GREAT FALLS — After a nearly year long process, The Popcorn Colonel in Great Falls is officially back. The popcorn shop had been closed since a fire broke out near the shop on Christmas Eve last year.
Owner Gary Hochberger said the fire was out quickly after it started, and the flames didn’t do enough damage to force them to close their doors. Rather, the toxic fumes in the smoke that was released into the building led to a lengthy process to get back to serving popcorn to the public.
After 11 months of insurance claims, contracting, and preparing -- the Colonel finally made his return this week.
Hochberger said, even despite the pandemic, keeping their doors closed permanently was never on the table. “Not at all. I think because of the response from the community,” he explained. “They kept saying 'we want you back, we need you back.'”
The shop posted on Facebook:
We will be open 10am-6pm Monday through Wednesday, closed for Thanksgiving, 10am-6pm Friday, and 10am-4pm on Saturday.
If you would like to place an order for pick up, we do ask you call ahead. We will only be accepting pick up orders over the phone, not email, because we are short staffed this year.
Things will also look a bit different because of the new mandated restrictions. It's our first time being open during this crazy year too, so please be patient while we figure things out. Although exhausted from working long days getting ready, we are so excited to see everyone today!
Don't forget, masks are required to enter the store. Let's take care of each other and kick off the holiday season on the right foot!
The Popcorn Colonel is at 900 9th Street South.
