1. Playing Fetch with Snowballs
Minnesotans have a unique way of entertaining their dogs in winter-by throwing snowballs for them to fetch. The only problem? The snowball disappears on landing, leaving the dog baffled and the owner amused.
2. The Ritual of Starting Cars in Winter
When temperatures plummet, Minnesotans will often start their cars just to make sure the engine still works, even if they’re not planning to go anywhere. It’s a quirky but practical response to the brutal cold, and sometimes people even leave their cars running while shopping-trusting in “Minnesota Nice” that no one will steal them.
3. Shorts Weather… at 32 Degrees
In most places, 32°F (0°C) means bundling up. In Minnesota, it’s not uncommon to see people break out their shorts and T-shirts as soon as temperatures rise above freezing. After a long winter, it feels positively tropical.
4. The Minnesota Long Goodbye
Saying goodbye in Minnesota is an event in itself. Known as the “Minnesota Long Goodbye,” it can take 30 minutes or more, involving multiple rounds of farewells, lingering at the door, and promises to get together again soon.
5. Never Take the Last Treat
At gatherings, it’s considered poor form to take the last piece of food (like a brownie or donut). If you want more, you’re expected to cut the last one in half, leaving a perpetually shrinking portion for the next polite guest.
6. Hot Dish Culture
Minnesotans are deeply attached to “hot dish,” a local term for casserole. It’s a staple at potlucks and family gatherings, often featuring tater tots, ground beef, and cream of mushroom soup. Outsiders may call it casserole, but in Minnesota, it’s always hot dish.
7. Ice Fishing Houses and Beer on the Lake
When lakes freeze over, Minnesotans don’t just walk or drive on them-they build little houses on the ice for fishing, socializing, and sometimes drinking beer. Ice fishing is less about catching fish and more about community and tradition.
8. Unique Slang and Communication
Minnesotans have their own way of saying things. For example, “Yeah, no” means “No,” while “No, yeah” means “Yes.” The phrase “kitty-corner” is used for things diagonally across from each other. These linguistic quirks can confuse newcomers but are endearing once you catch on.
Minnesota’s quirks are a blend of climate-driven habits, cultural traditions, and a distinct sense of community. These unusual customs make life in the Land of 10,000 Lakes both charming and memorable.
Sources:
- https://www.exploreminnesota.com/media/facts-figures
- https://daymakersmoving.com/blog/20-fun-facts-about-minnesota/
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AKh0kiVVnzM
- https://y105fm.com/explore-5-unique-facts-you-may-not-know-about-minnesota/
- https://kids.kiddle.co/Culture_of_Minnesota
- https://getknitevents.com/minnesotans-odd/