Let’s be real, autumn doesn’t officially begin when the leaves change or the temperature drops. It starts the moment Starbucks drops its fall menu. For everyone who is juggling classes, clubs, sports and chaotic mornings, that first sip of pumpkin spice feels like a warm hug in a cup. This year, Starbucks’s old and new flavors are totally worth the hype. Whether you’re loyal to your regular order or if you want something new, this fall’s drink list has something for you. 

To kick things off, it is important to know the iconic Pumpkin Spice Latte is back. For people who have not tasted it yet, it is a mix of pumpkin and warm spices. It’s the drink that fits the fall atmosphere and makes you feel cozy during cold mornings before school or while watching Gilmore Girls before bed. On the other hand, if you like cold drinks then the Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew is for you. Plus, it has lots of caffeine to wake you up before a long day. The classics are comforting, familiar, and totally delicious. 

This year’s new favorite is the Teddy Graham Iced Chai. For all those who love Pumpkin chai, this drink is a combination of a chai latte with brown sugar cold foam and cinnamon powder. It’s like sipping graham crackers. Also making waves is the Pumpkin Spice Matcha Latte, this is a secret menu gem that is for all of the matcha lovers but with a twist of pumpkin cream foam for a sweet and savory moment. These drinks are perfect for people who want something unique but still completely fall coded. 

We all know about the new crackdown on having drinks after advisory, but that doesn’t mean you have to miss out. Grab your favorite fall drink before school or after practice. Don’t forget, if you download the app, you can even have it ready for you to pick up on your way home. Whether you’re heading to a study session, a Calvert Hall or Loyola game, there’s always time for a pumpkin chai pick me up. 

So even though the new drink policy means no more iced lattes in third period, you can still swing by Starbucks and treat yourself to the Iced Pumpkin Cream Chai or the Teddy Graham Chai after school. For me, fall flies by, but these flavors make it memorable. And let’s be honest, nothing says “I’ve got my life together” like walking into school with coffee in hand.