Maryland—where blue crabs are king, the Chesapeake Bay is your backyard, and sports rivalries are a way of life. Whether you’re from Baltimore, the Eastern Shore, or the rolling hills of Western Maryland, if you check off most of these signs, you’re definitely a true Marylander. Let’s see how many of these feel like home to you!
You’ve defended Old Bay seasoning as the greatest gift to mankind.
Old Bay isn’t just a spice—it’s an institution. Whether you’re sprinkling it on crabs, fries, or popcorn, you know Old Bay is the flavor of Maryland, and you’ve likely argued that nothing else compares.
You know that “crab cakes” and “crabs” are more than just food—they’re practically a religion.
Marylanders don’t just eat crab cakes; they worship them. Whether you’re getting them from a local seafood joint or making them at home, you know crab cakes are a sacred dish that can make or break a meal.
You’ve had a “Maryland moment” where you proudly say, “You can’t get this anywhere else.”
Whether it’s the food, the landscape, or the way people treat each other, you’ve experienced that moment of pure pride for your state. You know that Maryland is a special place, and you’re happy to share it with the world.
You’ve spent at least one summer day at the beach—and you call it “The Shore,” not “Ocean City.”
Ocean City is the go-to spot for Maryland beach lovers, but when you talk about it, it’s “The Shore.” You’ve spent hours on the beach, enjoying the sun, the boardwalk fries, and the sounds of the waves.
You’ve had to explain to someone that “The Beltway” isn’t just a road—it’s a lifestyle.
The Beltway around D.C. is more than just a highway—it’s a daily test of patience. Whether it’s traffic or the drama of navigating the many exits, you’ve got your daily commute down to a science—and you know that getting on or off the Beltway is an art.
You’ve stood in a crab shack with a mallet in hand, trying to break open a steamed crab.
If you’re from Maryland, you know the crab shack experience is a rite of passage. You’ve wrestled with a hard shell, cracked open legs, and enjoyed the sweet crab meat, all while wearing an apron and possibly getting a little bit messy.
You’ve proudly said, “I’m from Maryland,” and corrected someone who called it “a part of D.C.”
You know that Maryland is its own state—with its own identity, culture, and pride. Whether it’s pointing out that Maryland is its own place or discussing the intricacies of the state flag, you take your Maryland pride seriously.
You’ve had a back-and-forth debate over the best place for crab cakes—and you definitely know your favorite spot.
Marylanders are fiercely loyal to their favorite crab cake joints. Whether it’s a restaurant in Baltimore or a family-run seafood shack, you’ve probably debated where to get the best crab cakes with the same fervor you would a national election.
You’ve spent time in Annapolis, and you secretly enjoy its quiet charm.
Annapolis isn’t just the state capital—it’s a beautiful harbor town with a historic flair. Whether you’re strolling down Main Street, admiring the Chesapeake Bay, or eating seafood by the water, you know Annapolis is a treasure of Maryland.
You know how to spot a good Maryland-style pit beef sandwich—and you know it’s not just for summer cookouts.
Pit beef is a Maryland classic, and you’ve probably spent some time perfecting your pit beef game. Whether it’s from a local spot or you’ve made it yourself, you know that the secret is in the seasoning and the slow-cooked beef.
You’ve been to a Maryland Renaissance Festival—and you’ve embraced your inner pirate or royalty.
The Maryland Renaissance Festival is the event for anyone who loves history, costumes, and good food. You’ve probably gotten into the spirit by dressing up as a pirate, noble, or court jester, all while munching on turkey legs and enjoying live entertainment.
You know that “Hon” isn’t just a term of endearment—it’s a cultural trademark.
Baltimore’s charm can’t be denied, and part of that charm is the iconic “Hon.” Whether it’s a friendly greeting or just part of the local vernacular, you’ve probably heard (or used) it enough times to understand it’s part of Maryland’s identity.
If you’ve been nodding along to most of these, you’re definitely a true Marylander! Whether it’s the crabs, the culture, or the unmistakable pride in your state, Maryland has a unique spirit that you can’t help but love. So, next time someone asks where you’re from, throw up your hand (in the shape of a mitten, of course) and say, “Maryland”—and maybe pass them a crab cake while you’re at it!
