Eight Odd and Strange Things Nobody Tells You About Virginia Life

Virginia is rich in history, culture, and a few quirks that set it apart from other states. Here are eight odd and strange things about Virginia life that often go unmentioned:

1. Peanuts in Coca-Cola

Generations of Virginians (and other Southerners) have enjoyed dropping roasted peanuts into their Coca-Cola bottles—a salty-sweet snack and drink combo that baffles outsiders.

2. Pineapples in Christmas Wreaths

In Williamsburg and other historic areas, pineapples are a symbol of hospitality and are often featured in Christmas wreaths, a tradition dating back to colonial times.

3. Streaking the Lawn at UVA

University of Virginia students have a tradition of running naked across the Lawn (the university’s historic center) at least once before graduation—a rite of passage for many.

4. Kissing on Bridges

Some Virginia towns have romantic legends about kissing on a certain bridge for luck in love, a tradition that persists in places like Staunton and Lexington.

5. Snowball Fights: Cadets vs. Civilians

In certain college towns, winter brings epic snowball battles between military cadets (like those at VMI) and local civilians, complete with snow forts and friendly rivalry.

6. Smithfield Ham is a State Treasure

Smithfield ham, a type of country ham, is protected by Virginia law and can only be produced in Smithfield—making it a culinary icon with legal status.

7. UFO Sightings in Wytheville

Wytheville has become famous for UFO sightings, with local lore and even a sheriff’s account of a close encounter in 1987.

8. Colonial Holiday Traditions Live On

Some colonial-era holidays, like “a-maying” on May Day or the Lord of Misrule at Christmas, still influence local celebrations and customs in historic towns.

These quirky traditions and unexpected facts are just a few of the things that make Virginia life uniquely charming and sometimes downright strange.

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