It’s that time of year again where streets and homes are filled with festive decorations and cheer. But the holiday season is not only the beginning of gift giving, jolly work parties and putting up trees and menorahs, but also for restaurant chains to unveil their holiday treats! Here’s a rundown of the festive foods and beverages that you could pick up this season.
Dunkin’ Donuts, AKA the reason why so many students are late in the morning. This year, their holiday cups have the word “Joy” on them, to “reflect the happiness and spirit of this time of year” (Dunkin’ news). To make it even more festive, when three are placed next to each other in the right position, you can see the word “Joy” laid out across the three cups, quite literally spreading the joy.
 As for their menu, Dunkin’ unveiled Cinnamon Sticky Bun Coffee and Lattes, with the flavor of a cinnamon roll and a touch of frosting. They also have a Hershey Kisses donut, which is a vanilla frosted donut with mini Hershey kisses placed on top. Another new seasonal treat is the “Dear Santa Donut”, which is inspired by, of course, Santa Claus, consisting of “red frosting and chocolate icing topped with a powdered munchkin donut hole treat to resemble Santa’s belt and buttons.” (Dunkin’ news) Finally, as a new drink, they released white chocolate coffees and lattes, with White chocolate and Vanilla flavors combined to create a delicious holiday drink. 
Starbucks, another major coffee destination, is also ringing in the season with new treats, and as usual, a new cup design. This year Starbucks unveiled has 4 cup designs that all are “celebrating the spirit of yesteryear with a modern twist.” (Starbucks Newsroom) This includes simplistic designs including stars and a branches of coffee cherries with vintage colors and patterns, combined for that modern yet traditional flair.
For the drinks and treats, Starbucks is bringing back the consumer favorite Peppermint Mocha, while also adding in a Toasted White Chocolate Mocha, Caramel Brulée Latte, Chestnut Praline Latte, Gingerbread Latte and Eggnog Latte. They will all be available hot or iced, for those true iced coffee drinkers that only enjoy their beverages cold, even in 20-degree weather. For treats, Starbucks is introducing/ bringing back a whole new bunch of delectable pastries and even a new sandwich, my favorite of which include the penguin cake pop, peppermint brownie cake pop and snowman cookie.
The festivities of this season are seen not only on the decorated streets, but also from the holiday drinks and treats! Stop by one of your local Dunkin’ Donuts or Starbucks to try these items and follow the links below for the full menu.