It seems like there are celebrations for any old object these days. Today (January 19), America celebrates National Popcorn Day.

Since they first celebrated the foodstuff in 1988, Americans consume 13 billion quarts of popcorn a year, more than any other country in the world. A majority of the popcorn produced in the world is grown in the United States, with Nebraska producing the most popcorn in the country.

Evidence suggests popcorn maize was farmed in Inca and Peruvian societies as early as 300 BC, and anecdotally Christopher Columbus is thought to have introduced popcorn to Europe in the late 15th Century.

In 2016 the most popular popcorn flavours in the UK were Sweet & Salty, Sweet, Toffee and Salty. Almost 80% of all popcorn sales come just from these four flavours.

Popcorn comes in two basic shapes, ‘butterfly flake’ and ‘mushroom (ball)’. ‘Mushroom’ shaped popcorn is more commonly used for toffee and caramel flavours, whereas ‘butterfly’ is more commonly used for savoury flavours.

Although nothing beats the smell of freshly made popcorn when you approach the foyer, cinemagoers may recognise Joe & Seph’s popcorn when they pay their nearest picture house a visit. The company was formed in 2010 and have won a selection of awards, including over 40 Great Taste Awards from the Guild of Fine Food, nicknamed the ‘Oscars of the food world’.

The company supply a variety of gourmet popcorn across the UK, with unusual flavours like Marmite, Mince Pie, Blue Cheese, Walnut & Celery and the James Bond-themed Dry Martini.

The relationship between popcorn and cinemas started off on the wrong foot when they felt that the vendors outside the premises didn’t match the upper-class atmosphere they were aiming for. This all changed in the 1920’s when theatre owners tolerated the popcorn stands outside, then they began to sell licenses to the popcorn vendors. Finally they decided to cut out the middleman and sell popcorn themselves.

Today’s nostalgia section takes a look at how popcorn has affected Cumbrians throughout the years, whether it was just to enjoy the new Hollywood release with or if it helped raise money for charity. Have a look to see if you recognise anyone in the images.