Pop Into 100 Days!
Reaching the 100th day of school is a beloved milestone in elementary education, and it’s the perfect moment to blend learning, nutrition, and school spirit into one joyful celebration. The Pop Into 100 Days activity does exactly that — turning the cafeteria into a lively learning space where students practice math, build healthy habits, and enjoy a shared schoolwide experience.
Schools typically celebrate the 100th day in late January or February, depending on the district calendar. Both the theme day and activity are designed for elementary students, though schools with mixed-age preschool programs can participate with proper supervision, since popcorn is considered safe for children ages 4–5 and up.
This activity brings academics right to the cafeteria table. Students count how many pieces of popcorn are in a 1 oz serving, giving them a hands-on math challenge that feels more like fun than work. It’s an easy way to reinforce classroom skills while helping students see the cafeteria as an extension of their learning environment.
Choosing whole‑grain popcorn instead of candy also models smart nutritional choices. It’s a simple swap that encourages healthier habits and shows students, and even teachers, that food-based activities don’t have to rely on sugary treats.
Our popcorn activity does more than teach math. It also:
Encourages conversation and participation
Builds positive associations with school meals
Creates photo-ready moments to share school pride and healthy habits
Invites food service teams into a schoolwide celebration
It’s a small project with a big impact — strengthening community, boosting engagement, and making lunchtime memorable.
Pop Into 100 Days Resource Folder
To make implementation simple, we’ve created sticker templates, posters, and step-by-step instructions. And even if you choose not to run the popcorn activity, you can still join the celebration with additional materials like 100 Days of School Foodservice graphics, social media captions, and line signage.