It’s no surprise that cultures worldwide have their own unique customs and traditions, but some of America’s most beloved habits can seem downright strange to outsiders.
Many American traditions may seem odd or even bizarre to people from other countries. Here are twenty of the strangest American traditions that confuse the rest of the world.
Reluctance To Use Metrics
Many countries in the world are used to having metrics for almost everything. However, America has shown a reluctance to use metrics.
This unusual tradition can be confusing for those who come from different parts of the world where using metrics is commonplace.
Groundhog Day
Groundhog Day is a popular American tradition that occurs every February 2nd. According to tradition, if a groundhog emerges from its burrow and sees its shadow, there will be six more weeks of winter.
If it does not see its shadow, spring will arrive early. It is an odd custom, and many people worldwide don’t understand why this event is celebrated in America. Nevertheless, millions of people come together each year to celebrate Groundhog Day and hope for an early spring!
Black Friday Shopping
This shopping event takes place on the day after Thanksgiving, and it is one of the busiest and craziest days for shoppers in America. People line up outside stores at midnight to get their hands on exclusive deals and discounts, and many stores open their doors as early as 4 a.m.
The intensity of this shopping event has created a frenzy in recent years, with tons of people searching for better deals to ensure they are not missing out.
Presidential Turkey Pardons
The Presidential turkey pardon is an American tradition that often confuses the rest of the world. Each year, the President of the United States pardons a turkey during Thanksgiving. The pardoned birds are usually sent to a petting zoo or to live out their days on a historic farm.
The tradition dates back to 1863, when Abraham Lincoln first granted amnesty to two birds, and has been celebrated ever since as a humorous gesture toward Thanksgiving.
Trick-or-Treating
Trick-or-Treating is one of the most popular American traditions that confuses the world. This practice involves children going door to door asking for treats such as candy or money.
On Halloween night, kids dress up in costumes and roam their neighborhoods with empty bags and buckets while adults give out treats. Trick-or-treating has become a beloved tradition here in America, but it can confuse those unfamiliar with this custom.
Holding “Trials of the Century”
This tradition has been around for decades and involves holding high-profile court cases with high public interest. These trials often involve celebrities or other public figures and sometimes have outcomes that can create shockwaves throughout society.
The media coverage for these trials can be intense, creating further confusion and fascination among those outside the US who do not understand why such a practice has become so popular within America.
Tipping
Tipping is an American tradition that often confuses the rest of the world. Tipping is not expected in many countries; in some, it is even prohibited. In America, however, tipping is seen as a way to show appreciation for good service.
It’s customary to tip 15-20% of the total bill at restaurants and bars and 10-15% for services such as taxi rides or haircuts. Many Americans also tip hotel staff, bellhops, or concierges when using their services.
Tailgating
Tailgating is a popular tradition in the U.S., where people gather to support their favorite teams by having a meal or drink before, during, and after games.
People usually bring lots of food and drinks to these events, normally at stadiums or other large outdoor spaces. Tailgating is a unique way for Americans to show their enthusiasm for sports and bond with friends and family.
Nenana Ice Classic
The Nenana Ice Classic is an odd American tradition that confuses the rest of the world. This annual event, held in Alaska since 1917, involves guessing when the ice on the Tanana River will break up.
Participants purchase tickets and select a date and time for when they think the ice will break up. If their guess is correct, then they win a large jackpot prize! The Nenana Ice Classic has become a beloved Alaskan tradition, bringing excitement yearly.
Cherry Pit Spitting
Cherry pit spitting is an odd tradition that has been around in the United States for years. It involves spitting a cherry pit as far as possible and is typically done in competitions, sometimes with prizes awarded to the winner.
Participants must stand behind a line marked on the ground and aim for accuracy rather than distance. The technique, which requires practice and skill, involves positioning the cherry pit on your tongue and then forcefully expelling it from your mouth. It is a strange yet entertaining American tradition that has confounded people from other countries!
Ostrich Racing
Ostrich racing is an American tradition that has puzzled the rest of the world for ages. Ostrich racing, also known as “The Great American Ostrich Race,” originated in Arizona and had become popular throughout the US by the 1990s.
It involves two people riding on an ostrich and running a certain distance without falling off. This highly entertaining sport has baffled people from all over the globe due to its unique nature.
Roadkill Cook-off
This event, which usually takes place in West Virginia, is a culinary competition where participants use animals that have been hit by vehicles as ingredients for their dishes!
Despite its morbid theme, it is still considered an exciting and unique way to celebrate American culture.
The National Hollerin’ Contest
The National Hollerin’ Contest, held annually in Spivey’s Corner, North Carolina, is a uniquely American tradition that confounds the rest of the world. Participants compete for prizes by hollering as long and loud as they can. Farmers and rural communities have used this ancient communication form for centuries, which is still celebrated today.
The event features multiple categories such as wood Hollerin’, mountain Hollerin’, and classic calls like coo-ee. It also includes plenty of traditional music and dancing. This unique competition is a must-see if you ever find yourself in North Carolina.
Pumpkin Chucking
Pumpkin throwing is one of the most bizarre and unique American traditions that confuses the rest of the world. It involves launching a pumpkin from a trebuchet, catapult, or slingshot with the aim of hitting targets or setting distance records.
The tradition originated in Delaware in 1986 and has since become an annual event in many parts of the United States. Participants often compete for prizes and bragging rights as they attempt to launch their pumpkins farther than anyone else.
Drinking Coffee On the Go
One odd American tradition that confuses the rest of the world is drinking coffee on the go. Americans are known for their love of coffee, and this culture has extended to having it available everywhere they go.
This includes walking down the street or even in a car with a cup of coffee in hand, which can be seen as a bit strange by people from other countries who don’t have this habit. In fact, many cultures worldwide prefer to sit down and enjoy their coffee instead of taking it with them.
Personalized Restaurant Orders
Restaurants worldwide have their own unique traditions and customs when it comes to ordering food. In the United States, some odd American traditions confuse the rest of the world when it comes to ordering meals.
For example, many Americans like to personalize their orders, which can include extra ingredients or modifications.
Opening Gifts in Front of the Giver
One of the most peculiar American traditions that confuse the rest of the world is opening gifts in front of the giver. While it is common to open presents right away in America, other countries prefer to wait until everyone has left before opening their gifts.
This tradition can be seen as rude by people from other cultures because it implies that the gift receiver may not be happy with what they have received and could potentially make the giver feel embarrassed or uncomfortable.
Partying With Red Solo Cups
The red Solo cup is a staple for any party, and many Americans believe that there’s no better way to celebrate than by filling up a red Solo cup with your favorite drink. This beloved tradition has been popularized in various movies and songs, making it an iconic part of American culture that confuses the rest of the world.
From college students to young professionals, many people all around the United States are familiar with the classic red Solo Cup. Whether you’re at a backyard barbecue or an outdoor concert, you’ll likely see plenty of red Solo cups being passed around.
Starting Conversations With Strangers
Americans always have a warm heart for speaking to everyone in a friendly manner. While people from other countries may find this trait weird and unsafe, Americans don’t seem to mind talking to strangers.
The Size of American Meals
American meals are known for their size. Not only do they come in large portions, but people often use much bigger plates than those used in other parts of the world.
This results in Americans eating more food than necessary and consuming more calories than recommended by health professionals. Furthermore, many restaurants offer all-you-can-eat buffets with various dishes that can be overwhelming to non-Americans.
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