Here in Mississippi, we have our own way of doing things…and that includes the holidays. From certain foods to unique celebrations, the season just wouldn’t be complete without specific traditions. And while these annual customs are our norm, others may think they’re a bit strange. Not so sure? Read on for 7 wonderfully weird and wacky traditions you’ll only get if you’re from Mississippi.
- Celebrating with fireworks.
Christa (Burns) Porter/Flickr You know the holidays are just around the corner when you see fireworks stands going up all over town. And while residents of other states save the fireworks for New Years, many Mississippians start the celebration a bit earlier with a Christmas fireworks show.
- Deep frying turkey.
Mike Roberts/Flickr In Mississippi, we like to fry, well, just about anything…and that includes turkeys. A holiday favorite, the turkey comes out crunchy on the outside and juicy and flavorful on the inside. Though this tradition started in the South, it’s (not surprisingly) catching on in other parts of the country.
- Serving pimento cheese.
Leslie/Flickr No holiday season in Mississippi would be complete without pimento cheese. From family gatherings to workplace parties, the classic is sure to make an appearance.
- Eating lots of oysters.
Orbital Joe/Flickr Though we Mississippians love oysters year round, they’re a must during the holidays. And while some serve them on the half shell, most use them to make oyster dressing. The tasty dish is a staple at Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners all across the state.
- Attending a boat parade.
Biloxi Boardwalk Marina/Facebook Christmas on the Gulf Coast may not be white but that doesn’t mean it won’t be merry. One way coastal residents get into the spirit of the season is Biloxi’s Christmas on the Water Boat Parade. Now in its 32nd year, the festive event is a long held tradition that’s enjoyed by the young and old alike.
- Decking the…trees.
Old Town Bay St. Louis/Facebook Here in Mississippi, Christmas trees aren’t the only ones that get set aglow. Nope, residents of the Magnolia State like to deck pretty much every type of tree. You’ll find glistening lights wrapped around oaks, palm trees, and whatever else happens to be growing nearby.
- Putting up non-traditional displays.
Flickr/Natalie Maynor When it comes to Christmas decorations, Mississippians don’t limit themselves to holiday themed items. Drive around the state, and you’ll find some not-so-standard décor, which includes everything from patriotic pieces to seafood.
Do you partake in these holiday traditions? What others would you add to this list? Tell us in the comments section.
Christa (Burns) Porter/Flickr
You know the holidays are just around the corner when you see fireworks stands going up all over town. And while residents of other states save the fireworks for New Years, many Mississippians start the celebration a bit earlier with a Christmas fireworks show.
Mike Roberts/Flickr
In Mississippi, we like to fry, well, just about anything…and that includes turkeys. A holiday favorite, the turkey comes out crunchy on the outside and juicy and flavorful on the inside. Though this tradition started in the South, it’s (not surprisingly) catching on in other parts of the country.
Leslie/Flickr
No holiday season in Mississippi would be complete without pimento cheese. From family gatherings to workplace parties, the classic is sure to make an appearance.
Orbital Joe/Flickr
Though we Mississippians love oysters year round, they’re a must during the holidays. And while some serve them on the half shell, most use them to make oyster dressing. The tasty dish is a staple at Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners all across the state.
Biloxi Boardwalk Marina/Facebook
Christmas on the Gulf Coast may not be white but that doesn’t mean it won’t be merry. One way coastal residents get into the spirit of the season is Biloxi’s Christmas on the Water Boat Parade. Now in its 32nd year, the festive event is a long held tradition that’s enjoyed by the young and old alike.
Old Town Bay St. Louis/Facebook
Here in Mississippi, Christmas trees aren’t the only ones that get set aglow. Nope, residents of the Magnolia State like to deck pretty much every type of tree. You’ll find glistening lights wrapped around oaks, palm trees, and whatever else happens to be growing nearby.
Flickr/Natalie Maynor
When it comes to Christmas decorations, Mississippians don’t limit themselves to holiday themed items. Drive around the state, and you’ll find some not-so-standard décor, which includes everything from patriotic pieces to seafood.
If you enjoyed this, check out “Here Are 11 Crazy Traditions You’ll Totally Get If You’re From Mississippi.“
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