If the only popcorn you’ve eaten came from a microwave or behind the concession stand of a movie theater, then it’s time to taste what you’ve been missing. There’s something sentimental about popcorn—and with so many new and unusual flavors on the market, snack time just became more adventurous.
Popcorn has some significance here in the Greater Peoria Area—much more than you may know. In 2012, Mason County was the number one producer of popcorn kernels in the NATION! Each year, Mason County is consistently the top producer in the state, which means our local popcorn is the freshest—and best—around.
So, whether you lean towards nostalgic classics or enjoy experimenting with new flavors, check out these locally-owned popcorn shops.
America’s Popcorn Shop {Morton} // America’s Popcorn Shop is a family-owned business using premium ingredients sourced entirely from the United States. The shop offers over 70 flavors of hand-crafted, gourmet popcorn. Be sure to try the Vermont Maple, the Salt and Vinegar, and the Morton Mix (a Pumpkin Capital of the World staple, which mixes Caramel and Pumpkin Popcorn).
Aunt Em’s Gourmet Popcorn {Deer Creek} // Aunt Em’s specializes in full-flavored popcorn products with few if any artificial ingredients. With seven nationally-recognized flavors, Aunt Em’s Gourmet Popcorn specializes in developing and making store-brand products at competitive prices for nationally known retailers.
Bluhaven Farm {Speer} // Bluhaven is a family-owned farm famous for producing homegrown gourmet popcorn. Order online for the freshest popcorn popcorn kernels on the market. All orders can be shipped, locally delivered, or pick-up at the farm.
Holland’s Caramel Corn {Washington} // Holland’s Caramel Corn is a family-owned shop located on Historic Washington Square. Specializing in gourmet popcorn, made from scratch daily. Known for their caramel corn, Holland’s is a local treasure. Be sure to try their other one-of-a-kind flavors too.
She-Pop Gourmet Popcorn {Peoria} // This fun new shop in Peoria specializes in delicious homemade popcorn made fresh and mixed exactly as you wish. Stop in for a great quality product—we recommend the She-Pop Candy and the Nach-yo Taco flavors—they’re poppin'!
The Popcorn Shoppe {Peoria} // The Popcorn Shoppe is a premier popcorn store popping an array of unique flavors and mixes. We recommend the Rainbow Marshmallow Crunch, the Garlic Parmesan, and the River City Mix. But don’t take our word for it—check out the “try-before-you-buy” wall to find your next favorite snack.
The Sweet Shoppe {Canton} // This old-fashioned sweet shop has just about anything you could imagine—including an amazing selection of freshly-popped popcorn. Try the Chicago Style Corn or the classic Caramel Corn. Flavors are always changing, so keep a lookout.
Young’s Popcorn Heaven {Peoria} // For six years in a row, Popcorn Heaven has won The Best of the Best award in the Gourmet Popcorn category from the Peoria Journal Star. The Peoria Area has fallen in love with Popcorn Heaven and their 55+ flavors! Try the Peanut Butter Chocolate, the Cheddar Bliss, which is a medley of savory cheesy flavors, and the Smoky Bar-B-Que!
Still can’t get enough? Head over to the Manito Popcorn Festival! This event is held during the last weekend of August. For more festival details, click here
