Girl Scout cookie season begins with a new flavor to try
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The 2026 Girl Scout cookie season is officially under way with the return of classic favourites and the introduction of a new cookie that reflects the adventurous spirit of the organisation. The programme is a long established tradition in the United States and has grown into the largest girl led entrepreneurial initiative in the world.
Girl Scouts of the USA have added Exploremores to this year’s cookie lineup. Inspired by rocky road ice cream, these sandwich cookies are filled with chocolate, marshmallow, and toasted almond flavoured creme. The new flavor reflects the spirit of exploration that the organisation seeks to foster in participants.
Alongside Exploremores, classic cookies like Thin Mints, Caramel deLites also known as Samoas, and Peanut Butter Patties also known as Tagalongs have returned. The season also features other fan favourites such as Trefoils, Lemonades and Adventurefuls, making the lineup familiar and exciting for cookie lovers.
Cookie season represents skills and opportunity
Beyond the taste experience, the Girl Scout cookie programme plays a significant role in helping girls build real world skills. Participants learn goal setting, decision making, money management and people skills as part of the sales process. These are skills fundamental to future success in business and leadership roles.
The cookie programme offers girls a hands on way to practise entrepreneurship. It is widely recognised as the largest girl led entrepreneurial programme in the world. Through selling cookies each year, scouts learn business ethics and how to interact with customers in a respectful and professional manner.
Where and how to find Girl Scout cookies this season
Cookie season traditionally runs from January through April, though exact dates and availability vary by region. To purchase cookies, buyers are encouraged to contact a Girl Scout directly. Many scouts sell cookies at booths set up in local communities, at storefronts, and through online options provided by the Girl Scout organisation.
Customers can use digital tools available on official Girl Scout cookie websites to find booths and order online. Text messaging services also provide updates and information about cookie availability in specific areas. Proceeds from cookie sales stay local and help fund troop activities throughout the year.
Impact on troops and communities
All revenues from cookie sales remain with the local councils and troops. Funds are used to support experiences year round such as outdoor programmes, educational activities, community projects and leadership training. For many Girl Scouts these experiences are transformative and help build confidence and lifelong friendships.
Families and supporters of Girl Scouts often speak to the impact of the programme beyond cookie sales. Many adults look back on their time selling cookies as a formative moment that taught them perseverance, communication skills, and the importance of community.
The legacy and continued growth of cookie season
The introduction of Exploremores for 2026 adds a fresh chapter to this long running tradition. Fans of Girl Scout cookies and supporters of the programme’s mission have another reason to celebrate this season. Whether indulging in Thin Mints or trying the new Exploremores, buying cookies helps sustain a programme that has supported girls for more than 100 years.
Sources
Southern Living