What $20 Will Get You at the Movies in the USA, Canada, UK, and Australia

Date night at the movies has been a classic go-to for couples for almost forever. Whether you’re sharing a bag of popcorn while laughing through a rom-com or nervously gripping each other’s hands during a thriller, there’s something special about cozying up in front of the big screen. But let’s be real, going to the movies can be a pricey affair, especially when you throw in some snacks. So, what can $20 get you when it comes to movie food? Let’s take a trip across four countries – the USA, Canada, the UK, and Australia – to see what date-night snacks you can afford for that budget. Ready to dig in?

USA: The Land of Big Screens and Big Snacks

In the USA, movie theaters are known for their giant portions, and popcorn is king! But can $20 really cover a whole date night snack experience? Let’s break it down:

Popcorn (Large): The quintessential movie snack! A large popcorn at most theaters, including the famous AMC Theaters,  will set you back around $10 to $12. Perfect for sharing, especially if you’re willing to endure a little “Who’s holding the bucket?” game.

Soda (Large): What’s popcorn without a drink to wash it down? A large soda usually costs between $6 and $8. Yes, it’s huge, but one soda for two people? That’s just more romantic, right?

Candy: You’ve got a couple of dollars left – let’s go for candy! Most theaters offer those classic boxes of candy for around $3 to $5. With some savvy choices, you might be able to grab a pack of M&M’s or some Twizzlers for that sugar rush.

So, for $20 in the USA, you’re looking at a large popcorn to share, a large soda (with two straws, of course), and maybe a small box of candy. It’s a solid lineup if you don’t mind splitting the goods!

Canada: Oh, Canada! Movie Night in the Great White North

Next, we head north to Canada, where you can find movie prices that feel similar to those in the USA, but with a few key differences. Let’s see how $20 stretches here.

Popcorn (Large): A large popcorn in Canada usually goes for about $9 to $11. It’s still a hefty bucket, perfect for sharing as you settle into the latest Hollywood blockbuster or some classic Canadian indie films, most likely at the largest chain in the country, Cineplex.

Soda (Large): A large soda costs around $5 to $7. Again, one cup, two straws—you’re keeping the romance alive, even when sharing a soda.

Candy: If you have a few loonies left over, candy in Canadian theaters usually runs between $3 to $6. You might be able to snag some Maltesers or Sour Patch Kids, but don’t expect a huge candy haul.

For $20, Canadian moviegoers can get a large popcorn, a large soda, and possibly a smaller candy option. Like the USA, sharing is the name of the game.