AMC launches its Popcorn Pass offering 50% off large popcorn daily through 2026 for Stubs members. The $29.99 annual perk boosts value for moviegoers.
AMC Theatres Launches New Popcorn Pass Offering 50% Off Large Popcorn Daily Through 2026
AMC Theatres is rolling out its most aggressive concessions perk yet with the introduction of the AMC Popcorn Pass, a new annual discount program designed to give moviegoers major savings on one of the most iconic parts of the cinema experience: popcorn. Priced at $29.99 per year, the pass grants AMC Stubs loyalty members a 50% discount on a large popcorn every day of the week, along with the program’s existing perk of one free refill per day.
Launching on Cyber Monday, December 1, the Popcorn Pass arrives at a strategically busy time for cinemas. With the holiday box office heating up thanks to Thanksgiving releases like Wicked: For Good and Zootopia 2, and upcoming titles including Five Nights at Freddy’s, the new SpongeBob movie, and the Christmas blockbuster Avatar: Fire and Ash, AMC is positioning the pass as a high-value offer during a season when attendance historically surges.
The new discount takes effect immediately and remains valid through December 31, 2026, giving members more than two years of daily savings. The company emphasized that the pass is open to all Stubs tiers, including the free basic membership level, meaning guests can access the deal without needing a paid subscription.
A Big Savings Opportunity for Popcorn Lovers
Popcorn remains the most popular concession item at AMC Theatres, even as menus expand to include items like chicken tenders, flatbreads, and pizza. In many AMC locations—particularly across the Los Angeles market—a large popcorn can cost up to $11.99, making the new 50% discount extremely attractive to frequent moviegoers.
The introduction of the Popcorn Pass also follows AMC CEO Adam Aron’s ongoing efforts to expand the company’s popcorn footprint. Aron previously attempted to bring AMC’s signature popcorn to retail stores, noting its deep cultural connection to the moviegoing experience. While retail expansion has been challenging, the Popcorn Pass represents another attempt to capitalize on popcorn’s enduring popularity.
Carrie Trotter, senior vice president of marketing for AMC, celebrated the new program in a company statement:
“The AMC Popcorn Pass makes it easier than ever for guests to enjoy the treat they love each time they visit. From families making memories to movie fans who never miss a blockbuster, this new offering delivers incredible value and adds even more enjoyment to every trip to the movies.”
Simple Rules but Some Limitations
Although the pass goes live on Cyber Monday, it can be purchased at any time throughout the year and will be active through the end of 2026 regardless of purchase date. However, there are a few conditions members must follow:
- Valid for in-theater purchases only — mobile app orders do not qualify.
- Must be used by the passholder — no sharing or transferring discounts.
- A photo ID is required to apply the discount at the register.
The pass is accepted at all AMC locations across the United States, making it one of the chain’s broadest concession discount offerings to date.
Replacing the AMC CLASSICS Annual Bucket Promotion
With the rollout of the Popcorn Pass, AMC is retiring its earlier concessions perk: the AMC CLASSICS Annual Bucket. That promotion allowed members at AMC CLASSICS theaters to purchase a yearly refillable bucket with a same-day refill benefit.
However, the bucket was only valid at AMC CLASSICS locations—a more affordable sub-brand of AMC largely inherited from the chain’s acquisition of Carmike Cinemas. Notably, there are no CLASSICS locations in California, limiting the usefulness of the program for many customers.
By contrast, the Popcorn Pass is chain-wide and applies to the larger, more mainstream AMC footprint, making it far more accessible to a wider audience.
Strategic Timing Ahead of a Packed Box Office
AMC’s new promotion arrives during an ongoing effort to boost theater attendance in the post-pandemic market. Moviegoing has been gradually rebounding, and concession sales remain a vital revenue stream for theaters nationwide. With major titles slated for release in the final weeks of 2024 and into early 2025, AMC is betting that a daily popcorn discount will help draw families, fans, and frequent visitors.
The timing also taps into holiday shopping patterns. Cyber Monday has become a major moment for entertainment deals—subscription discounts, gift card offers, and digital bundles. AMC is leaning into that energy by offering a concession-based perk that works year-round.
A Win for Families and Frequent Moviegoers
For families, the savings can add up quickly. A family that purchases large popcorn even once a week could save hundreds of dollars annually. For solo movie lovers who visit multiple times per month, the pass could pay for itself within weeks.
Moreover, the psychological appeal of discounted popcorn taps directly into the nostalgia and comfort associated with the moviegoing experience. The smell of fresh popcorn remains synonymous with theaters, and AMC appears to be leaning heavily on that emotional connection.
A Sign of Changing Theater Strategies
The Popcorn Pass reflects a broader industry trend toward subscription-style perks and value-driven programs. As streaming competition remains strong, theater chains are increasingly focused on enhancing the in-person experience with unique incentives.
AMC has already enjoyed success with its Stubs A-List program, which allows members to see multiple movies per week for a flat fee. The Popcorn Pass extends that subscription mindset into concessions—an area where theaters make a significant portion of their revenue.
A Tasty Deal With Long-Term Appeal
With more than two years of validity, flexible purchase options, and nationwide availability, the AMC Popcorn Pass represents one of the chain’s most consumer-friendly offerings yet. Whether it becomes the next major loyalty success story remains to be seen, but early reactions from movie fans suggest strong enthusiasm.
For now, AMC is giving popcorn lovers a reason to visit—and a reason to stay loyal.
