For many people who’ve left Virginia, it’s not always the grand mountains or famous historical landmarks that spark homesickness—it’s the small, everyday details that unexpectedly pull at the heartstrings.
1. Virginia Ham
The distinctive, salt-cured flavor of Virginia ham is something that’s hard to replicate anywhere else. Whether it’s served at a family meal or as part of a holiday spread, just the thought of Virginia ham can make you long for a taste of home, with its savory richness and Southern charm.
2. Peanuts (Especially from the Tidewater Region)
Virginia peanuts, particularly those from the Tidewater region, are known for their size and flavor. A handful of these peanuts can instantly transport you back to roadside stands or family gatherings. They’re a small snack with a big connection to the state, and it’s something you’ll find yourself craving when you’re far away.
3. Apple Butter
Slathered on a biscuit or a warm slice of toast, Virginia’s apple butter is a sweet, spiced comfort food that’s hard to find outside the region. It brings back memories of lazy mornings, homemade breakfasts, and the cozy feel of a Virginia kitchen, making it one of those little comforts you miss deeply when you’re not home.
4. Old Bay Seasoning
While Old Bay is technically from Maryland, it has found a permanent place in many Virginia kitchens, especially for seafood boils and crab feasts along the Chesapeake Bay. The signature seasoning is synonymous with coastal life in Virginia and, for many, evokes memories of summer gatherings, fresh seafood, and the salty air of the bay.
5. Local Cider and Craft Beer
Virginia’s growing craft beverage scene, particularly in cities like Richmond and Charlottesville, holds a special place in the hearts of many former residents. Local ciders and beers, such as those from Bold Rock or Hardywood, carry memories of friendly gatherings, backyard barbecues, and the sense of community in Virginia’s craft culture. The taste of these beverages can quickly make you nostalgic for Virginia’s local flavor.
6. Wineries and Vineyard Views
Virginia’s rolling hills dotted with vineyards, especially near Charlottesville, offer some of the most picturesque landscapes in the state. Whether it’s a sunny afternoon spent sipping wine or simply enjoying the stunning views, the sight of those vineyards in full bloom is something that sticks with you. The unique atmosphere of Virginia’s wineries is hard to replicate elsewhere, and it’s a place you’ll find yourself longing for.
7. Distinctive Town Names
From Tappahannock to Chincoteague, Virginia is full of town names that sound uniquely Virginian and often carry personal memories and stories. These names—whether from local legends or quirky traditions—hold a special place in the hearts of residents, and they spark inside jokes and nostalgic conversations that you’ll miss when you’re no longer there.
8. The Sound of Cicadas and Tree Frogs at Dusk
For many Virginians, the warm summer evenings are filled with the comforting buzz of cicadas and the croaking of tree frogs. The sound of this summer chorus is like a soundtrack to memories of Virginia, and hearing it again—whether in person or in your mind—can instantly transport you back to the peaceful rhythm of a Virginia night. It’s a sound you might not find elsewhere, making it all the more cherished.
9. The Smell of Fresh-Cut Hay and Wild Honeysuckle
For rural and suburban Virginians, the smell of freshly cut hay or the sweet fragrance of wild honeysuckle is tied to childhood summers and evening walks. These scents evoke memories of simpler times, wide open spaces, and the beauty of Virginia’s countryside. The absence of these familiar smells can make you long for home when you’re away.
10. The Use of “Y’all” and Local Expressions
The comforting sound of regional dialects is something that makes Virginia feel like home, whether it’s hearing someone say “y’all,” “fixin’ to,” or “bless your heart.” These expressions, while common in the South, take on a deeper meaning when you’re away from Virginia.
The absence of these familiar words and phrases can make you feel disconnected from the warmth and hospitality that is so quintessentially Virginian.
Sources:
1. https://www.bbc.com/worklife/article/20140428-combat-expat-homesickness
2. https://thewalrus.ca/livingrooms-you-cant-run-away-from-homesickness/