The northwest Iowa town that calls itself the “popcorn capital of the world” is honoring its top export. Schaller Popcorn Days runs through tomorrow (Saturday) with traditional events including a carnival, a parade, street dances and a tractor show — with free popcorn for everyone all weekend. Organizer Kris Bloyer was asked how much popcorn they’ll consume, and says she has not idea, although she says it seems like they’re always popping corn. The largest employer in the Sac County town of 786 is Jolly Time Popcorn, which produces tens of thousands of bags of microwave popcorn each week. Bloyer says she doesn’t know of anyone in town, or anywhere else, who doesn’t like popcorn. She says the residents of Schaller prepare it many different ways. While kettle corn is popular, a new flavor has just come out — carmel-apple — though Bloyer says she prefers the traditional butter-and-salt variety. Royalty is also involved, of course. Schaller’s residents will be electing a Popcorn Days Queen and a court who will preside over all of the weekend’s hoppin’ and poppin’ festivities.
