Need an Extra Incentive to Go to the Movies? National Popcorn Day Is Here to Help

No, no, we don’t yet know if Cinemark is again offering a Bring Your Own Bucket scheme as part of National Popcorn Day, but trust us, we’re on the case. For now: the promise of crunchy, salty, buttery goodness at a discounted rate (or better) at your favorite movie theater.

For the second year in a row, Cinema United (formerly known as the National Association of Theatre Owners) and The Cinema Foundation is launching National Popcorn Day, billed as an “annual nationwide celebration of America’s favorite movie snack” on Monday, January 19. The one-day only event will bring together participating theaters to feature unique promotions (buckets, yes?), discounts, and other offers on delicious movie theater popcorn.

“National Popcorn Day is one of those moments that reminds us why people love going to the movies,” said Michael O’Leary, President and CEO of Cinema United in an official statement. “It’s about sharing a big screen experience, and enjoying the amazing combination of movies and popcorn together that you simply can’t replicate anywhere else.”

Fandango, the nation’s leading online ticketing service, has joined the campaign for another year as its presenting sponsor.

“We’re excited to once again partner with The Cinema Foundation to celebrate National Popcorn Day in theater nationwide on January 19,” said Jerramy Hainline, EVP of Fandango, in his own statement. “The theatrical experience is truly unmatched, and concessions like popcorn play a big role in making every theater visit memorable to fans, whether they are watching the latest blockbuster, a beloved re-release, or even a live event. We’re proud to support exhibitors by helping fans enjoy their favorite theater snacks at a great value.”

According to a recent Fandango study of more than 6,000 moviegoers, 96 percent of general ticket buyers said they purchased concessions during their trip to the movies, with popcorn being one of the most popular items.

Last year’s inaugural event saw a variety of offers popping off across various movie theater chains, from Cinemark’s bucket scheme to Regal’s offer of free popcorn to any patron who dressed up in a movie-related costume and Rogers’ refreshingly normal gift of a free popcorn with any drink purchase.

To find participating theaters and their various popcorn-centric offers, visit your local movie theater’s website or app, or head to the Cinema Foundation’s website or Fandango proper.