You Know You’re From Maryland If You Say These 15 Things

Maryland, where the Old Bay flows as freely as the Chesapeake Bay and crabs are a way of life. From the bustling streets of Baltimore to the serene shores of the Eastern Shore, the Free State is full of unique traditions, rich history, and a little bit of everything in between. If you’re a true Marylander, these sayings are probably part of your daily vocabulary. Let’s see how Maryland you really are!

“Pass the Old Bay.”

Old Bay isn’t just a seasoning—it’s practically a religion in Maryland. You put it on everything from crabs to fries to popcorn, and you know that no meal is complete without it.

“O’s and Ravens forever!”

You’re a die-hard Baltimore Orioles or Ravens fan, or maybe both. Whether it’s baseball at Camden Yards or football at M&T Bank Stadium, you bleed orange, black, and purple.

“I’ll have a Natty Boh.”

National Bohemian, or Natty Boh, is the unofficial beer of Maryland. You’ve probably enjoyed more than a few cold ones, and Mr. Boh’s winking face is a familiar sight.

“Crab feast at my place!”

You know that summer means one thing: crab season. You’ve hosted or attended countless crab feasts, complete with newspaper-covered tables, mallets, and plenty of butter and Old Bay. Cracking crabs is an art form, and you’ve mastered it.

“It’s ‘Baltimore,’ not ‘Bawlmer.’”

You know the correct pronunciation of Maryland’s largest city, and you’ve perfected the Baltimore accent, which may or may not include some “hon” and “warsh” in your vocabulary.

“We’ve got the best blue crabs.”

You know that Maryland blue crabs are the best in the world, and you’re always ready to defend their superiority to anyone who dares suggest otherwise. Soft-shell, hard-shell, or in a crab cake—crabs are your pride and joy.

“I’m headed ‘downy ocean, hon.’”

You know that “downy ocean” refers to a trip to Ocean City, Maryland’s beloved beach destination. Whether it’s riding the boardwalk rides or grabbing some Thrasher’s fries, a trip to OC is a must every summer.

“There’s no such thing as too much crab dip.”

Crab dip is a staple at any Maryland gathering. Whether it’s served hot, cold, or stuffed into a pretzel, you know that this creamy, cheesy delight is impossible to resist.

“We’ve got the best flag.”

You’re proud of the Maryland state flag, with its bold red, yellow, black, and white design. It’s on everything from bumper stickers to clothing, and you know it’s the best-looking flag in the country.

“Berger cookies are the best dessert.”

You know that Berger cookies—those thick, cake-like cookies topped with a mountain of chocolate fudge—are a Maryland treasure. You’ve probably eaten more than a few in one sitting, and they never disappoint.

“The Bay Bridge traffic is a nightmare.”

You’ve been stuck in traffic on the Chesapeake Bay Bridge at least once, and you know that it’s just part of life in Maryland. You’ve learned to time your trips to avoid the worst of it, but sometimes there’s just no escaping it.

“I’m going to the Preakness.”

The Preakness Stakes at Pimlico Race Course is a highlight of the year. Whether you’re sipping a Black-Eyed Susan or just enjoying the party atmosphere, you know the Preakness is as much about tradition as it is about the horses.

“It’s a snowball, not a snow cone.”

You know the difference between a snowball and a snow cone, and you’ll take a Baltimore-style snowball every time. With flavors like egg custard and skylite, and a marshmallow topping, it’s the perfect summer treat.

“We’re the birthplace of the Star-Spangled Banner.”

You take pride in the fact that Maryland is where the national anthem was born. Whether it’s visiting Fort McHenry or singing it at the start of a game, you know it’s a big part of Maryland’s history.

“Steamed crabs and Natty Bohs—life’s good.”

At the end of the day, you know there’s nothing better than a pile of steamed crabs, a cold Natty Boh, and good company. That’s what being from Maryland is all about.

If these phrases are part of your everyday life, congratulations—you’re a true Marylander! From enjoying a crab feast to cheering on the Ravens, you know what makes the Free State so special. So, crack open a Natty Boh, sprinkle some Old Bay, and embrace everything that makes Maryland, well, Maryland—you’re living the Maryland dream!