Covered trays of hot food line a table for a buffet in the kitchen, the front yard as well as the porch are festively decorated and the house is filled with family and friends of all ages, faces flush with excitement as the holiday tradition begins for 2021.

The smells and sounds of popcorn popping fill the air and a line of children in colorful costumes forms from the porch railing to the sidewalk.

The Popcorn House celebrates Halloween with the community in a big and unique way!

“We started out a few streets over in 1991,” explains Sherri Heppes, dressed as Wilma Flintstone. “We were blown away by how many children participate in Trick or Treating in Pine Bush and had to take apart the 100 bags of candy we had made in advance. We moved here in 1993 and gave out popcorn we had from concession stand sales. It was a hit.”

“Then, we decided to add in a way to give back to the community. We started accepting donations for a veteran’s group and today, we are collecting financial donations that we will use to purchase food for the New Prospect Food Pantry. Whatever is collected, we, the Popcorn House, will round up so if we have $323 from the community, we will make it $400.”

However, not everything always goes to plan.

“This year, we had our share of obstacles, including the need for a generator,” said Brenna Heppes, costumed as Jenny from Forrest Gump. “We had bags and popcorn but realized the popcorn machine was broken. Funny enough, Jenc’s Party Rental company had just reached out to us and asked if we needed anything and I had said, no. Now, we did. They supplied us with the popcorn machine and here we are with a line down the street.”

Asked how they know what they need each year, Sherri answered, “I’ve counted in the past and we have given out over 2,000 candies and usually about 800 bags of popcorn.”

What’s the best part of the Popcorn House? According to Sherri, “About 10 years ago, we started to have themes for everyone who participates from the Popcorn House, this year we are famous couples. The best part though - I just love how everyone comes together (behind the scenes). For some, this is their family holiday and tradition. Everyone pitches in and takes turns.”

Brenna adds, “Everyone has a great time. It really is great seeing everyone and the kids and the costumes.”

Once the event was over, Brenna confirmed the Popcorn House has accepted a large bin of food donations and will be able to purchase over $400 worth of non-perishable food items to be donated to the New Prospect Food Pantry. All treats – no tricks.