As seasoned coffee enthusiasts who've tracked Starbucks' holiday traditions for years, we know the Red Cup season marks the true start of Christmas cheer. From whimsical snowmen and snowflakes to candy canes and vibrant designs, these iconic cups spark excitement every mid-November. They're perfect for that Instagram-worthy shot—hand wrapped around a steaming latte—and the #RedCup hashtag proves we're far from alone. In 2016, Starbucks raised the bar with 13 breathtaking designs.
For the first time, Starbucks invited customers worldwide to dream up the Red Cup designs, selecting the top 13 from six different countries. Even cold-drink cups get festive makeovers this year—slightly subtler than the hot ones, but equally charming. Plus, every Red Cup purchased donates 5 cents to Civil Protection, blending holiday joy with philanthropy. A beautiful cup, delicious drink, charitable impact, and envy-inducing feed—what's not to love?
Check out the stunning designs in photos below...
