’s red cup isn’t just collectible—it’s built with sustainability in mind. The 2025 Starbucks red cup is made with 95% recycled material and sports a hand-drawn illustration created by Starbucks designer Yvonne Chan. It’s a festive refresh that leans into the cozy, wintry energy that defines the brand’s holiday season.
"The design is inspired by the little moment of magic you feel when you step into a Starbucks from the cold outside," Chan said. "With the hand-drawn sketch, I tried to capture the feeling of something crafted by one person for another." The result is a cup that doubles as both a memento and a practical way to cut down on single-use waste.
Starbucks continues to incentivize reuse well beyond Red Cup Day. Bring a clean reusable cup—whether it’s the 2025 red cup or your own—and you’ll receive a 10-cent discount on your beverage. Starbucks Rewards members also earn double stars on their entire order when they use a reusable cup, turning a sustainability-minded habit into an easy way to rack up rewards.
How To Get A Red Cup If You Can’t Visit A Store
If you can’t make it into a location on Thursday, you’re not out of luck. The red cup giveaway is available through the Starbucks app as well as Starbucks delivery on DoorDash, Grubhub, and Uber Eats, while supplies last. That flexibility means you can still participate in the annual drop without stepping away from your desk—or your couch.
As with any limited giveaway, availability is finite and may vary by store, especially during peak hours. Ordering earlier in the day typically improves your odds, and confirming participation with your nearest location can help avoid surprises. Whether you’re picking up a Peppermint Mocha or stocking the pantry with a Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew, Red Cup Day remains one of the easiest—and most festive—ways to kick off the season.
With more cups in circulation, extra staffing, and multiple ordering avenues, Starbucks has streamlined this year’s experience to meet demand. For fans of the brand’s seasonal drinks and design-forward collectibles, November 13 is the day to circle on the calendar.
Between the expanded eligibility list, the eco-friendly 95% recycled construction, and the rewards perks tied to reusables, the 2025 red cup is more than a holiday keepsake. It’s a reusable that actually pays off—and a timely reminder to bring it back the next time you order.
Red Cup Day has become a reliable signal that the holiday season is in full swing. If your plans include a seasonal latte, a cocoa for the road, or a chai with festive foam, you’ll walk away with a free cup—and a little extra holiday cheer.
