Kentucky—where bourbon flows like water, the horses are faster than you can blink, and the mountains are home to some of the most charming folks you’ll ever meet. Whether you’re from the Derby capital of the world, Louisville, the rolling hills of Lexington, or a small town tucked away in Appalachia, if you check off most of these signs, you’re definitely a true Kentuckian. Let’s see how many of these ring true for you!
You’ve defended bourbon like it’s a family heirloom.
Kentucky is bourbon country, and you know it’s the finest whiskey on the planet. You’ve probably had long conversations (or debates) with outsiders about the difference between bourbon and whiskey, and you’ve proudly shared your favorite distillery with anyone willing to listen.
You’ve watched the Kentucky Derby, and you’ve probably worn a hat that was “a little too much.”
The Kentucky Derby isn’t just a race—it’s an event. Whether you’ve been there in person or watched it on TV, you’ve donned a fancy hat (or at least seen someone wear one) and you’ve cheered for your favorite horse like it was your own.
You’ve argued about which is better: Ale-8-One or Cheerwine.
Kentucky is home to Ale-8-One, and you’ve probably been in at least one debate about the best soft drink. You’re a loyal fan of Ale-8, but you’ve definitely had someone try to convince you that Cheerwine is the better option—this never ends well.
You know that “the bluegrass state” isn’t just a name—it’s part of the culture.
Bluegrass music is in your bones, and you know it’s more than just a genre. Whether you’ve listened to it at a family gathering, a concert, or in a field, you’ve experienced the joy of bluegrass, and you’re proud of Kentucky’s rich musical tradition.
You’ve made fried chicken so good, it should be in a museum.
Kentucky fried chicken isn’t just a dish—it’s a state treasure. Whether you’re deep-frying it at home or ordering from a local joint, you’ve mastered the art of fried chicken, and you know that it’s best served with mashed potatoes and gravy.
You’ve spent a day at the Kentucky Horse Park, and you know horses are more than just animals—they’re family.
Kentucky is known as the Horse Capital of the World, and you’ve probably spent time at the Kentucky Horse Park, learning about the majestic animals that are the pride of the state. Whether you’ve ridden one or just admired them from a distance, horses are a big part of your Kentucky life.
You know that “the holler” is a place of pride.
Whether you’re from the mountains or the flatlands, “the holler” is home. You’ve heard the term more times than you can count, and you know that “the holler” is more than just geography—it’s a lifestyle, a community, and a badge of honor.
You’ve argued with someone about whether Louisville or Lexington is the true heart of Kentucky.
Louisville and Lexington both lay claim to being Kentucky’s best, and you’ve probably gotten into a friendly (or not-so-friendly) argument about which city is better. Whether it’s the bourbon, the horses, or the college basketball, you’ve got a strong opinion about which city reigns supreme.
You’ve eaten enough barbecue to justify a year-round appetite for it.
Barbecue is an art form in Kentucky, and you’ve spent hours enjoying pulled pork, ribs, and all the sides that come with it. Whether it’s from a family recipe or a local spot, you know that Kentucky BBQ is about more than just cooking meat—it’s about tradition.
You’ve had a “Kentucky moment” when you realized just how lucky you are to live here.
You’ve stood at the edge of a bluegrass field or on the banks of the Ohio River, looked around, and thought, “I’m lucky to be from here.” There’s something special about Kentucky’s landscapes, history, and people, and you’ve had that moment when you truly appreciate it all.
You’ve spent at least one summer at a Kentucky lake—and you know that no place is better for relaxation.
Whether it’s Lake Cumberland, Kentucky Lake, or any of the countless other bodies of water, you’ve spent a summer day relaxing on the water, fishing, boating, or just enjoying the view. It’s the perfect way to unwind and feel connected to nature.
You’ve explained that “rolling hills” don’t mean flat—you know the beauty of the land comes from its subtle peaks and valleys.
Kentucky’s landscape is full of rolling hills, and you know it’s a big part of what makes the state so beautiful. Whether you’re hiking through them or driving along a scenic route, you’ve come to love the way the land gently rises and falls, creating a picturesque scene wherever you go.
If you checked off most of these signs, you’re a true Kentuckian. Whether it’s bourbon, fried chicken, or bluegrass, Kentucky is a state that leaves a lasting impression. So, the next time someone asks where you’re from, proudly say, “Kentucky”—and maybe offer them a taste of that world-famous fried chicken while you’re at it!
