Starbucks’ new winter cups: A second “Cupgate?”

Katie Osmundson, Staff Writer, Business Manager

Ghosts, zombies and pumpkins are being replaced by lights, ornaments and pine trees. The second week of November means Christmas in the eyes of many Americans and corporations and Starbucks is no exception.

Starbucks launched their winter reusable cups on Nov. 11th, and stores featured the annual Christmas disposable cup as early as Nov. 1st. The iconic winter-themed cups have appeared since 1997 and have varied every year. From snowflakes to reindeer the holiday designs bring more festivity to customers’ regular coffee runs.

In 2015 however, controversy struck, as the simple ombre red cups were declared a “war on Christmas.” Although no one truly knows where the anger came from, it is believed that people viewed the plain cup as Starbucks censoring Christian symbols. Though, many pointed out that ice skates and snowflakes were not Christian symbols in the first place. It is clear that people take Christmas, and coffee VERY seriously.

This year Starbucks pulled out something they thought would hopefully please everyone. The white cup showcases presents, a Christmas tree, doves, snowflakes and sweaters. What else could anyone want? According to a few customers on Twitter, more of the color red. (Ironic right?)

This holiday-themed cup contrasts the less Christmas-y reusable cups that Starbucks unveiled. The cups focus on more pastel colors with a lot of glitter and my personal favorite, lights on succulents. The phrase of the year seems to be “Love is love” sending out a warm message during the cold season.