Minnesota Moviegoers: Your Guide to National Popcorn Day Deals

Popcorn is one of the oldest known human snacks, with samples found by archaeologists dating back more than 5,000 years. Given that kind of legacy, it makes perfect sense that popcorn gets its own day of celebration.

That day is coming up fast. In 2003, January 19 was officially declared National Popcorn Day. Backed by the National Popcorn Board, the date stuck, and over the years it has become a surprisingly big deal, especially for movie theaters.

Popcorn Is the Real Star of the Movies

Roughly 70 percent of all popcorn is enjoyed at home. The rest gets eaten at stadiums, arenas, and of course movie theaters. For theaters, popcorn is not just a snack, it is survival.

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Most theaters make very little money on ticket sales, with as much as 90 percent going back to movie studios. Concessions are what keep the lights on, the projectors running, and the doors open. That makes National Popcorn Day less of a gimmick and more of a love letter to the snack that keeps cinema alive.

Marcus Theatres Goes Big in Minnesota

One of Minnesota’s largest theater chains is leaning all the way in. Marcus Theatres is celebrating National Popcorn Day by offering all moviegoers a free popcorn, and this is not a small courtesy cup. Marcus is giving out a full large popcorn.

On top of that, guests will receive a scratch-off card with chances to win concession prizes. Those prizes include free combo deals with beverages and popcorn, free candy, and even free ICEEs. Marcus locations will also feature popcorn themed games and activities throughout the day.

What About AMC Theatres?

Another popular chain with locations across Minnesota and Wisconsin, AMC Theatres, has not announced a specific deal for National Popcorn Day in 2026. That said, fans should not be surprised if the chain ties the day into its Popcorn Pass.

The Popcorn Pass offers members 50 percent off popcorn year round for $29.99, and National Popcorn Day would be a natural moment to promote it. Even without a confirmed deal, popcorn lovers will still have plenty of reason to celebrate, especially with free tubs popping up across the state.