National Popcorn Day 2026: Where to score free popcorn and deals at AMC, Cinemark and more

National Popcorn Day gives snack lovers the perfect excuse to indulge, and in 2026, theaters across the U.S. are marking the occasion with freebies, discounts, and creative promotions. With the holiday landing on a long weekend, the timing could not be better.

National Popcorn Day 2026 falls on January 19, with movie theaters nationwide offering free popcorn and discounts.

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When is National Popcorn Day in 2026?

National Popcorn Day falls on Monday, January 19, 2026. The date coincides with Martin Luther King Day, a federal holiday, giving many Americans extra time to head to the movies. Movie theater chains are leaning into the moment, offering special popcorn deals that run across the weekend rather than just one day.

Whether you prefer extra butter, salty classics, or sweet add-ins like M&M’s or Raisinets, National Popcorn Day offers a chance to enjoy the iconic snack for less.


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What is Cinemark offering for National Popcorn Day?

Cinemark is bringing back one of its most talked-about promotions: the Bring Your Own Bucket event. From Sunday, January 18, through Monday, January 19, moviegoers can pay $5 to fill a personal container of their choice with popcorn, as long as it holds up to 400 ounces, as per a report by USA Today and The Mirror.

This year, Cinemark is also teaming up with Lowe’s. According to a news release, guests who bring a Lowe’s 5-gallon blue bucket to any Cinemark location on January 18 or 19 can have it filled with popcorn for $5. The offer includes one fill per guest, and theaters will provide a complimentary food-grade liner.

The release states: “This year we’re teaming up with Lowe’s to make National Popcorn Day even bigger. Grab a Lowe’s 5-gallon blue bucket from your local store, bring it to any Cinemark on January 18 or 19, and we’ll fill it with popcorn for just 5 dollars.”

Cinemark is also offering 10% off online gift cards during the same period. Movie Club members can earn 10,000 bonus points, and the chain is promoting an online game called Catch the Popcorn, where winners may receive a year of free popcorn. Social media followers also have chances to win free large popcorn, as per a report by USA Today and The Mirror.


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Are there free popcorn deals at AMC?

AMC is celebrating National Popcorn Day with perks aimed at its loyal customers. From Friday, January 16, through Monday, January 19, moviegoers who have AMC’s popcorn pass will receive their first large popcorn for free.

The popcorn pass costs $29.99 per year, plus tax, and allows members to redeem popcorn benefits throughout the year. AMC is also selling popcorn-themed collectibles during the promotion, including plushies and figures inspired by the theater snack.

Separately, AMC introduced a new popcorn offer in 2026. Subscribers to the Popcorn Pass can receive 50% off a large popcorn every day, adding long-term value beyond National Popcorn Day itself, as per a report by USA Today and The Mirror.



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How can Regal moviegoers get free popcorn?

Regal Cinemas is encouraging movie fans to have fun with costumes. On Monday, January 19, guests who show up dressed in costume will receive a free large popcorn.

The promotion goes a step further online. People who post a photo of themselves in costume at a Regal location and tag @RegalMovies on social media will be entered for a chance to win three free months of Regal Unlimited. Winners will be selected starting at 10 a.m. ET on January 20, with rules and restrictions applying.

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What other theaters are offering popcorn deals?

Several other theater chains are also taking part in National Popcorn Day celebrations:

Cineplex is offering a free small popcorn with a ticket purchase from Friday, January 16, through Monday, January 19.

Marcus Theatres will give guests a free large popcorn on Monday, January 19, along with scratch-off coupons for concession prizes.

B & B Theatres is offering Backstage Pass Members a free regular popcorn with a ticket purchase on January 19.

Harkins Theatres is offering 50% off any size popcorn on January 19. Harkins Awards Members who participate will also receive a free small popcorn in February.

Today, Americans eat about 13 billion quarts of popcorn each year, more than any other country. Its popularity has led theaters and theme parks to release elaborate popcorn buckets inspired by movies and attractions.

FAQs

When is National Popcorn Day 2026?
It is celebrated on Monday, January 19, which also falls on Martin Luther King Day.

Which theaters have popcorn deals?
Cinemark, AMC, Regal, and several other chains are offering free or discounted popcorn promotions.