'Tis The Season: Pumpkin Spice & Everything Nice

Starbucks and coffee enthusiasts are gearing up for the most important season of the year, autumn: the return of the pumpkin spice latte. When the first leaf hits the pavement our flannels are on and our combat boots are tied, yet, there always seems to be the crave for fall’s trademark drink.

Once we hear the words “pumpkin spice latte,” we imagine the crisp in the air and changing colors. Something about this drink seems appropriately seasonal, whether it be the pumpkins in October or the holiday’s approaching, it seemingly has become a season tradition.

Kudos to Starbucks for creating this frenzy, marketing millions of dollars off this one drink alone. According to Forbes, this franchise makes approximately $80 million in revenue from PSL every fall. There’s no doubt that this is Starbuck’s most popular drink during the season, but what specifically about this hot beverage makes it so enticing?

Could it be the spicy sip of pumpkin that reminds us of Thanksgiving memories? The familiar flavor allows us to travel back to our fond times of indulging in pumpkin pie around the family dinner table. Maybe it’s the nostalgia of the season that gravitates us towards purchasing this drink more and more each season. Or could it simply be due to the fact that this autumn-only beverage is here for it’s limited time.

“The pumpkin spice is popular because it only lasts for a little bit,” says newest freshman Lexi Gelinas. “Everyone wants to get it.” The fact of the matter is, this must-have drink is only here for it’s seasonal return. It’s limited availability increases interest, just by knowing that something is going to be around for a short time, makes us want it even more.

“Also, everyone sees everyone else buying it, which makes them want it too.” Similar to any newest trend, once we witness someone else take part in it, we feel influenced into trying it ourselves. Seeing every customers walk out with their scone in one hand and PSL in the other, it makes us ask ourselves, “why am I not purchasing that drink right now?” We can partially thank the media for this.

With social media advertising, it’s quite easy to publicize anything nowadays. Starbucks created their own Instagram and Twitter pages solely dedicated to the pumpkin spice latte (@therealpsl), promoting the craving on a daily basis. With trending hashtags and sponsored pictures, this holiday beverage makes its way across any social platform, further convincing us to take part in this frenzy.

But how could I truly assess this latte, if I haven’t taken part in this seasonal craving on my own? Not going to lie, I happen to be drinking this worshiped beverage as I write this article.

I can’t help but say that I too felt an extra pep in my step after falling under the pumpkin spice magical spell. Something about holding the drink in my hand on a fall afternoon around campus felt almost, too fitting. It’s true, the PSL is appropriately perfect for apple picking, pumpkin picking, or walking on nature’s beautiful paths through the autumn leaves.

All the hype that rises from this one drink alone makes us question every returning season, “why is pumpkin spice all the rage?” We will never fully understand its out of control crave, but If we listen closely, we can hear thousands of teenage girls gathering at the nearest Starbucks to grab this worthwhile drink. ​ But seriously, like myself and most others, we're secretly ecstatic that this incredible salty yet sugary beverage makes it’s appearance yet again on menus all across the states. Whether you love it or hate it, this signature drink is here for the season.