On the 19th of January, National Popcorn Day bursts onto the scene, offering the delightful crunch that we all love to savour! This annual celebration pays homage to a treat that satiates cravings, whether it's day or night. Whether savory or sweet, buttered, caramel-coated, or plain, shaped into a candied ball: popcorn balls(my grandma made these when I was a kid), or mixed with nuts and chocolate, this timeless snack brings joy.
The term "corn" in Old English originally meant "grain," or, more specifically, the predominant grain cultivated in a particular region. When Native Americans introduced their primary grain, maize, to early Europeans, they appropriately adopted the term "corn."
As far back as the 16th century, the Aztecs incorporated popcorn into headdresses worn during ceremonies honouring Tlaloc, their god of maize and fertility. Early Spanish explorers were captivated by the corn that burst forth like a white flower. Popcorn gained popularity in the mid-1800s. It wasn't until Charles Cretors, a candy-store owner, invented a steam-powered popcorn-popping machine that this delectable treat became more widely available. By 1900, horse-drawn popcorn wagons were roaming the streets.
Around the same period, Louise Ruckheim added peanuts and molasses to popcorn, introducing Cracker Jack to the world. In 1908, the national anthem of baseball was born when Jack Norworth and Albert Von Tilzer wrote "Take Me out to the Ballgame," forever linking popcorn, especially Cracker Jack, to the sport.
Another love affair tied to popcorn may have had a slow start but eventually flourished. Today, it's hard to envision going to the movies without grabbing a box of buttered popcorn. Although popcorn was an economical snack choice, the expense of installing a machine and properly venting the building deterred many. Thanks to Glen W. Dickson, who invested the effort and money to place machines inside his theaters, the trend caught on. The microwave oven marked the next significant leap for popcorn. Percy Spencer, credited with its invention, used popcorn in his initial experiments during the microwave's development, opening up a new market for this beloved snack.
Billions of popcorn is devoured annually.
When ordering at a movie theater, ask for layered butter please, and if you make it at home, I highly recommend a stovetop popcorn popper.
Celebrate National Popcorn Day and every day in style with Popcorn Socks! These whimsical and comfortable socks are the perfect way to showcase your love for this beloved snack, adding a playful touch to your wardrobe while keeping your feet cozy. Let your feet pop with flavour and fun with Popcorn Socks!
