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How to Turn On or Off Popcorn Bidding?

TL;DR

You can enable or disable popcorn bidding from your Event Settings. When turned on, popcorn bidding automatically extends the auction end time when bids come in near closing.

Author: Tom Kelly 2 min reads

What Is Popcorn Bidding?

Popcorn bidding is a feature that automatically extends the auction closing time whenever a bid is placed within the final countdown period. This prevents “bid sniping” and gives all interested bidders a fair chance to respond.

Key Benefits of Popcorn Bidding:

  • Creates excitement and urgency
  • Increases total bid amounts
  • Keeps competition fair
  • Extends the bidding window automatically

Step 1: Log In to Your Auction Dashboard

  1. Log in to your CharityAuctionsToday admin account.
  2. Select the auction event where you want to adjust popcorn bidding settings.
  3. Go to Event Settings or the Bidding Settings section.

Step 2: Find the Popcorn Bidding Option

  • Scroll to the Bidding Settings section.
  • Look for the “Popcorn Bidding” toggle or checkbox.

Step 3: Turn Popcorn Bidding On

  • Toggle the switch ON to enable popcorn bidding.
  • Set the extension time (for example, 2 or 5 minutes).
  • This determines how long the auction will extend each time a last-minute bid is placed.

Example: If popcorn bidding is set to 2 minutes and someone places a bid with 30 seconds left, the auction end time is extended by 2 minutes.

Step 4: Turn Popcorn Bidding Off

  • To disable the feature, toggle the switch OFF.
  • The auction will close exactly at the set end time, with no extensions.

This is useful if you prefer a hard stop for your event.

Step 5: Save Your Settings

  • After turning the feature on or off, click Save.
  • Changes take effect immediately for upcoming or ongoing auctions.

Step 6: Communicate to Bidders

Let bidders know whether popcorn bidding is active so they understand how the final minutes of the auction work.

  • If enabled: “Bids placed in the final 2 minutes will extend the auction.”
  • If disabled: “The auction will close exactly at the listed end time.”

Pro Tips for Using Popcorn Bidding

  • Use popcorn bidding to maximize final bid amounts on popular items.
  • Pair with blind bidding or Buy It Now strategically.
  • Set a short extension time (1–2 minutes) to keep the event moving.
  • Highlight popcorn bidding in item descriptions to encourage participation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is popcorn bidding?

Popcorn bidding automatically extends the auction closing time when a bid is placed in the final minutes, preventing last-second sniping.

How long does the extension last?

You can set the extension time in your settings. Common options are 2, 3, or 5 minutes.

Can I disable popcorn bidding after enabling it?

Yes. You can toggle popcorn bidding on or off at any time in your Event Settings.

Does popcorn bidding apply to all items?

Yes. When enabled, popcorn bidding applies to all auction items with timed endings.

Can I set different extension times for different items?

No. The extension time is applied globally to all items within the same auction event.

Will bidders be notified when the time is extended?

Yes. The countdown clock will update automatically, and active bidders can see the extended time in real time.

Can popcorn bidding work with blind bidding?

No. Popcorn bidding only works with visible bids. Blind bidding must be used separately on other items.

Does popcorn bidding guarantee higher bids?

While not guaranteed, extending time during high-interest bidding often leads to increased final bid amounts.

Can I use popcorn bidding on ticket sales or raffles?

No. Popcorn bidding only applies to auction items with closing times, not ticketing or raffles.

What happens if no one bids during the extension?

If no new bids are placed during the extension, the auction closes automatically after the extended time expires.

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Tom Kelly

Tom Kelly

Tom Kelly, TEDx speaker and CEO of CharityAuctions.com, helps nonprofits raise millions through auctions and AI. He hosts The Million Dollar Nonprofit podcast and inspires leaders to live their legacy, not just leave it.

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