Louisiana—a state of swamps, jazz, crawfish boils, and a culture unlike any other. Whether you’re from New Orleans, Baton Rouge, or a quiet bayou town, if you check off most of these signs, you’re definitely a true Louisianian. Let’s see how many of these sound familiar to you!
You’ve defended gumbo, jambalaya, and crawfish étouffée like they were your children.
You know that Louisiana’s food isn’t just something you eat—it’s a passion. Whether you’re in a hole-in-the-wall joint or at a family gathering, you’ve staunchly defended the superior qualities of gumbo (with or without okra) and have probably convinced someone out-of-state that Louisiana food is the best.
You’ve been to Mardi Gras—and you know it’s not just about beads.
Mardi Gras is more than just a party in New Orleans—it’s an experience, a celebration of culture, history, and, of course, fun. You’ve walked down Bourbon Street, caught beads, eaten king cake, and probably danced to jazz music in the streets, all while wearing your finest purple, green, and gold.
You’ve explained that “lagniappe” is more than just an extra—it’s part of the deal.
Lagniappe (pronounced “lan-yap”) is the extra little something you get with a meal, a service, or just life in Louisiana. You’ve had this extra treat more times than you can count, and you’ve explained the concept to someone who’s never heard of it—and you did it with a smile.
You know that “crawfish season” is a holiday, and you’ve probably eaten your weight in them.
Crawfish season in Louisiana is sacred. Whether you’re hosting a boil with family or attending one with friends, you know the drill: eat crawfish until you can’t eat anymore, then pass the beer and keep going. You’ve learned the art of peeling and eating them like a pro.
You’ve been on a swamp tour, and you weren’t that scared of the alligators.
Louisiana’s swamps are iconic, and you’ve probably taken a boat ride through them at some point. Whether you’re searching for gators or just soaking in the sights, you’ve felt a thrill and a sense of awe that only Louisiana swamps can provide.
You know that “the Saints” mean more than just football—they’re part of the culture.
Who dat? If you’re from Louisiana, you’ve yelled that at least once in your life. Whether you’re tailgating in New Orleans or watching a game at home, you know that supporting the Saints is part of the fabric of life here—and that a Super Bowl win is something you’ll never forget.
You’ve had a debate about which neighborhood has the best po’boys—and you’ve got a definitive answer.
Po’boys are a cornerstone of Louisiana cuisine, and you know the best ones come from your favorite spot. Whether it’s fried shrimp, roast beef, or crawfish, you’ve argued about who makes the best—and you’ll defend your choice to the end.
You’ve spent time at a bayou festival, and you’ve probably danced to zydeco music.
Louisiana festivals are more than just events—they’re full-on celebrations of culture, music, and food. Whether it’s a crawfish festival or a music festival, you’ve danced to zydeco music, eaten too much jambalaya, and probably had the best time of your life.
You’ve had to explain that New Orleans isn’t just the French Quarter.
New Orleans is so much more than the French Quarter, but that’s the part most outsiders know. You’ve taken people on a tour of the city’s history, culture, and food scene, proudly showing them that there’s so much more to NOLA than just Bourbon Street.
You’ve explained the difference between “Creole” and “Cajun”—and you’ve made sure everyone knows.
The difference between Creole and Cajun cuisine is important—and you’ve had to explain it more times than you care to admit. Whether it’s in food or culture, you know that Creole and Cajun are both significant to Louisiana, and you’ll happily educate anyone who asks.
You’ve eaten beignets in New Orleans—and you’ve told everyone they need to try them.
Beignets from Café du Monde are a rite of passage in New Orleans, and you’ve probably had one (or three) covered in powdered sugar. You’ve recommended them to anyone visiting the city, knowing they’ll leave wondering why they waited so long to try them.
You’ve said “Bless your heart” in a way that’s both sweet and a little sarcastic.
“Bless your heart” in Louisiana is an art form. Whether it’s a true expression of sympathy or a little bit of southern sass, you’ve used it to soften the edges of a comment or situation, and you’ve mastered the tone perfectly.
If you found yourself nodding along to most of these signs, you’re a true Louisianian through and through. Whether it’s the food, the music, the festivals, or the pride in your state, Louisiana is a place like no other. So, next time someone asks where you’re from, stand tall, say, “Louisiana,” and maybe even offer them a crawfish or some gumbo while you’re at it!
