Your coffee runs just got way more exciting—at least, for Starbucks Rewards members. The annual (and much anticipated) Starbucks For Life has returned this year, promising a month of excitement and a chance to win a lot more than just coffee, including the grand prize of Starbucks for life. This year’s game, themed “Cranberry Blissland,” runs from Dec. 2, 2024, through Jan. 5, 2025, and offers over 10 million prizes. Ready to caffeinate your way to rewards? Here’s everything you need to know about how to play, what you can win and the exciting perks Starbucks added to this year’s lineup.
What is Starbucks For Life?
If you’re new to the Starbucks For Life game, here’s the deal: it’s an annual holiday tradition that gives Starbucks Rewards members the chance to win coveted prizes, from bonus stars to exclusive merchandise—and yes, free Starbucks for life. And all you have to do is sip on your favorite drinks or engage with the app. This year’s theme nods to Starbucks’s holiday cranberry-inspired offerings, like the beloved Cranberry Bliss Bar.
For the grand prize winners, “for life” actually translates to 30 years of a free daily drink or food item, making this one of the most talked-about promotions of the season. But don’t worry—there are plenty of other exciting prizes to snag even if you don’t land the top spot. Other prizes include:
- Starbucks Stars (redeemable for drinks and food)
- Starbucks gift cards
- Exclusive merchandise
- Travel gift cards, including $500 Marriott Bonvoy cards and $1,000 Delta gift cards
- A dream trip with Delta Airlines worth $20,000
How do you play Starbucks For Life?
Playing Starbucks For Life is as simple as being a Rewards member. The game is open to Starbucks Rewards members (you must be 18+ to participate in the U.S.), and joining is easy. Just sign up for a free account online or through the Starbucks app if you’re not already a member.
Once you’re in, here’s how to play:
- Log into the game: Access the Starbucks For Life home screen via the app or Starbucks website.
- Start unwrapping gifts: Tap on the gift icon to “unwrap” your daily instant win play.
- Earn more plays: You can get up to two plays per day through qualifying purchases or by completing special weekly activities like redeeming Stars or trying seasonal menu items.
By playing, you’ll collect digital “stickers” that help you fill out character cards. Completing a card unlocks chances to win prizes corresponding to that card.
Remember, you don’t need to spend a dime to play. Free alternate entries are available by mail or through the no-purchase entry option online. Daily logins matter, however, so play every day to maximize your sticker collection and win instant prizes. Just remember to play before the Jan. 5 deadline!
Double plays and free plays: Extra ways to win
To sweeten the deal, Starbucks has added two exciting new features this year that give you even more opportunities to rack up prizes and increase your odds of winning big.
- Double Play Mondays: Every Monday during the promotion, you can earn up to four plays by making purchases.
- Free Play Fridays: Each Friday, all players get one bonus play, no purchase necessary.
What people are saying about Starbucks For Life
Now that the game is in full swing, fans are already buzzing about Starbucks For Life on social media. On Starbucks’ official Instagram post announcing the launch, people have flooded the comments. “I love Starbucks during the holidays,” wrote one excited user. “The way I look forward to this every year!” said another.
Other Starbucks lovers remained a bit skeptical. “No one ever wins it’s fake,” wrote one grumpy user (or should we say Scrooge). “Does anyone ever actually win?” asked another customer. In response, a user answers: “Yes I’ve won a $25 gift card, diff star amounts & free drinks & stickers but never anything bigger than that.”
So, it’s time to fire up your app, grab your favorite latte and start playing. Will you be the one to unlock the ultimate prize of Starbucks for life?
