Starbucks bear cup chaos: Sold-out “Bearista” sparks frenzy as new holiday collab announced
Starbucks has officially proven that holiday cheer can come with a little caffeine-fueled chaos. The coffee giant’s limited-edition Bearista Cup—a $29.95 glass mug shaped like an adorable bear in a green Starbucks beanie—set off a nationwide frenzy after launching early Thursday morning.
Fans lined up before dawn hoping to snag the collectible, but many left disappointed. In some cities, customers reported fights breaking out as supplies vanished within minutes. By midday, the Bearista cup had sold out almost everywhere, prompting an avalanche of frustrated posts online and a rare apology from Starbucks.
“The excitement for our merchandise exceeded even our biggest expectations,” Starbucks said in a statement. “Despite shipping more Bearista cups to coffeehouses than almost any other merchandise item this holiday season, the Bearista cup and some other items sold out fast.”
The company added that it understood the disappointment and promised “more exciting merchandise coming this holiday season.”
From Sold-Out Bears to Fashion Collabs
To ease the frustration of those who missed out, Starbucks quickly announced a new collaboration with lifestyle brand Roller Rabbit, known for its colorful, playful prints. The collection, arriving on December 2, will feature new mugs, tumblers, and drinkware dressed in Roller Rabbit’s signature patterns—bringing a touch of fashion to the coffee counter.
The Roller Rabbit x Starbucks line is expected to be one of the biggest holiday releases yet, following the viral Bearista craze that saw the collectible cup resold online for hundreds of dollars.
Beyond the Bear — What’s New for the Holidays
Starbucks is also introducing several new festive cups and tumblers for 2025. Highlights include a red gingerbread cookie tumbler, a golden poinsettia mug, and a travel cup covered in gingerbread men and holiday puppies.
The launch is part of Starbucks’ larger holiday lineup, which also includes fan-favorite beverages such as the Peppermint Mocha, Caramel Brulée Latte, and Iced Sugar Cookie Latte. Returning on December 2 are the Eggnog Latte and Chestnut Praline Latte, alongside new treats like the Cinnamon Pull-Apart Bread, Snowman Cookie, and Polar Bear Cake Pop.
Every drink this year will be served in the latest festive cups—four plaid and bow-themed designs that have become a beloved Starbucks tradition. Designer Yvonne Chan shared that the 2025 cup design was “inspired by that magical moment of warmth you feel stepping inside from the cold.”
Red Cup Day Returns
As part of its eco-conscious holiday push, Starbucks’ famous Red Cup Giveaway is back. Customers who order any handcrafted holiday or fall beverage—hot, iced, or blended—can get a free reusable red cup while supplies last. The 2025 cup is made with 95% recycled material and features hand-drawn sketches to evoke a cozy, handmade feel.
Starbucks encourages customers to bring back their reusable cups year-round, rewarding them with a 10¢ discount and double rewards stars for each order.
A Tradition That Keeps Brewing
Since debuting its first red holiday cup in 1997, Starbucks has turned festive drinkware into an annual pop-culture moment. From the minimalist 2015 “red cup controversy” to 2023’s magenta-and-green “Peppermint Swirl,” each design has stirred excitement, debate, and nostalgia among fans.
With the Bearista phenomenon proving that even a cup can break the internet, Starbucks seems to have brewed another winning blend of collectability, creativity, and holiday spirit.
FAQ
1. Why did the Starbucks Bearista Cup sell out so fast?
The Bearista Cup was released in limited quantities nationwide and quickly went viral online, prompting early-morning lines and quick sellouts.
2. Will Starbucks restock the Bearista Cup?
Starbucks hasn’t confirmed a restock but promised more “exciting merchandise” and collaborations coming this season.
3. What is the Roller Rabbit x Starbucks collection?
It’s a December 2 collab featuring patterned mugs and tumblers inspired by Roller Rabbit’s signature prints.
4. When is Starbucks Red Cup Day 2025?
Red Cup Day falls on November 13, 2025, and includes a free reusable cup with any holiday beverage purchase.
5. What drinks are included in the Red Cup Giveaway?
Fan favorites like the Peppermint Mocha, Caramel Brulée Latte, and Sugar Cookie Latte all qualify for the promotion.