How to Set-up a DIY Popcorn Bar

I love to set up an interactive element anytime I’m hosting a get together and setting up a DIY Popcorn Bar is a fun, easy, and fairly inexpensive one!

1. Choose Your Popcorn Base

• Plain popcorn: Air-popped or lightly salted for versatility. If you want to buy pre-popped Costco has a large bag of simply popcorn that’s perfect! If you want to pop popcorn you can get literally 8 pounds of kernels for $13 to pop on the stove or in a popcorn maker. I swear by my popcorn maker but to make it on the stove just add 2 tablespoons of coconut oil and 1/2 cup of kernels to a pot, cover the pot, and wait for the popcorn to pop!
• Provide enough for each guest to make their own creations (estimate about 2-3 cups per person).

2. Offer Toppings (obviously?)

Divide your toppings into categories for a mix-and-match experience:

Savory Toppings

• Grated cheese (parmesan or cheddar powder)
• Spices (garlic powder, chili powder, paprika, ranch seasoning)
• Nutritional yeast for a cheesy, vegan option

Sweet Toppings

• Cinnamon sugar
• Mini chocolate chips or M&Ms
• Sprinkles
• Caramel or toffee drizzle

Specialty Sauces

• Melted butter
• Chocolate sauce
• Marshmallow fluff

3. Provide Serving Supplies

• Popcorn containers: Small bowls, paper bags, or themed cups (disposable) and (reusable)
• Scoops and spoons: For hygienic serving.
• Labels: Clearly mark each topping to avoid confusion (printable labels can make it festive!).

5. Decorate Your Station

• Theme colors: Use tablecloths or napkins in your palette (e.g., pink, red, gold for galentine’s day).
• Signs: Create a cute sign that says “Poppin’ Good Time”

6. Keep It Tidy

• Provide napkins or wet wipes for sticky fingers.
• Set out a trash bin nearby for easy cleanup.

 

I set up my DIY popcorn bar for Galentine’s Day Pajama party, and I have 9 other theme ideas for you to choose from here too!