Chicago temperatures climbed into the 60s this week—in the middle of February.
For a city used to lake-effect wind chills and gray skies this time of year, the weather on Wednesday felt less like winter and more like early spring. It also felt like Slurpee weather.
Right on cue, before the noon hour hit, I got an email announcing 7-Eleven’s newest “a-peel-ing frozen treat.”
The new Brr-Nana Slurpee drink is available in limited quantities at select stores all year long, the Irving, Texas-based retailer said.
So, strictly for reporting purposes, I headed to my neighborhood store. The verdict: a smooth banana taste with the brand’s signature icy finish, well-timed for February that felt more like April.
A 60-year legacy
In digging a little deeper, I found that Slurpee debuted in 1966, making this its 60th year in cups. Few convenience-retail products can claim that longevity.
“At 7-Eleven, we’re always looking for new ways to surprise and delight our customers—especially when it comes to tastes that spark nostalgia and tap into niche flavor fandoms,” said Randy Quinn, senior vice president of total beverages at 7-Eleven, Inc. “Banana is one of those flavors that customers remember and love, and we’re excited to bring it back and delight those who have been waiting for its return.”
As 7-Eleven approaches its 99th birthday celebration on July 11—better known as 7/11 or Free Slurpee Day—warmer temperatures are already blurring the line between winter and spring. If that trend continues, frozen beverage season may no longer wait for Memorial Day. On Feb. 18, in Chicago at least, Slurpee season arrived six months early, with banana leading the way.
- 7-Eleven is No. 1 on CSP’s 2025 Top 202 ranking of U.S. c-store chains by store count.
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