Seven Decades of Popcorn Memories
It’s no surprise that popcorn is one of America’s most consumed snacks and the ongoing popularity of it is no stranger to us. So as we celebrate our 70th anniversary this year, we invite you to come along on memory lane with us as we look back on all the ways popcorn has played a pivotal role in our story.
1950’s: Popcorn and the Spittoon
Popcorn was a prominent menu item at our original Bright Spot location, starting in 1953 when we opened. Ken Whiting recalls his great grandfather, coincidentally referred to as Pop, working there “with a spittoon right next to the popper so he could spit out his chewing tobacco.” Times sure have changed since 1953, but one thing remains the same: the memories, tastes and smells of popcorn.
1970’s: The Introduction of Food Carts
As many past and current employees know, various versions and flavors of popcorn have been sold at many of our locations on the Boardwalk throughout the years. But one location that is lesser known to current employees is a popcorn cart that we opened in the early ‘70s and operated for about 15 years. At the time, the idea of a food cart was a novel thing, and we were excited to be able to offer this experience to guests and serve popcorn and hand dipped ice cream! The cart sat about where our current Churros and Floats location is.
1980’s: Santa Cruz Popcorn Works On the Wharf
In 1984 we opened up a gourmet popcorn store on the then newly renovated wharf, called “Santa Cruz Popwork Works.” This location was in operation for about 5 - 7 years, and featured over 25 different flavors of popcorn.
2000’s: Hello Kettle Corn!
We introduced kettle corn on the Boardwalk around the year 2000, and it’s hard to believe that was over 20 years ago! We have been popping a lot of kettle corn since its launch and the salty and sweet item has been a steady seller on the Boardwalk ever since.
2010’s: Popcorn and Basketball
When we became the food and beverage operator at the Kaiser Permanente Arena when the Santa Cruz Warriors came to town, it was no question that popcorn would be on the menu. And for good reason! To this day popcorn is the #1 snack at the arena and basketball fans can’t get enough of the buttery treat.
2020’s: New and surprising flavors
Through out the years, we have always tried to find ways to put a twist on the traditional snack. One way we have done that is by fusing popcorn with brands and flavors that our guests love. In 2022 we started selling Cheetos popcorn at our Beachside Snacks location on the Boardwalk and the taste was an immediate hit. And most recently, we introduced ICEE Popcorn on National Popcorn Day 2023 as our newest product sold via Santa Cruz Fun Foods.
What will be the next big thing in the world of popcorn? Only time will tell. And we can’t wait to be part of it.