Arkansas—where the Ozarks meet the Delta, the fried chicken is always crispy, and the people are as friendly as can be. Whether you’re from Little Rock, Hot Springs, or a small town you have to explain to outsiders, if you check off most of these signs, you’re a true Arkansan. Let’s see how many of these apply to you!
You’ve defended fried catfish like it’s the most important dish in the world.
Fried catfish is a staple in Arkansas, and you’ve likely eaten your fair share. Whether it’s served with hushpuppies, coleslaw, or fries, you know there’s no better way to eat fish. And you’ve probably had more than one heated debate about whether it should be seasoned with “just the right amount” of spice.
You’ve spent a day on a lake, and you’ve probably caught your dinner.
Arkansas is known for its beautiful lakes—whether it’s Bull Shoals, Lake Ouachita, or Beaver Lake, you’ve spent countless hours fishing, boating, or just enjoying the water. You’ve probably caught a fish (or two) and thought about how much better it’ll taste on your plate that evening.
You’ve tried to explain to someone that Arkansas isn’t just a flat state—there are mountains here.
You’ve had to clarify more than once that Arkansas is far more than flat plains. Whether you’re talking about the Ozarks, the Ouachita Mountains, or the scenic drives through the hills, you’ve proudly explained that Arkansas has some of the most beautiful (and hilly) terrain around.
You’ve gone to the Arkansas State Fair—and you’ve eaten more than your fair share of deep-fried treats.
The Arkansas State Fair isn’t just about rides and livestock—it’s about the food. Whether it’s fried Oreos, turkey legs, or the infamous funnel cakes, you’ve spent a good portion of your day indulging in the best fair food around.
You’ve explained that “rock and roll” in Arkansas means a bit of everything—especially music.
Whether you’re a fan of the Delta blues, country, or rock ‘n roll, Arkansas has a musical legacy that’s unmatched. You’ve spent time explaining that Arkansas is home to legendary musicians, from Johnny Cash to Glen Campbell, and that you don’t need to leave the state to find great live music.
You’ve tried to explain to an out-of-stater that “Arkansas” is pronounced the way it’s spelled, but they still can’t get it right.
You’ve corrected more than one person who thought “Arkansas” was pronounced like “Kansas.” Despite how many times you’ve tried, some folks just can’t seem to figure it out, and you’ve learned to smile politely when they say it wrong.
You’ve braved the heat and humidity of Arkansas summers—and you’ve learned to love them.
Summers in Arkansas can be brutal, but you’ve learned to embrace the heat. Whether you’re cooling off in a pool, enjoying an iced tea, or just taking it easy under the shade, you know that summer is when you really get to appreciate the slower pace of life in Arkansas.
You’ve spent time in Hot Springs—and you know it’s more than just the spa.
Hot Springs is one of Arkansas’s treasures, and you’ve likely enjoyed its natural beauty. Whether you’ve soaked in the healing waters, hiked in the nearby hills, or visited the historic bathhouses, you know there’s more to this town than just a nice soak.
You’ve eaten at a family-owned BBQ joint—and you know that’s the best BBQ you’ll ever taste.
BBQ is serious business in Arkansas. Whether you prefer pulled pork, ribs, or brisket, you’ve eaten at more than a few locally-owned BBQ joints, and you know the best ones come with a side of sweet tea and southern hospitality.
You’ve said, “It’s just Arkansas, what’s the big deal?”—but you know how great it really is.
When you’ve traveled out of state, you’ve had to explain just how wonderful your home state is. Whether it’s the natural beauty, the people, or the food, you know that Arkansas may be under the radar, but it’s full of gems that make it one of the best places to live.
You’ve spent a weekend at a state park—and you’ve fallen in love with the natural beauty of the land.
Arkansas is home to some of the most stunning state parks in the country, and you’ve likely spent weekends hiking, camping, or exploring the natural wonders. From Crystal Bridges to Hot Springs National Park, you know that Arkansas has plenty of outdoor beauty to explore.
You’ve tried to explain to someone that Arkansans don’t just eat rice, but we know how to cook it!
Rice isn’t just a side dish in Arkansas—it’s part of the state’s culinary history. Whether it’s in a jambalaya, as part of a crawfish boil, or just a side of rice and gravy, you know that Arkansas knows how to make the humble grain into something special.
If you checked off most of these signs, you’re definitely a true Arkansan. Whether it’s the food, the outdoor adventures, or the warmth of the people, Arkansas is a state that stays in your heart. So, next time someone asks where you’re from, throw on your best smile, say, “Arkansas”—and maybe even invite them for a plate of fried catfish while you’re at it!
