National Popcorn Day (January 19)
Popcorn has been a favorite snack for centuries, loved for its crunch, versatility, and ability to transform into both sweet and savory treats.
National Popcorn Day on January 19 is the perfect excuse to indulge in this classic snack in all its forms.
Whether you’re a fan of buttery movie theater popcorn, rich caramel corn, or adventurous flavors like sriracha bacon, this day is all about celebrating the joy of popcorn.
With a fascinating history stretching back thousands of years, popcorn remains a staple at movie nights, carnivals, and cozy evenings at home. This is one of the most delicious weird holidays in January!
When is the Holiday?
National Popcorn Day is celebrated annually on January 19th.
While some sources once placed it on January 31, it is now widely recognized on this date. This fun food holiday is the perfect excuse to enjoy popcorn in all its forms, whether sweet, salty, buttery, or uniquely flavored.
Who Invented It?
The origins of the day remain unclear, but it gained traction in the late 20th century.
The Calumet City Star and other publications first recognized January 31 as Popcorn Day in 1988, likely aligning with Super Bowl parties.
By 2003, newspaper mentions shifted the date to January 19, where it remains today.
The History of the Holiday
Popcorn has been enjoyed for thousands of years, with evidence suggesting it was first cultivated in Mexico around 5000 BC.
The Aztecs used popcorn for food and ceremonial headdresses, while early popcorn makers were discovered in Peru, dating back to 400 AD.
The modern popcorn industry took off in the late 19th century when Charles Cretors invented the steam-powered popcorn machine, making popcorn a street vendor staple.
By the 20th century, popcorn became a movie theater essential, surviving economic downturns like the Great Depression and later thriving with the rise of microwave popcorn in the 1980s.
Top 5 Facts About Popcorn
- Only one type of corn can pop – Zea mays everta is the only variety that produces popcorn.
- Americans consume over 13 billion quarts of popcorn annually, making the U.S. the top popcorn-consuming country.
- Nebraska produces the most popcorn in the United States.
- Popcorn was once called “Pearls” and was sold on street corners in the early 1900s.
- Popcorn sales dipped when VCRs became popular but surged again with the invention of microwave popcorn.
Activities to Celebrate
- Host a Popcorn Bar Party – Set up a DIY popcorn bar with different seasonings, toppings, and mix-ins like chocolate, nuts, and cheese powder.
- Try New Popcorn Flavors – Experiment with fun recipes like buffalo ranch, matcha white chocolate, or chili lime popcorn.
- Watch a Movie Marathon – No popcorn celebration is complete without a classic movie night with a big bowl of fresh popcorn.
- Make Popcorn Art and Crafts – Popcorn can be used to create garlands, DIY stress balls, or even fun science experiments with kids.
- Visit a Popcorn Store or Farm – Learn more about popcorn production and support local businesses by picking up gourmet flavors.
Related Recipes for the Holiday
Here are some delicious popcorn recipes to try:
- Duck Fat Popcorn – A rich, gourmet stovetop popcorn cooked in duck fat for an extra savory taste.
- Black and White Chocolate-Drizzled Popcorn – The perfect salty-sweet combo, drizzled with dark and white chocolate.
- Coconut Nutella Popcorn – A sweet, nutty treat with a perfect balance of chocolate and coconut flavors.
- Dairy-Free Dorito Popcorn – A crunchy, dairy-free version of nacho cheese popcorn using nutritional yeast and spices.
- Spiced Popcorn with Indian Flavors – Infused with cardamom, cumin, and coriander for a bold and fragrant taste.
- Parmesan Cheese Popcorn – A savory option loaded with Parmesan and a hint of garlic.
- Easy S’mores Popcorn – A fun twist on the campfire favorite with marshmallows, graham crackers, and chocolate.
- Chili Cheese Popcorn – A spicy, cheesy delight made with chili powder and sharp cheddar.
- Maple White Cheddar Popcorn – A surprising mix of sweet maple syrup and sharp cheddar cheese.
- Sriracha Bacon Popcorn – A bold, spicy, and smoky snack that’s perfect for spice lovers.
**This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate and a participant in other affiliate programs, I earn a commission on qualifying purchases.**
Links to Resources
- Free kid’s resources from Popcorn.org. Access fun and educational resources, including popcorn-themed activities, recipes, and lesson plans.
- Great Northern Popcorn Machine. A top-rated home popcorn machine for making theater-style popcorn in minutes, featuring a vintage-style design and powerful performance.
- Bob’s Red Mill Yellow Popcorn Kernels. High-quality, non-GMO popcorn kernels that pop into fluffy, delicious popcorn. Perfect for air poppers, stovetop, or microwave popping.
- Microwave Popcorn Popper. A convenient, reusable, and BPA-free silicone popper that allows you to make healthy popcorn in minutes without oil.
Related Holidays
National Popcorn Lovers Day on the second Thursday in March is a day dedicated to popcorn enthusiasts, celebrating the joy of fresh, hot popcorn in all its delicious variations.
National Drive In Movie Day on June 6 is a celebration of the nostalgic drive-in movie experience, where popcorn is an essential snack for moviegoers.
June 19th honors National Pets in Film Day, a perfect day to enjoy some fo your favorite popcorn.
Batman Day on the third Saturday in September is a tribute to the Dark Knight, who has been seen enjoying popcorn in comic book and animated adaptations.
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