In honor of National Popcorn Day, today we highlight Mason County, Illinois. Mason County fields include nearly 20,000 acres of land dedicated towards producing popcorn, more than any other county nationwide.

Located in Central Illinois between Peoria and Springfield, Mason County is located in what many call the “Imperial Valley of the Midwest.” In contrast to other farming areas around the state, Mason County fields include a large amount of sand in their soil. With modern irrigation technology, the fields have become plentiful for crops not commonly found in Illinois, including popcorn.

Learn more:
Happy National Popcorn Day: Fun Facts About the Popular Snack
Nation’s top popcorn-producing county in Illinois (AgriNews)