NEW Rules To Follow If You Collect Disney Popcorn Buckets

Over the last few years, popcorn buckets have become some of Disney’s most popular souvenirs. From basic designs of iconic characters to seasonal designs and event exclusives, collectors have been going mad for them. However, if you’re planning on getting into the popcorn bucket game, there are some things to keep in mind.

In my 30+ years of buying Disney World souvenirs, I’ve seen popcorn buckets evolve from simple illustrated buckets to elaborately sculpted pieces that look more like mini statures and collectibles than they do food containers. Some even contain moving parts, lights, and sounds.

Whether you’re a popcorn bucket veteran or someone just getting into the hobby, definitely keep these things in mind.

Remember to Turn Off the Lights and Sounds

Let’s begin with those aforementioned light and sound effects. As fun as they are, it’s important to remember to turn them off. For starters, you don’t want to waste battery. Beyond that, you don’t want them going off in the middle of a dark ride or while seated at a restaurant, to say nothing of hearing mysterious sounds in the middle of the night in your hotel room or home.

Keep them Closed with these Bands

One of our favorite popcorn bucket hacks is the use of these colorful heat-resistant bands, which are available on Amazon.

Using a popcorn bucket band is easy, though the initial setup takes a minute. Simply remove the handle from your popcorn bucket, stretch the rubber band around the bucket, secure the lid, and replace the handle. Once it’s on, you can clip your popcorn bucket to your backpack without worrying about it popping open and making a mess. When you want to snack, just lift the band up, grab some popcorn, and carefully replace it to keep everything secure.

SHOP HERE

Do Your Research Beforehand!

As popcorn buckets have become more popular, some have become harder to get. Whether it’s LONG lines — we still remember the Figment release debacle — or event exclusive limited releases, it’s important to know when – and WHERE in the parks – you can find the bucket you seek.

Look into things beforehand to lock down all of that information: What merchandise locations the bucket is available at? Is Disney using a virtual queue? Are the buckets available for mobile order only? Are they limited to special events to like Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party? Know the answers to all of these questions BEFORE you head to the park to hunt.

Keep Limits in Mind

Once you know where to pick up your bucket, bear in mind how many you can buy. While it can be tempting to pick up extras as gifts for family members or friends, most in-demand popcorn buckets have a limit, usually two per guest.

Potential popcorn bucket collectors should keep these tips in mind during their next trip to a Disney park. Stay tuned to AllEars for more on Disney parks souvenirs.

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Do you collect popcorn buckets? Let us know in the comments below.