If you’ve spent a significant amount of time living in Virginia, you’ll recognize a set of experiences that truly mark you as a local—or perhaps as someone who’s been there “far too long.” Here are ten experiences that only seasoned Virginians will fully understand, each with a source or context for why it’s uniquely Virginian:
1. You’ve Had a Strong Opinion About the UVA vs. Virginia Tech Rivalry
Whether you attended either school or not, you know the annual Commonwealth Clash is a big deal and have likely picked a side (Go Hoos! or Let’s Go, Hokies!). This rivalry is deeply rooted in Virginia culture.
2. You’ve Eaten More Ham Biscuits Than You Can Count
Smithfield ham is a Virginia staple, and you’ve likely enjoyed countless ham biscuits at parties, church gatherings, or local diners.
3. You’ve Gotten Lost in a Roundabout—or Mastered It
Virginia is famous for its roundabouts, especially in cities like Richmond and Charlottesville. You either panic at the thought or navigate them like a pro.
4. You’ve Referred to Virginia as “The Commonwealth”
Only a true Virginian corrects anyone who calls it “the state of Virginia.” It’s the Commonwealth, thank you very much.
5. You’ve Explored Civil War Battlefields on a Weekend
With more Civil War battles fought here than any other state, you’ve probably visited at least one battlefield for a history lesson or a picnic.
6. You’ve Complained About Traffic on I-95 or I-66
If you’ve ever sat in bumper-to-bumper traffic on these notorious highways, you’re officially a Virginian.
7. You’ve Taken a Detour to Avoid a “Tractor Parade”
In rural Virginia, slow-moving farm equipment on country roads is a common sight—and a common source of delays.
8. You’ve Picked Apples or Pumpkins in the Fall
Fall in Virginia means apple picking and pumpkin patches, especially in the Shenandoah Valley and surrounding areas.
9. You’ve Hiked or Camped in the Blue Ridge Mountains
The Blue Ridge Parkway and Shenandoah National Park are local treasures, and you’ve likely spent weekends exploring their trails.
10. You’ve Had to Explain That Virginia Is “Not Really the South, Not Really the North”
Virginia’s unique position means you’ve probably had to clarify to outsiders that it’s a blend of both southern and northern culture, with its own distinct identity.
These experiences capture the quirks, traditions, and daily realities of life in Virginia—proving just how long you’ve truly been a local.
Sources:
- https://www.reddit.com/r/Virginia/comments/ryka0e/what_is_virginia_culture/
- https://kids.kiddle.co/Culture_of_Virginia
- https://thehonestlocal.com/living-virginia-moving/
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8fVHSu3HNxs