Does Starbucks Run a Holiday Drink Reward in December?

Yes, Starbucks ran a holiday drink reward last December as a prize game for members. The game, called Starbucks for Life, ran Dec. 8, 2025 through Jan.

4, 2026, with chances to win free drinks and other items. Starbucks says in its holiday game announcement the event offered nearly 10 million prizes, including drinks, food, gift cards and Bonus Stars. That was a chance to win, not a free drink for every shopper.

Play ended Jan. 4, 2026 at 11:59 p.m. PT at participating stores.

Verification note: Program terms and availability can change. This page was checked against linked sources on November 02, 2026.

Did the game cover December?

Starbucks presented Starbucks for Life as its annual holiday game for Rewards members. The play window covered most of December and continued into early January. It centered on instant-win chances rather than a set discount.

The date limit matters for planning. A December purchase did not automatically add a reward. Entry had to occur during the play period through the game site or app.

Who could play and how did entry work?

Only Starbucks Rewards members could play and win. Shoppers had to join the free Rewards program and log in to take part. Play occurred at starbucksforlife.com or in the app.

Starbucks pointed players to the game rules for details, including a no-purchase entry option: The store limit also applied. Starbucks limited winning play to participating stores.

• Join the free Rewards program if you are not a member
• Log in at starbucksforlife.com or in the app
• Follow the rules entry path, including the no-purchase option when listed

What drink prizes were at stake?

Instant prizes included free drinks, food, gift cards and Bonus Stars. Featured prizes included the Glass Bearista Cold Cup and Starbucks for a Year. The top prize was Starbucks for Life.

Starbucks says the grand prize paid a daily credit for 30 years for one free food or drink. It applied at participating U.S. stores and excluded alcohol.

Each daily credit covered one item, not a full order.

How did Stars and seasonal drinks fit in?

Separately, Rewards members earn Stars on purchases throughout the year, including December. Starbucks explains in its Rewards Terms of Use that Stars are redeemable for food, drinks and customizations under program terms. Seasonal drinks were a separate draw from the game.

USA Today reported in 2025 holiday menu coverage that four holiday drinks launched Nov. 6, 2025. The lineup included Peppermint Mocha, Caramel Brulee Latte, Iced Sugar Cookie Latte and Iced Gingerbread Chai.

They remained available through the December holiday season.