Some things never change, and that includes the irresistible allure of movie theater snacks. While many favorites from the 1950s and ’60s remain popular today, some treats have vanished, leaving behind fond memories. Let’s dive into the top concessions of the era that defined the cinematic snacking experience.
1. Popcorn
Popcorn has been a movie theater staple since the 1930s, thanks to its affordability and easy-to-eat nature. By the 1950s, it had cemented its place as the ultimate cinema snack, beloved for its crunchy, buttery appeal.
2. Candy Bars
Classic candy bars like Milky Way, Snickers, and M&M’s became theater essentials in the 1950s. Affordable and easy to eat in the dark, these sweet treats provided the perfect sugar boost for moviegoers.
3. Ice Cream
Whether it was boxed treats like Eskimo Pies or cones sold in theaters, ice cream was a hit in the 1950s and ’60s. Some cinemas even introduced soft serve, making it a cool complement to salty popcorn.
4. Hotdogs
Borrowing their popularity from sports stadiums, hotdogs became a favorite at theaters. Portable and filling, they offered moviegoers a savory, meal-like option at a budget-friendly price.
5. Soda
With vending machines and soda fountains booming in the 1950s, sodas like Coca-Cola and Pepsi quickly became cinema staples. Their fizzy sweetness perfectly balanced salty snacks like popcorn and hotdogs.
6. Milk Duds
Milk Duds, with their chewy caramel centers coated in chocolate, were a no-mess candy perfect for the movies. Introduced in the 1920s, they remained a favorite throughout the 1950s.
7. Junior Mints
For those looking for a less sugary option, Junior Mints delivered a refreshing minty flavor. First introduced in the 1940s, they gained even more popularity in the following decades.
8. Twizzlers and Licorice
Licorice provided a “slow-snacking” experience, making treats like Twizzlers perfect for long films. Their chewy texture and slightly less sweet flavor made them a popular choice.
9. Caramel Corn
Combining the crunch of popcorn with a caramel coating, caramel corn became a dream for snackers who couldn’t choose between sweet and salty.
10. Choc-Top Ice Cream Cones
By the 1960s, choc-top cones—ice cream dipped in hardened chocolate—were a hit, especially among kids. The mix of creamy ice cream, chocolate crunch, and a salty cone made for a perfect indulgence.
11. Peanut M&Ms
Debuting in the 1950s, Peanut M&Ms were a heartier alternative to the original. Their bite-sized convenience and satisfying crunch made them an instant favorite.
12. Butter-Flavored Popcorn
The introduction of butter-flavored oil in the 1950s allowed theaters to offer buttery popcorn without the hassle of real butter. It quickly became an indulgent upgrade to the classic snack.
13. Salt Water Taffy
A favorite in coastal areas, salt water taffy brought a chewy, fruity option to theaters. Its bright wrappers and long-lasting chew made it a hit with kids and adults alike.
14. Frozen Candy Bars
Frozen candy bars emerged in the 1960s as a summer favorite. Slower to eat and delightfully cold, they added a fun twist to traditional candy options.
15. Fruit Snacks
By the 1960s, fruit-flavored snacks like Starburst (originally Opal Fruits) gained traction. Their chewy, fruity flavors offered a refreshing break from chocolate-heavy options.
Which of these timeless snacks would you bring back to modern theaters?
