Tennessee is famous for its rich musical tradition, gorgeous scenery, and warm Southern friendliness. But, behind the warm grins and country music, there are peculiarities and customs that locals fully embrace, leaving outsiders perplexed.
From fervent devotion to their favorite hot chicken joints to tailgating rituals that rival national holidays, Tennesseans have distinct behaviors that may appear weird to others.
These rituals characterize life in the Volunteer State, whether it’s how people negotiate unpredictable weather or their strong love of college football. If you’ve ever wondered what drives Tennesseans, buckle up! Here are seven things they do that may astound, amuse, or confound you.
1. Refer to soft drinks as “Coke”
In Tennessee, the phrase “Coke” refers to any carbonated soft drink, regardless of brand or taste. When a local asks, “What kind of Coke do you want?” they are not restricting your options to cola; you may respond with “Sprite” or “Dr Pepper.” This language peculiarity may mislead visitors accustomed to calling it “soda” or “pop.”
2. Deep appreciation for hot chicken
Nashville hot chicken is more than just spicy fried chicken; it’s a culinary staple. Tennesseeans enjoy the mouth-burning, cayenne-seasoned dish served on white toast with pickles. While the spice level may stun visitors, locals frequently seek up the spicier variants available.
3. Use “Bless Your Heart” in a variety of contexts
“Bless your heart” is an adaptable expression in Tennessee. It can convey real sorrow or, in other situations, act as a polite approach to acknowledge someone’s bad circumstance. The exact meaning is frequently dependent on the context and tone, leaving outsiders unsure whether they have been complimented or quietly chastised.
4. Celebrate Country Music as a Religion
Tennessee, the birthplace of country music, takes its musical heritage seriously. From the Grand Ole Opry to the Country Music Hall of Fame, locals have a strong affinity for the genre. They may be perplexed if you don’t recognize historical musicians or are unfamiliar with the most recent country radio songs. Experience all four seasons—sometimes within a week.
5. Participate in Moonshine Culture
Moonshining is a long-standing Tennessee ritual. While it’s now legal and regulated, many locals still take pride in producing and enjoying homemade spirits. Visiting a distillery to sip true Tennessee moonshine is a popular hobby.
6. Navigate “Holler” and “Pike”
Tennesseans might give directions using terms like “holler” (a small valley) or “pike” (a main road), which can be confusing to outsiders. Understanding this local terminology is key to finding your way around rural areas.
7. Show up early for college football tailgating
College football is a huge deal, especially games involving the University of Tennessee Volunteers. Fans gather hours—or even days—before kickoff to tailgate, grill, and celebrate. Non-fans can find the amount of excitement and commitment excessive.
Final Words
Life in Tennessee is a mix of charm, tradition, and peculiarities that make it genuinely distinct. Tennesseans live life with excitement and pride, from their love of hot chicken to their passion for college football. While these practices may perplex visitors, they define the Volunteer State’s robust culture.