The starbucks bearista cups trend surged again on December 8 as Starbucks confirmed that the viral glass bear cup is being offered as an instant-win prize through its Starbucks for Life “Merrython” promotion. The company highlighted the giveaway through a fresh app teaser, signaling a new opportunity for fans to secure the collectible cup after last month’s sellout.
Latest confirmed update
The Merrython promotion officially opens December 8 at 4 a.m. PT and runs through January 4, 2026 at 11:59 p.m. PT. Starbucks Rewards members can earn prize plays through qualifying purchases or by using the no-purchase entry method outlined within the promotion portal. Among the instant-win prizes is the Glass Bearista Cold Cup, which previously disappeared from store shelves within hours during its November retail release.
Limited quantity and high demand
The promotion designates 17,000 Bearista cups as available instant-win prizes. Each winner is limited to one cup. While this is the most accessible restock since the November drop, availability remains narrow compared to demand seen both in stores and across social platforms. Interest has remained high for weeks, driven by the cup’s holiday-themed bear design, 16-ounce size, and premium glass finish.
Why the craze continues
The cup’s initial release on November 6 sparked a nationwide hunt. Many stores sold out on the same day, pushing online resellers to list cups at several times their original retail price. Fans have posted videos documenting store searches, returns, and comparisons between authentic cups and cheaper lookalikes sold by third-party shops. The Merrython appearance now offers a less chaotic, app-based path for those hoping to get the cup directly from Starbucks without navigating store stock shortages or inflated resale pages.
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How to Participate in the Merrython Promotion
Starbucks Rewards members can take part through any of the following steps:
- Sign into the Starbucks app starting December 8.
- Look for the Merrython game tile or banner once the promotion becomes active.
- Earn prize plays through qualifying purchases throughout the promotional period.
- Use the available no-purchase entry option for a free method to obtain plays.
- Instant-win prizes include the Glass Bearista Cold Cup, with a one-cup limit per eligible winner.
The campaign includes scheduled weekly drawings, bonus opportunities, and automatic prize notifications that appear inside each user’s Rewards account. Cup winners will receive redemption instructions through their app dashboard.
What to Expect in the App
The Merrython tile typically appears early on launch day. After logging in, participants can open the game section, where daily activities and instant-play opportunities are displayed. Prize plays reset or increase based on purchase behavior or designated bonus offers. Instant wins are delivered immediately after a play is completed, while sweepstakes drawings occur on predetermined dates.
The Bearista cup is included within the instant-win category, allowing participants to know right away whether they’ve won. Since the winning odds depend on the number of participants, earlier plays can increase exposure to available prize pools.
Resale Market and Lookalike Concerns
Since the November launch, Bearista cups have appeared across third-party resale platforms at prices far above the retail value. Alongside these listings, numerous lookalike cups — sometimes labeled as “bear glass” or “holiday bear tumblers” — have circulated widely.
Shoppers considering resellers should evaluate seller ratings, inspect product photos closely, and check return policies. Many lookalikes resemble the authentic design but differ in quality, weight, and packaging. For those hoping to avoid the secondary market entirely, the Merrython event provides a more reliable way to secure an authentic Bearista cup without paying premium prices.
Tips to Improve Your Chances
While Merrython is a chance-based promotion, certain strategies can help maximize opportunities:
- Log into the Starbucks app early on December 8 to ensure immediate access to the game tile.
- Participate consistently throughout the promotional window to accumulate more plays.
- Use the no-purchase entry option if you prefer to participate without buying anything.
- Keep notifications on to avoid missing bonus-play opportunities.
- Avoid impulse purchases from third-party sellers unless authenticity can be confirmed.
These steps won’t guarantee a win, but they can help participants make the most of the promotional structure.
What the Moment Means for Collectors
The Bearista cup has quickly become one of the most talked-about seasonal merchandise items of the year. Its limited first release, distinctive design and nationwide buzz have made it particularly desirable to collectors. The Merrython drop marks only the second official opportunity to secure a cup directly from Starbucks.
Casual buyers now have a new chance without traveling from store to store, and dedicated collectors get another shot at adding the cup to their holiday lineup. With 17,000 cups allocated to the promotion, the restock remains controlled but more attainable than the earlier retail drop. The appearance of the starbucks bearista cups in this promotion continues to drive strong interest and activity in the app.
Tell us below — did you win a Bearista cup, or are you still on the hunt? Share your experience in the comments.
