Texas – the Lone Star State, where everything is bigger, bolder, and louder, and the pride we take in our land, our culture, and our traditions is unmatched. From the vast deserts to the piney woods, from the bustling streets of Austin to the wide-open ranches of West Texas, there’s a little bit of everything here. If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to live in Texas, here are 10 things only true Texans will understand.
Everything is bigger – especially the BBQ
In Texas, BBQ isn’t just food—it’s an event. From the slow-smoked brisket to the ribs that fall off the bone, we take our BBQ seriously. Whether you’re at a family cookout or a local BBQ joint, there’s no such thing as a small plate of BBQ in Texas. And don’t forget the sides—mac and cheese, cornbread, and baked beans are all essential parts of the meal.
Football is practically a religion
In Texas, high school football on a Friday night feels like a state holiday. It’s not just about the big college teams, either—our Friday night lights are where legends are made. Whether it’s Texas A&M, the University of Texas, or one of the many powerhouse high school teams, Texans live and breathe football. And yes, we’ll argue about which team is the best—passionately.
We take pride in our “Tex-Mex”
Tex-Mex food is a part of our identity. From sizzling fajitas to cheesy enchiladas to a perfectly made margarita, Tex-Mex is a culinary tradition we take seriously. Locals know that a good taco is a work of art, and if you’re going to order fajitas, you better be ready for the sizzle and the smell of onions and peppers.
The heat is real, but we love it
Texas summers are legendary, and yes, they can get hot. But that doesn’t stop us. Whether it’s 100°F or 110°F, you’ll find us outside enjoying a good barbecue, going for a swim, or just basking in the sun. We know how to stay cool (tip: never leave the house without sunscreen), and we wouldn’t have it any other way.
We’re fiercely proud of our state pride
Whether it’s the state flag, the motto, or just the word “Texas,” we wear our pride on our sleeves. It’s not just about how big everything is—it’s about the spirit of independence, the history, and the people who call Texas home. From bumper stickers to tattoos, Texans show their love for the Lone Star State wherever they go.
The Texas-sized road trips are legendary
Everything in Texas is far—and that’s just part of the charm. From driving the Texas Hill Country to road tripping to the Gulf Coast or Big Bend National Park, a Texas road trip is a rite of passage. You can expect long stretches of highway, endless blue skies, and some of the best food stops along the way (usually involving BBQ or tacos).
We know that “The Alamo” isn’t just a building—it’s a symbol
Texans hold The Alamo in San Antonio close to our hearts. It’s not just a historical site—it’s a symbol of bravery, sacrifice, and the fight for independence. The story of the Battle of the Alamo is woven into the fabric of Texas, and every Texan has some version of the story they’ll share with pride.
We’re all about the ranch life
Whether you live on a ranch or just admire the cowboy way of life, ranching is at the core of Texas culture. From the cattle drives to rodeos, horses to boots, Texans have a deep connection to the land. And if you haven’t been to a rodeo, you’re missing one of the most exciting experiences Texas has to offer—complete with bull riding, barrel racing, and a lot of cowboy hats.
We don’t just drink sweet tea—we perfect it
Sweet tea isn’t just a beverage in Texas—it’s a tradition. Brewed strong and sweetened just right, it’s the drink of choice at every meal, whether you’re having BBQ, Tex-Mex, or fried chicken. Texans know that there’s a fine art to making the perfect glass, and we’ll gladly offer you a refill.
We’ve got a love affair with live music
Texas is home to some of the best live music scenes in the world, especially in Austin, known as the “Live Music Capital of the World.” Whether it’s country, rock, blues, or Tejano, you can find live music in almost every bar, restaurant, or outdoor venue. If you’re from Texas, you know that no weekend is complete without a trip to see a local band, whether in a tiny honky-tonk or a big concert hall.
Living in Texas means embracing everything that makes the Lone Star State larger than life—whether it’s the BBQ, the football, the endless wide-open spaces, or the hospitality that makes you feel right at home. From the rolling plains to the bustling cities, Texas has a spirit that can’t be matched. So next time someone asks about Texas, just smile and say, “Come for the BBQ, stay for the pride, and never forget to bring your cowboy hat.”
