Pop-Tarts Edible Mascot to Make 'Fan Sacrifice' at 2026 NFL Draft

The internet-famous Pop-Tarts mascot will conclude its journey at the upcoming draft in Pittsburgh.

Apr. 16, 2026 at 11:27pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a glossy, brightly-colored Pop-Tarts pastry, capturing the sugary, textured surface in a glamorous, high-fashion style.The edible Pop-Tarts mascot's journey culminates in a unique 'fan sacrifice' event at the 2026 NFL Draft, inviting spectators to indulge in the brand's signature Protein Slammin' Strawberry flavor.Today in Pittsburgh

The edible Pop-Tarts mascot that captivated fans last year is set to make an appearance at the 2026 NFL Draft in Pittsburgh. As part of a new 'Edible Mascot Sacrifice' tradition, the mascot will invite fans to participate in tasting the Protein Slammin' Strawberry flavor on April 24th. For those unable to attend in person, the mascot will also be featured on Pop-Tarts' social media channels.

Why it matters

The Pop-Tarts mascot has become a cultural phenomenon in recent years, sparking widespread internet fascination. This 'fan sacrifice' event represents an effort by the brand to further capitalize on the mascot's popularity and engage fans in a unique, interactive way around the highly anticipated NFL Draft.

The details

The Pop-Tarts Protein Slammin' Strawberry mascot has been making appearances at various events over the past three seasons, including Super Bowl parties and marathons. Now, the mascot's journey will culminate at the 2026 NFL Draft in Pittsburgh, where fans will have the opportunity to taste the edible mascot as part of a new 'Edible Mascot Sacrifice' tradition. The event will take place on April 24th at Nova Place in Pittsburgh, and fans unable to attend in person can follow the mascot's activities on Pop-Tarts' social media channels.

  • The 2026 NFL Draft will take place from April 23 to April 25 in Pittsburgh.
  • The 'Edible Mascot Sacrifice' event will be held on Friday, April 24 at 3:00 p.m. ET in Pittsburgh.

The players

Leslie Serro

Vice president of marketing for Pop-Tarts, a part of Mars Snacking.

Pop-Tarts Protein Slammin' Strawberry mascot

The edible Pop-Tarts mascot that has become an internet sensation over the past three seasons.

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What they’re saying

“Over the past three seasons, the Edible Mascot sacrifice has become a cultural phenomenon our fans look forward to every year. Now, we're giving them the chance to take a bite of the action as the Pop-Tarts Protein Slammin' Strawberry mascot's journey — from Pop-Tarts Bowl to 'going pro' — comes to an end in Pittsburgh on April 24.”

— Leslie Serro, Vice president of marketing for Pop-Tarts

What’s next

Fans can celebrate the iconic Pop-Tarts Edible Mascot tradition in person on Friday, April 24 at Nova Place (100 S. Commons, Pittsburgh, PA 15212) at 3:00 p.m. ET. For those unable to attend, the mascot will also be featured on Pop-Tarts' social media channels.

The takeaway

The Pop-Tarts mascot's 'fan sacrifice' event at the 2026 NFL Draft represents the brand's efforts to further capitalize on the mascot's widespread popularity and engage fans in a unique, interactive way around a major sporting event.