Ohio: a place where quirks and charms blend seamlessly into the daily life of those who call it home. From unique culinary choices to peculiar ways of speaking, Ohioans have habits that might just leave outsiders scratching their heads. Here’s a dive into the Buckeye State’s most beloved oddities.
1. Calling Every Soda “Pop”
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Image Credit: Shutterstock / Viacheslav Lopatin
In Ohio, it’s not soda, cola, or soft drink — it’s “pop.” And that’s non-negotiable.
2. Obsessive Weather Talk
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Image Credit: Shutterstock / Sean Pavone
Ohioans are known to discuss the weather as if it’s a competitive sport, thanks to its unpredictability.
3. The Great Debate: Skyline vs. Gold Star
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Image Credit: Shutterstock / Cory Woodruff
Chili in Ohio isn’t just a meal; it’s a divisive topic. Are you Team Skyline or Team Gold Star?
4. Buckeye Everything
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Image Credit: Shutterstock / cvm
From candy to clothing, if it can be shaped like a buckeye or named after one, Ohioans are on it.
5. Sweetcorn Celebrations
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Image Credit: Shutterstock / naramit
Come summer, it’s not just about eating sweet corn; it’s about festivals dedicated to it.
6. O-H! I-O!
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Image Credit: Shutterstock / DavideAngelini
The call and response that unites the state. It’s not just for game day; it’s for any day.
7. Devotion to High School Football
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Image Credit: Shutterstock / Jacob Lund
In Ohio, Friday nights are for football. High school games are practically holidays.
8. Saying “The” Before Highway Numbers
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Image Credit: Shutterstock / Olena Yakobchuk
It’s not just I-75, it’s “The 75,” making every interstate sound infinitely more important.
9. The Three-Way Meal
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Image Credit: Shutterstock / Julia Mikhaylova
Not what it sounds like outside Ohio. It’s spaghetti, chili, and cheese — and it’s dinner.
10. “Please?”
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Image Credit: Shutterstock / Roman Samborskyi
If an Ohioan didn’t hear you, they’ll say “Please?” instead of “What?” or “Excuse me?”
11. The Love of Drive-Thrus
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Image Credit: Shutterstock / kckate16
Ohio loves a good drive-thru, not just for food, but for coffee, banking, and even convenience stores.
12. Rocking Out to the Black Keys or Twenty One Pilots
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Image Credit: Shutterstock / f11photo
Pride in Ohio’s music scene runs deep, especially for these hometown heroes.
13. Wearing Shorts in 50-Degree Weather
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Image Credit: Shutterstock / grandbrothers
After a long winter, 50 degrees is practically tropical for Ohioans.
14. Constant Construction Complaints
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Image Credit: Shutterstock / Kichigin
Construction season is the unofficial fifth season in Ohio, much to the dismay of its residents.
15. The Haunted Ohio Obsession
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Image Credit: Shutterstock / Natalie Shane
From ghost tours to haunted houses, Ohioans love a good scare.
16. Tomato Juice With Breakfast
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Image Credit: Shutterstock / THANAN KONGDOUNG
A strange but cherished tradition, especially in diners across the state.
17. Amish Country Excursions
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Image Credit: Shutterstock / hutch photography
A weekend trip to Amish Country is a treat for many Ohioans, with promises of cheese, furniture, and peaceful scenery.
18. Cedar Point Bragging Rights
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Image Credit: Shutterstock / David McGill 71
Home to some of the world’s best roller coasters, Ohioans love to brag about Cedar Point.
19. Peanut Butter and Chocolate Treats
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Image Credit: Shutterstock / Shyripa Alexandr
Inspired by the Buckeye candy, this combo is a state-wide obsession.
20. The Politeness Dance at Four-Way Stops
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Image Credit: Shutterstock / Dmytrenko Vlad
An endless loop of “You go.” “No, you go.” Ohioans are too polite at intersections.
21. Tailgating Is a Fine Art
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Image Credit: Shutterstock / Visuta
Whether it’s for a football game or a concert, Ohioans take tailgating to the next level.
Gain an Understanding
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Image Credit: Shutterstock / Weldon Schlonege
In Ohio, these habits aren’t just oddities; they’re a way of life. From celebrating the seemingly mundane to fierce loyalty to local traditions, it’s clear Ohioans cherish their unique way of living. So, if you find yourself in the Buckeye State, join in the fun and maybe, just maybe, you’ll leave understanding why Ohio is truly a state like no other.
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The post It’s an Ohio Thing: 21 Weird Habits Cherished by the Buckeye State first appeared on The Green Voyage.
Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / Patricia Elaine Thomas.
For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.
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