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On what day is National Popcorn Day celebrated? January 19

What is National Popcorn Day? This is a day that celebrates the versatility of popcorn. This snack can be sweet or savory, in a bag or rolled into a ball, mixed in with candy for a trail mix, covered in caramel, smothered in butter at a movie theater and more!

Here are some fun facts about popcorn:

  • During the 16th century, popcorn was used in headdresses worn during Aztec ceremonies honoring Tlaloc, their god of maize and fertility. Early Spanish explorers were fascinated by the corn that burst into what looked like a white flower.
  • Popcorn was introduced to the United Stated in the 1800s. Charles Cretors, a candy-store owner, developed a machine for popping corn with steam. By 1900, he had horse-drawn popcorn wagons selling the treat on the streets of Chicago.
  • In 1908, Jack Norworth and Albert Von Tilzer wrote Take Me out to the Ballgame. From that point on, Cracker Jacks became synonymous with the game.
  • Nebraska leads the corn belt in popcorn production.
  • Americans eat more popcorn than any other country. Most of the popcorn eaten around the world is grown in the United States.
  • Popcorn kernels can pop up to 3 feet in the air.
  • The world’s largest popcorn ball was 12 feet in diameter and weighed 5,000 pounds. It required 2,000 pounds of corn, 40,000 pounds of sugar, 280 gallons of corn syrup, and 400 gallons of water to create.
  • Popped popcorn comes in two shapes: snowflake or mushroom. Because snowflake shaped popcorn is bigger, movie theaters typically sell that shape.
  • Unpopped popcorn kernels are called “spinsters” or “old maids.” Quality popcorn should produce 98% popped kernels with under 2% being spinsters.

Who founded this day? The creator of National Popcorn Day is unknown.

What is the hashtag? Use #NationalPopcornDay when posting to social media.

How to celebrate: Celebrating National Popcorn Day is easy! Eat popcorn with whatever toppings you prefer.

Here are some topping combinations to get you started:

  • Salt and Pepper
  • Butter…lots and lots of butter
  • Salt and Vinegar Seasoning
  • Smoked Paprika and Parsley
  • Garlic and Parmesan
  • Cinnamon Sugar
  • Parmesan and Rosemary
  • M&Ms
  • Chocolate chips

What other national days are there for snacks?

  • February 24- National Tortilla Chip Day
  • March 23- National Chip and Dip Day
  • April 26- National Pretzel Day
  • June 12- National Jerky Day
  • August 31- National Trail Mix Day

There are many other national days relating to snacks. In fact, National Day Archives has a separate category just for food!