12 Things People from Arkansas Do That Seem Insane To Everyone Else

Nestled in the heart of the American South, Arkansas is a state brimming with charming idiosyncrasies and time-honored traditions. From unconventional culinary delights to quirky celebrations, the Natural State offers a way of life that’s delightfully distinct. Here are 12 things people from Arkansas do that might seem downright baffling to everyone else.

1. Call the Hogs with Gusto

At any given sports event, especially University of Arkansas games, you’ll hear locals passionately “Calling the Hogs” with a resounding cheer of “Woo Pig Sooie!” It’s a rallying cry that unites the entire state in Razorback pride.

2. Celebrate Cheese Dip Like It’s a National Treasure

Arkansans claim to have invented cheese dip, and they take it very seriously. Annual festivals and fierce competitions are held to honor this beloved melted concoction, making nacho cheese enthusiasts everywhere green with envy.

3. Dig for Diamonds in Their Free Time

Why buy diamonds when you can dig for them? At Crater of Diamonds State Park, locals and tourists alike sift through the soil in hopes of unearthing a precious gem. Finders, keepers!

4. Pronounce Arkansas as “Arkansaw” and Enforce It

Don’t you dare pronounce the final “s” in Arkansas. Locals are quick to correct anyone who doesn’t adhere to the French-inspired pronunciation, embracing their state’s unique name with pride.

5. Host the World’s Largest Watermelon Festival

In the town of Hope, celebrating giant watermelons is an annual tradition. With contests, parades, and endless watermelon-themed activities, it’s a seed-spitting good time that might seem over-the-top to outsiders.

6. Fry Up Some Catfish for Every Occasion

Fried catfish isn’t just food; it’s a way of life. Whether it’s a family gathering or a community event, you can bet there’s a golden, crispy catfish platter at the center of it.

7. Use “Buggy” Instead of Shopping Cart

At the grocery store, don’t be confused when someone asks you to grab a “buggy.” It’s just Arkansas lingo for a shopping cart, and it’s as normal as sweet tea on a hot day.

8. Go “Floating” on the Weekends

Instead of hitting the beach, Arkansans love to spend their weekends “floating” down rivers in canoes or kayaks. It’s a leisurely pastime that involves friends, laughter, and the gentle flow of the Arkansas waterways.

9. Attend Church Picnics Like They’re Social Events of the Year

Church picnics are a cornerstone of social life, featuring potluck dishes, games, and fellowship. It’s where communities come together, and missing one is practically unheard of.

10. Celebrate Toad Suck Daze

Yes, you read that right. The Toad Suck Daze festival in Conway is a family-friendly event with live music, food, and toad races. It’s a quirky tradition that leaves outsiders both amused and perplexed.

11. Drive to the Nearest Walmart Just for Fun

As the birthplace of Walmart, Arkansas has a special connection to the retail giant. Locals sometimes treat a trip to Walmart as a social outing, not just a shopping necessity.

12. Eat Possum Pie (That Thankfully Contains No Possum)

Possum pie is a deceptively named dessert featuring layers of chocolate pudding, whipped cream, and cream cheese. Despite its name, there’s no possum involved—just pure, sweet indulgence.

Arkansas might march to the beat of its own drum, but that’s what makes it wonderfully unique. These traditions and habits showcase a state rich in culture, community, and a touch of whimsy. So next time you find yourself in Arkansas, embrace the quirks—you might just find yourself “Calling the Hogs” and digging for diamonds before you know it!