In 2003, Starbucks launched its first-ever pumpkin spice beverages, and the world truly hasn’t been the same since. Pumpkin spice mania hit its peak in fall 2017, according to Google Trends, and though the craze has died down a bit, pumpkin spice flavors have cemented themselves in US culture as a permanent (and fragrant) part of fall festivities.
At the end of summer — or, really, smack-dab in the middle of summer — autumn obsessives start getting excited about pumpkin spice again. Whether you’re team #ItsStillSummer or you’re ready to don a sweater and toss your iced coffee order to the curb, the truth is, it’s coming.
Ready or not, it’s almost time for Starbucks to release its fall menu — and this year is extra special, as Starbucks is celebrating the 20 years of pumpkin spice.
When Is Starbucks Releasing Pumpkin Spice For 2023?
Starbucks just announced that its fall menu — including the coveted pumpkin spice latte — will be back starting tomorrow, Aug. 24.
In addition to the brand’s classic pumpkin drinks, it’s also debuting two new fall beverages: the Iced Pumpkin Cream Chai Tea Latte (which was inspired by a popular customization) and the Iced Apple Crisp Oatmilk Shaken Espresso.
The chain’s also bringing back customer favorites, including the Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew, Apple Crisp Oatmilk Macchiato, Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffin, and Owl Cake Pop.
When Does Starbucks Usually Have Pumpkin Spice?
Every year, Starbucks rolls out its pumpkin spice drinks at the end of August — nearly a month before fall officially starts on Sept. 23. Last year, Starbucks released its pumpkin spice drinks nationwide on Aug. 30, announcing it on its website only one day ahead of time. In 2021, the chain brought out its seasonal drinks about a week earlier, on Aug. 24. In 2020, Starbucks released drinks around the same time, on Aug. 25.
Even before the pumpkin spice release date for 2023 was confirmed, rumors were already flying around the internet. Instagram user @markie_devo alleged the fall menu would drop on Aug. 24, claiming to have gotten the news from a Starbucks employee.
Starbucks’s fall menu is available “for a limited time, while supplies last,” according to a release from the brand, but it’s usually only around until Nov. 1 — so get your fix while you can (or learn how to make your own pumpkin spice latte at home).
When Do Pumpkin Spice Drinks Start at Other Retailers?
Dunkin’ Donuts brought back its pumpkin drinks on Aug. 16, while Krispy Kreme dropped its fall goodies shockingly early, on Aug. 8, as announced by the brand on Instagram.
Image Source: Courtesy of Starbucks