MJP –
From peaches to pecans, Georgia is a state brimming with Southern charm and quirky traditions. While the warm hospitality is undeniable, some local habits might leave outsiders scratching their heads.
If you’ve ever wondered what makes the Peach State so delightfully unique, here are 12 things people from Georgia do that might seem downright baffling to everyone else.
1. Use “Y’all” as a Singular and Plural Pronoun
In Georgia, “y’all” isn’t just for addressing groups—it’s often used when speaking to a single person as well. This versatile word embodies the friendly spirit of the South, even if it confuses grammar purists elsewhere.
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2. Put Peaches on Practically Everything
Peach cobbler, peach jam, peach salsa—you name it, they’ll peach it. Georgians are proud of their state fruit and find creative ways to incorporate peaches into all kinds of dishes.
3. Call All Soft Drinks “Coke”
In Georgia, “Coke” is a generic term for any carbonated beverage. When a server asks, “What kind of Coke would you like?” they might actually be offering you a Sprite or Dr Pepper.
4. Obsess Over College Football
College football isn’t just a sport; it’s a way of life. Saturdays are reserved for cheering on the Georgia Bulldogs, and game-day rituals are taken very seriously.
5. Snack on Boiled Peanuts
Boiled peanuts, often sold roadside, are a beloved snack in Georgia. The idea of soggy, salty peanuts might seem odd to outsiders, but locals can’t get enough of them.
6. Panic at the Sight of Snowflakes
Even a hint of snow can cause schools to close and store shelves to empty of bread and milk. Georgians aren’t accustomed to snow, and it doesn’t take much to create a winter “crisis.”
7. Drive Everywhere, Even Short Distances
In many parts of Georgia, public transportation is limited, and walking isn’t common. Locals will drive even if the destination is just a few blocks away.
8. Refer to Atlanta by Its Nicknames
“The ATL,” “Hotlanta,” “The Big Peach”—Georgians have numerous nicknames for Atlanta and use them interchangeably, sometimes leaving outsiders confused.
9. Deep-Fry Just About Anything
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From fried green tomatoes to deep-fried okra, Georgians believe that if you can eat it, you can fry it. It’s a culinary tradition that might astonish the health-conscious.
10. Celebrate New Year’s Eve with a Giant Peach Drop
While New York drops a ball on New Year’s Eve, Atlanta drops an 800-pound peach. It’s a festive event that embodies the state’s pride in its favorite fruit.
11. Have Strong Opinions About Barbecue Sauce
Whether it’s vinegar-based or tomato-based, Georgians are passionate about their barbecue. Debates over the best style of sauce can get surprisingly intense.
12. Hold On to Southern Formalities
Addressing people as “sir” and “ma’am” is common practice. Manners and polite greetings are deeply ingrained, and not using them can be seen as disrespectful.
Georgia’s blend of Southern charm and unique traditions makes it a state like no other. While some of these habits might seem unusual, they’re all part of the rich tapestry that defines life in the Peach State.
So next time you find yourself in Georgia, embrace the quirks—you might just find yourself saying “y’all” and enjoying boiled peanuts before you know it!
