When do you think is the best time for pumpkin spice to start? October, September, or even earlier? Pumpkin Spice has become very popular with its many different variations. Starbucks, Dunkin Donuts, and even Trader Joe’s and Shop Rite have pumpkin spice products. The signature “Pumpkin Spice Latte” is one of Starbucks’s most popular drinks during fall. I personally really enjoy Dunkin’s “Pumpkin Spice Iced Signature Latte,” and I also enjoy pumpkin spice products in general. What caused this craze to grow so much? 

Through strategic marketing techniques, pumpkin spice has been associated with being cozy, and the colors being connected to falling leaves. Because these are limited time drinks, many people experience the fear of missing out, commonly called “FOMO,” if they don’t try it; I know I do. Starbucks started the trend of the Pumpkin Spice Latte by mixing this spice with coffee. Some other blends that Starbucks has are the Iced Pumpkin Cream Chai and Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew. 

Here are some fun facts about pumpkin spice:

• Pumpkin spice surprisingly has no pumpkin in it; it is a combination of allspice, nutmeg, cloves, ginger, and cinnamon!
• Modern day Starbucks has included pumpkin spice in its drinks as of 2015.
• These spices have been used in many religious ceremonies and in medicine for many years and thought to be able to cure diseases. 
• Native Americans introduced this spice to the English explorers
• These spices were very sought out for, so people with these spices were considered very wealthy. 

Ultimately, the main reasons pumpkin spice is so popular are clever marketing strategies and its limited timeframe, increasing its sales and popularity. I love getting these drinks and definitely recommend them! I personally think pumpkin spice should be sold from August through October, a longer timeframe, or even year round!