The leaves are changing, the air is crisp – autumn is here. Just kidding! It’s rainy and 90 degrees out. This weather has us asking “when does pumpkin spice start at Starbucks?”
The answer is – drumroll – August 24! I do not know about you, but I make this an event every year. I wake up early, get ready, kiss my kitties goodbye and drive my happy, autumnal self to the nearest Starbucks.
In the spirit of welcoming fall 2024, I thought I would throw together some fun facts you can share over a Pumpkin Spice Latte with your friends or send to your rebellious Dunkin’ loving frenemies – we still love you. Let Spooky Season begin!
When does pumpkin spice start in 2023?
Hold onto your beanies and large-lens glasses – are those still a thing? The day we’ve all been waiting for is here – Starbucks’ Pumpkin Spice Latte is BACK! Yep, you read that right. On August 24, it re-entered the chat shouting, “Hello, fall, we missed ya!”
When did pumpkin spice start?
The journey of the Pumpkin Spice Latte began in 2003, making it a 20-year tradition.. Fast forward to today, and it is not only still relevant, but is a cultural phenomenon. It’s basically our autumn soulmate, a signal that cozy times are here.
To me, the return of pumpkin spice is the ultimate symbol of fall. It’s a feeling that has evolved over time. Back in the day, it used to be all about the excitement of going back to school. However, as time has marched on, I found myself in need of a new way to elicit that warm and cozy autumnal feeling within me. And that’s exactly why the arrival of a Pumpkin Spice Latte on a crisp fall day ignites that unmistakable “main character” energy I crave.
How much money is spent on pumpkin spice annually?
The Pumpkin Spice Latte isn’t just a fall beverage; it’s a multi-million-dollar industry. With a staggering close to 600 million PSLs sold since its introduction, it’s no surprise that this seasonal favorite has become one of Starbucks’ most popular menu items. The enchanting blend of flavors has captivated taste buds and carved a significant slice of the coffee market.
Exploring the PSL’s seasonal trends and influence
Craving those fall vibes lately? So are thousands of others! In the past three years, the search volume for “Starbucks pumpkin spice” showed a fairly consistent pattern.
The search interest climbs during the third week of July, reaching its peak in the third week of August – just in time for Starbucks’ fall menu release. From there, it gently dips with a minor increase during the last week of September or the first week of October before gradually tapering off.
So if you think it is too early to crave fall, PSL’s marketing strategy says otherwise!
Brick and mortar’s fall renaissance
Brick and mortar’s fall renaissanceWho would’ve thought in this digital age, good ol’ brick-and-mortar stores would stage a comeback, right? Well, fall has a few tricks up its cozy sweater sleeves.
As the season shifts, foot traffic in Starbucks stores gets a big boost. The Pumpkin Spice Latte’s siren call is basically like a homing beacon for all of us craving cozy vibes in person. I guess it is not just about the sip; it is about the whole warm and fuzzy Starbucks scene.
