Starbucks Red Cup Day 2025: How to Snag the Free Holiday Cup
Starbucks Red Cup Day returns on Thursday, November 13, 2025, across participating U.S. stores, signaling the festive kickoff with a limited‑edition reusable holiday cup. You can get one by buying any size of a handcrafted holiday drink, whether it’s hot, iced, or blended. Some of the drinks that qualify as classics are Peppermint Mocha, Caramel Brulée Latte, Chestnut Praline, Sugar Cookie, and Gingerbread. The offer is good from the time the store opens until supplies run out, and popular stores can run out by late morning, so timing is key.
The best way to get things done quickly is to go early or place a mobile pickup when stores open. If the café near you has low stock or long lines, check the app for nearby stores before you go. Most of the time, drive-thru orders qualify, and in some places, the deal also applies to delivery through Uber Eats, DoorDash, or Grubhub. However, the items are still store-specific. There will probably be a limit of “one cup per eligible drink.” If you’re getting drinks for friends, make sure to place separate qualifying orders so you don’t break store rules.
Some unionised stores may have protests or cut service on the same day, so have a backup plan. Find a second store, preferably a licensed supermarket, that isn’t as busy. Check the in-app banners for any perks you can get on the day of your visit if you bring the cup back on future visits. These small discounts or extra rewards can change from year to year. If you’re going out later in the day, call ahead to make sure they have what you want.Also, take a screenshot of your mobile order in case you need to change where you pick it up.
In short, order a qualifying holiday drink early, use the app to check on stores near you, and have a backup place ready to get that red cup.
