For families living in — or planning a move to — California, Girl Scout cookie season is more than just a sweet tradition. It’s a community event that brings neighborhoods together, supports youth leadership, and offers a taste of nostalgia year after year.
And just like in many parts of the country, one cookie continues to stand above the rest in the Golden State: Thin Mints.
Thin Mints Still on Top
From San Diego to Sacramento, Thin Mints consistently rank as the best-selling Girl Scout cookie in California. The classic chocolate-and-mint cookie, coated in a rich chocolate shell, has built a loyal following among Californians who enjoy them straight from the freezer or paired with coffee.
Close behind are other familiar favorites, including:
Caramel deLites (also known as Samoas in some regions)
Peanut Butter Patties (Tagalongs)
Do-si-dos
Adventurefuls and other newer specialty flavors
With California’s diverse population and large metropolitan areas, cookie booths can be found outside grocery stores, at community festivals, and in neighborhoods across the state during peak season, typically from January through March.
A Tradition That Builds Young Leaders
The Girl Scout Cookie Program isn’t just about desserts — it’s the largest girl-led entrepreneurial program in the world. Proceeds stay local, funding troop activities, leadership programs, outdoor adventures, and community service projects throughout California.
For newcomers and families relocating to California, cookie season offers a simple way to connect with the community. Purchasing a box supports local youth while giving families a chance to meet neighbors and learn about local Girl Scout troops.
Girl Scouts in California develop key skills through the program, including:
Goal setting
Decision making
Money management
People skills
Business ethics
Those lessons often translate into long-term confidence and leadership development.
California’s Cookie Culture
California’s size and climate add a unique flavor to cookie season. In warmer regions, Thin Mints stored in the freezer are especially popular. In coastal communities, booths may pop up near beaches and boardwalks. In suburban neighborhoods, it’s common to see young scouts practicing their sales pitches door-to-door with parents nearby.
With a strong emphasis on supporting local organizations, many Californians make it a point to buy multiple boxes — some to enjoy now and some to freeze for later in the year.
Why It Matters for Families Moving to California
For families considering a move to California, traditions like Girl Scout cookie season highlight something important: strong community engagement. Despite being home to nearly 40 million residents, California maintains a strong local culture where schools, youth groups, and nonprofits play a central role in everyday life.
Cookie booths serve as small but meaningful reminders that even in large cities, neighborhoods remain connected.
When to Buy
Girl Scout cookie season in California typically runs from winter into early spring, though exact timing may vary slightly by region. Many troops now offer online ordering options in addition to in-person booths, making it even easier for busy families to participate.
Whether you’re a longtime resident or newly unpacking boxes in your California home, one thing remains certain: Thin Mints continue to lead the pack — and Girl Scout cookie season remains a sweet tradition that brings communities together across the Golden State.