The Charming Vintage Popcorn Stand That You Can Only Find In Small-Town Nebraska
By Delana Lefevers|Published August 30, 2022
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Delana Lefevers
Author
As a lifelong Nebraskan, Delana loves discovering the many hidden treasures of her state. She has worked as a writer and editor since 2007. Delana's work has been featured on more than a dozen websites and in Nebraska Life Magazine.
Visit small-town Nebraska for a special treat that you just can’t help but love. Beatrice’s vintage popcorn stand was originally opened in 1937 by John and Stella Traubel, and although the current structure is a replica, it’s still a welcoming spot to stop for a salty or sweet snack.
If you were in Beatrice, Nebraska at any time between 1937 and 1987, you no doubt remember the iconic Traubel's Popcorn stand. The metal shack with its bright red details beckoned visitors with the delicious aroma of popping corn.
Traubel's Popcorn closed in 1987, but it was revived in 2014 by the non-profit group Community Possibilities. This replica stand was placed directly across the street from the original location.
The first Traubel's Popcorn stand now sits in the Gage County Historical Society, but the replica is a faithful reproduction of the itty-bitty booth with its enticing popcorn aromas. The cheerful letters across the front say "No Place Like Home," and "home" is just what you'll think of when you dig into a bag.
The available flavors vary, but you may find caramel, cheese, caramel with sea salt, s'mores, various flavored coatings, and of course, good old salted popcorn.
You can feel good about every purchase because, in addition to being absolutely delicious, Traubel's Popcorn helps support Beatrice and beyond. Community Possibilities arranges fundraisers throughout the year to benefit various non-profits.
Volunteers from the non-profits come in to help make the popcorn and run the stand during the fundraisers. It's a fun experience for the folks on both sides of that silver counter!
Take a look at the official Facebook page of Traubel’s Popcorn to keep up on when the stand is open and which flavors are available. Just follow your nose to find the adorably vintage corner stand!