Yeah, me neither, but it would still be pretty cool to get a popcorn machine that is (or looks like it is) from a bygone era and have a good old time with it. This hub explains how and where to do that.

The Difference between a Popcorn Popper and a Popcorn Machine

When you are out shopping, be sure to remember that a popcorn machine is not a popcorn popper -- as far as popcorn terminology goes. Popcorn poppers pop relatively small amounts of popcorn and are lots of fun for small groups -- such as the average-size family.

On the other hand, popcorn machines are like some of us remember from going to the movies decades ago. Modern popcorn machines are built to make big loads of popcorn, but this hub is about the kind from days gone by -- antique-looking set-ups, typically fashioned like a cart with two wheels.

Those are fun. Let's talk about how to get one of those.

There are a number of ways to get something that looks like an antique popcorn machine, but the best way to get the real thing is to go to an antiques dealer.

Now, arriving upon a genuine antique popcorn machine at your local antiques dealer on your first visit would be a real find indeed. You will probably have to leave your name and number and check in with your dealer every couple weeks.

I wish to make clear that an antique popcorn machine would not be guaranteed to work -- actually make popcorn. Owning one of these is more about decor and nostalgia.

If having an antique looking machine that works and makes popcorn is essential, I recommend going for a new machine made to look like an "old" one. Described below, how to get one of those.

These types of stores are not doing the hottest lately, so perhaps you might go and help them a bit with your business. You know the stores that some areas have that sell billiard tables and pinball machines? Those places also sell antique looking popcorn machines sometimes. Look in your yellow pages under "Amusement Machines -- Retail", or something similar to that.

Many people trust Amazon.com for kitchen appliances. Larger, antique looking machines like the type we are discussing in this hub are also available from Amazon.

Online specialty retailers like ePopcorn.com will happily sell and ship a popcorn machine reminiscent of yesterday to you. Their site offers a variety of machines, starting at about $100.

If you are willing to pay top dollar, ePopcorn will even set you up with a customized popcorn cart built to your specifications.

Perhaps a popcorn popper would be more to your liking. Popcorn poppers come in a range of technologies -- from hot air to microwave. My personal favorite is the rather famous Whirley Pop from Wabash Valley Farms.