For puzzle enthusiasts across the globe, the first day of 2026 brought a delightful challenge with The New York Times’ Strands puzzle. While many were still recovering from New Year celebrations, word lovers were already busy deciphering the day’s theme: “Not your average joe.” As reported by CNET, this clever phrase was a clear nod to coffee, that beloved beverage which fuels mornings and late nights alike. The puzzle, released at midnight in each player’s time zone, quickly became the talk of online communities dedicated to wordplay and logic games.
Strands, The New York Times’ latest addition to its suite of brain teasers, was first introduced in May 2024. Since then, it has attracted a loyal following, thanks to its unique blend of word search and crossword mechanics. According to NBC News, the game presents players with a 6x4 letter grid and a daily theme, challenging them to find interconnected words that fit the topic. Unlike traditional crosswords, Strands allows words to snake across the board in any direction, even diagonally, as long as each letter is used exactly once by the time the puzzle is solved.
On January 1, 2026, the Strands puzzle’s theme required solvers to think of words associated with coffee—not just the drink itself, but its many nuanced qualities. As CNET detailed, the central “spangram” (a word that stretches from one side of the board to the other) was none other than “COFFEE.” To uncover it, players had to start from the letter “C” located five letters down on the far-left side of the grid, then wind their way across. The challenge didn’t end there; the puzzle also demanded the discovery of several descriptive words that capture the essence of a perfect cup of joe.
The non-spangram answers for the day’s puzzle, as listed by both CNET and NBC News, included “BOLD,” “NUTTY,” “BITTER,” “SMOOTH,” “STRONG,” “AROMATIC,” and “VELVETY.” Each of these words conjures a different sensory experience, reflecting the rich vocabulary aficionados use to describe their favorite brews. Whether you prefer a bold, robust flavor or something smooth and velvety, the puzzle’s solutions paid homage to the diversity and complexity of coffee culture.
The New York Times’ own Strands Sidekick, a daily companion article designed to support solvers, confirmed that the January 1 puzzle was rated “easy” by paid testers. While some players might have breezed through the challenge, others found themselves reaching for hints. The Sidekick encouraged readers to share their experiences, swap stories, and even connect with others in the comments section. “Let us point you in the right direction,” the article invited, emphasizing the sense of community that has grown around Strands since its launch.
For newcomers, the Sidekick also offered a quick primer on how Strands works. The rules are simple but subtly demanding: words cannot overlap, and every letter on the board must be used to complete the puzzle. Players are encouraged to find any words of four letters or more, which in turn help unlock hints about the theme words. This mechanic adds an extra layer of strategy, rewarding both broad vocabulary and lateral thinking.
As NBC News explained, the “spangram” is the holy grail for Strands players. Each puzzle contains one such word, always connected to the day’s theme, and it must stretch from one side of the board to the other—either horizontally or vertically. On January 1, 2026, “COFFEE” was the answer to that challenge, fitting the theme perfectly and satisfying solvers who thrive on both wordplay and clever clues.
Beyond the fun of daily puzzles, Strands has carved out a niche for itself by fostering a vibrant online community. The New York Times encourages feedback and discussion, inviting players to email their thoughts or report technical issues directly through the game’s settings. Social media, too, has played a role, with the Games team now active on Instagram, sharing tips, behind-the-scenes content, and more. For those who crave a deeper dive into their puzzling prowess, a New York Times Games subscription unlocks detailed performance analytics and statistics, adding a competitive edge for the most devoted fans.
Returning to the January 1 puzzle, the theme “Not your average joe” proved to be an apt description. According to CNET, the puzzle’s answers highlighted the many ways coffee can be described and enjoyed. From the “aromatic” scent that greets you in the morning to the “nutty” undertones of a specialty roast, each word in the solution set invited players to savor the language of coffee as much as the drink itself. The inclusion of “strong” and “bitter” acknowledged those who prefer their coffee with a punch, while “smooth” and “velvety” catered to fans of a gentler brew.
For those who struggled, the Sidekick’s hints were a welcome lifeline. The article offered to reveal the first letter or direction of travel for up to three theme words, helping players who might have been stumped by the puzzle’s more challenging clues. And, as always, the Sidekick reminded everyone to be kind and civil in the comments—a nod to the game’s growing, supportive fanbase.
Strands isn’t just about individual achievement; it’s about coming together to celebrate language, logic, and the thrill of discovery. As NBC News pointed out, the game is free to play, making it accessible to anyone with a love for words. But for those who want to track their progress or compete with friends, subscribing to The New York Times offers a richer, more immersive experience.
Looking back at some of the toughest Strands puzzles in recent weeks, CNET highlighted themes that ranged from “Dated slang” to “Thar she blows!” and “Off the hook,” each requiring a different set of knowledge and skills. But on January 1, 2026, it was all about coffee—a universal theme with a flavor for everyone.
The New York Times’ Strands puzzle continues to captivate word lovers, offering daily challenges that are as rewarding as they are entertaining. With its blend of clever themes, community engagement, and ever-evolving mechanics, Strands is quickly becoming a staple for puzzle fans everywhere. And on this New Year’s Day, “COFFEE” was the word that brought everyone together—one cup, and one clue, at a time.
