National Popcorn Day

Next celebratedTuesday, January 19, 2027

Celebrate National Popcorn Day with a movie night and delicious popcorn recipes - it's the perfect way to make memories with your loved ones!

See how to celebrate

Countdown to the day

--DAYS

--HRS

--MIN

--SEC

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar TeamHave an update or spot an error?

YEARLY DATEJanuary 19

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYFood

SUBCATEGORYSnacks

INTRO

Introduction

Prepare to celebrate National Popcorn Day on January 19th! Who doesn't love the smell of freshly popped popcorn? This popular snack has been around for centuries, with some evidence suggesting that it was consumed by the ancient Aztecs and Incas. In recent years, popcorn has become a movie theater staple as well as an everyday treat enjoyed by people all over the world.

DEALS & OFFERS

2026’s deals have wrapped

See who celebrated this year, and browse offers from past years.

Offers wrapped for 2026

National Popcorn Day ran on January 19. Here’s who celebrated with offers this year.

6 brands offered a deal this year

TIMELINE

National Popcorn Day Timeline

Invention of Popcorn

The credit for the invention of popcorn is given to the Incas who were using it even in 4700 BC.

Charles Cretors' Popcorn Machine

Charles Cretors introduces the first commercial popcorn machine at the Chicago's Columbian Exposition.

Home Popcorn Popping Innovation

The first home popcorn popping machine is introduced by Charles T. Manley.

Link with Motion Picture Industry

Popcorn becomes synonymous with movie-watching as it turns out to be an affordable treat during the Great Depression.

Microwave Popcorn Era Begins

The 1980s herald the era of microwave popcorn, revolutionizing at-home popcorn consumption.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate National Popcorn Day

Create popcorn art

Nothing says "National Popcorn Day" like making a popcorn masterpiece! Use all of your favorite flavors, shapes, and colors to create a one of a kind culinary work of art.

THROW

Throw a popcorn party

Invite all your friends over for a fun and festive popcorn party! Get creative with the toppings and have a contest to see who can come up with the most interesting combination.

Go on a popcorn crawl

Love to snack? Go on an adventure around town to sample all the different kinds of popcorn you can find. Make sure to bring along friends or family so they can join in the fun.

MAKE

Make your own popcorn balls

Pop some corn, mix it with melted butter and marshmallows, shape into balls, and dip them in melted chocolate for a delicious treat that's perfect for National Popcorn Day.

VISIT

Visit a local movie theater

What better way to celebrate National Popcorn Day than by going to the movies? Grab some popcorn and enjoy your favorite flick with friends or family.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why We Love National Popcorn Day

Popcorn is easy to make

Making popcorn couldn't be any easier. All you need are some kernels, oil, and heat - that's it! Plus, you can customize it however you like - add cheese powder, nutritional yeast, or chili flakes for an extra kick!

Popcorn is a tasty snack

Popcorn is a delicious treat that can be enjoyed by itself or with different flavors. You can have it plain, coated with caramel, drizzled in melted chocolate or seasoned with your favorite spices - there's a flavor for everyone!

Popcorn is a healthy snack option

Popcorn is a great source of fiber and is low in calories, so you can enjoy without the guilt! It's also free from cholesterol and saturated fat, making it an ideal snack for those looking to maintain a healthy weight.

Related holidays

THU

Mar 2026

Food

Popcorn Lover’s Day

A food observance on the second Thursday in March celebrating popcorn as a versatile, healthy snack and promoting its enjoyment in various flavors.

Business of Popping Corn Day

Get your kernels ready and pop into Business of Popping Corn Day! From classic buttery popcorn to unique flavors, indulge in this delicious celebration.

National Caramel Popcorn Day

Get ready to satisfy your sweet and salty cravings on National Caramel Popcorn Day! With endless flavors and toppings, the snacking possibilities are endless.

285Read

TUE

Jul 2026