• by Teresa Buyikian , October 11, 2023

Just when you think every single Pumpkin Spice item has launched for the holiday season, and it’s safe for this PSL-hating QSR reporter to emerge from her PSL-proof hyperbolic chamber, Starbucks announces the 20^th anniversary of the creation of its ubiquitous Pumpkin Spice Latte.

Oct. 10was the actual day, and of course the chain launched a line of merchandise and promos to commemorate the drink’s 20^th birthday.

Starbucks partnered with the streetwear designers at KidSuper Studios to develop a PSL limited-edition varsity jacket, which features PSL-themed artwork including fall leaves and a new PSL logo. The jacket is available on KidSuper’s website for $295 (the cost of approximately 50 PSLs) while supplies last.

Grammy-Award-winning artist Ashanti created an original birthday song and and music video celebrating Pumpkin Spice Latte love. The video also coincides with the 20^th anniversary of her hit album “Chapter II," so it includes 2003-esque music performances. It can be found on People’s and Ashanti’s TikTok accounts and Instagram.

Customers who pick up their PSL in person are in for more throwback fun, with a curated list of 2003’s most popular hits playing in Starbucks stores. The 2003 playlist is also available on Starbucks Spotify profile.

During the rest of October, members of the Starbucks Odyssey loyalty community will be invited to attend a virtual PSL Celebration. The party allows viewers to explore a 3-D fall-themed village, play games and interact with other Starbucks Odyssey members. Those who attend the event will also unlock the “20 Years of PSL” Journey stamp.

The chain is also giving away PSL temporary tattoos, and launched a new PSL eGift birthday card design.

If all that isn’t quite enough PSL, you can hear about the origins of the drink on a podcast on the brand’s website, from how it was created in the Liquid Lab (the beverage development lab in Starbucks headquarters) to where it is now.

(Editor's note: Coincidentally, we published another, less-celebratory, story today about pumpkin-spice products. Click here )