It’s the thirstiest time of the year, and soda is taking over. For as long as the holidays have been celebrated, hot cocoa and eggnog have been the festive beverages of choice. Recently, a new competitor has come for the throne of the most popular holiday drink: soda. Specifically, limited-time, festive-flavored soda with holiday-themed packaging.

“It tastes better, everyone likes it better,” said freshman Naweed Nasri.

Soda is seemingly more versatile than other holiday beverages, as it can be flavored with just about anything. From cranberry to cinnamon to even peppermint, soda seems to be the perfect medium for any seasonal flavor consumers crave.

Two of the most popular new holiday sodas are Coke Cinnamon and Winter Spiced Cranberry Sprite. Heavy marketing in the form of commercials has given rise to the popularity of Sprite, but there has been no advertisement campaign for Coke.

“It gives me the winter vibes, this is good for if you’re at a party and don’t want just milk or something, it’s just a soda that gives you a Christmas vibe,” said freshman Alexa Buckner.

The idea of soda during cold winter festivities is definitely a bit jarring. For some, it’s just plain wrong, but for others, it’s an unexpectedly enjoyable treat. 

“I didn’t think I would like it, but I kinda do. I thought it would be gross, but it’s not,” said freshman Rachel Dexter.

Seasonal beverages are a relatively new market. Marketing products as “limited time,” is a surefire way to ensure a product will sell to consumers. Nowadays, everyone wants to be in the loop, and the fear of missing out is ever present.

“It’s like how Starbucks has it’s Frappuccino for October,” said senior Will Love.

While these new holiday beverages add some new flare to the holiday season, they are not totally game changing. Just like other beverages, they combine sugar and holiday flavors into a lovable beverage that gives the consumer a festive fever.

“Soda appeals to more people compared to the other drinks,” said freshman Felipe Melgar.