Copyright Newsweek
As the 2025 holiday season approaches, Starbucks has announced the launch of a seasonal “Bearista” cup and Hello Kitty merchandise as part of its wider holiday line-up—which also includes a festive drinks and treats collection—which are available from Thursday, November 6. Why it Matters For many in the U.S., the launch of Starbucks’ festive cups, menu, and merchandise signifies the true start of the holiday season, and this year is likely to be no exception. The release of iconic, collectible merchandise like the Bearista cup and Hello Kitty items is likely to go down a treat with Starbucks fans. What To Know Starbucks has introduced the "Bearista" cup as part of its annual holiday merchandise and menu launch. The Bearista is a 20-ounce glass cup, priced at $29.95, that’s in the shape of a teddy bear, complete with a Starbucks-green hat (with a matching straw), and is designed for cold drinks. The cup is available at Starbucks stores, and consumers can either buy it as a standalone item or get it filled with their cold drink of choice. Another holiday highlight is Starbucks’ collaboration with Hello Kitty. A key item in this limited-edition collection is a classic Hello Kitty soft toy, which is wearing a Starbucks apron, and is priced at $34.95. The following items are also included in the range—all of which feature iconic Hello Kitty designs: a 26-ounce stainless steel cold cup ($32.95) and a 24-ounce version ($24.95) a 16-ounce Hello Kitty ceramic mug ($32.95) a 20-ounce water bottle ($29.95) a stainless steel 12-ounce tumbler ($32.95) Alongside the merchandise, Starbucks is also launching its seasonal drinks menu, which features a Peppermint Mocha, Caramel Brulée Latte, Iced Sugar Cookie Latte, and an Iced Gingerbread Chai. Plus, it's bringing back the Snowman Cookie and introducing a new Cinnamon Pull-Apart Bread and a Polar Bear Cake Pop. What People Are Saying Kap Pitarys, director of U.S. merchandise for Starbucks, said about the partnership with Hello Kitty: “Starbucks and Hello Kitty have strong fandoms and deep roots in culture. Interestingly, both were born in the ’70s–Hello Kitty in 1974 and Starbucks in 1971. We’re excited to bring back that nostalgic vibe with this special collaboration this holiday season.” What Happens Next Starbucks also announced the return of Red Cup Day on November 13, which offers customers a free reusable holiday cup with any holiday drink.
