Heat oven to 250°F. Line two baking sheets with nonstick foil.
In a large mixing bowl, stir together the popcorn, pecans, apricots, and pretzels.
In a saucepan, combine brown sugar, butter, corn syrup, and salt (an adult's job). Cook over medium heat until it boils. Boil for 2 minutes. Remove from heat; stir in vanilla and baking soda.
Pour caramel over popcorn, stirring. Spread onto baking sheets. Bake for 45 minutes, stirring twice. Remove from oven and cool completely. Break into chunks and serve.