Lacey “G Souldier” Turner
ST. LOUIS, MO — What began as a vision in 2020 has grown into a powerful community staple, and now, it’s entering one of its most defining moments.
Tony Davis, Founder and CEO of Pop Pop Hurray, isn’t just selling gourmet popcorn—he’s building a movement rooted in community, opportunity, and resilience. From June 5–7, 2026, Pop Pop Hurray will host its highly anticipated “POP-A-THON,” a three-day rally designed to bring the St. Louis community together to protect local jobs, sustain small business operations, and continue pouring into the neighborhoods that helped build the brand.
With multiple locations, strong partnerships with schools, hospitals, nonprofits, and youth programs, Pop Pop Hurray has become more than a snack destination—it’s a symbol of what local business can mean when it’s done with purpose.
But like many small businesses across the country, the company is facing increasing pressure from inflation, rising operational costs, and shifting consumer habits.
Instead of making quiet cuts or laying off employees, Davis chose a different route—he turned to the people.
“It’s been a long six-year journey, but as you grow, there are growing pains,” Davis shared. “The economy is tough right now. We didn’t want to abruptly lay people off. So we wanted to really put it out to the community to rally around us. This is bigger than just a sale—this is a pivotal moment for Pop Pop Hurray. The POP-A-THON is a call to action. It’s about making a collective impact.”
That call to action is simple but powerful: show up.
Whether it’s buying a bag of popcorn, grabbing a $3 slushy, or simply spreading the word, every action contributes to something larger.
“A lot of people assume once a business opens and they come to the grand opening, that’s enough,” Davis explained. “But what people forget is that a business has to sustain. Coming back and continuing to support is important. Even small purchases keep us in business.”
That philosophy has been at the heart of Pop Pop Hurray since day one.
The company’s first location was built from the ground up—transforming an abandoned Quiznos into a vibrant, community-centered space. From there, Davis ensured that giving back wasn’t an afterthought—it was embedded in the business model.
“It was birthed in the spirit of giving back and working with youth and the community,” he said. “We were built into it. We love not only serving the community but being a part of it.”
That commitment is exactly why the stakes for this weekend are so high.
The POP-A-THON isn’t about charity—it’s about sustainability. It’s about ensuring that a Black-owned, community-driven business can continue to thrive, employ local residents, and invest in the next generation.
Over the course of the weekend, customers are encouraged to visit all Pop Pop Hurray locations:
●Friday: City Foundry – 3730 Foundry Way
●Saturday: Downtown – 1100 Locust St
●Sunday: Ferguson – 256 S. Florissant Rd
Bring friends. Bring family. Share the experience. Spread what the company proudly calls “Popcorn Love.”
Because in this moment, every purchase carries purpose.
As Davis puts it, the message is clear:
“We need your support—and we appreciate your support. I want everybody to come out, bring a friend, spread the word, and really show how we can show up for each other.”
In a time where many small businesses are quietly struggling, POP-A-THON stands as a loud, undeniable reminder: community still matters, and when people come together, they can keep more than a business alive—they can protect livelihoods, inspire growth, and build something that lasts far beyond a single weekend.
This isn’t just about popcorn.
This is about people.
And St. Louis now has an opportunity to show exactly what it’s made of.
