16 Texas Traditions You Can’t Break Without Losing Your Texas Card

Texas is a state like no other, filled with unique traditions, strong values, and a distinct way of life. Texans are known for their friendliness, hospitality, and pride in their state, but there are certain things you just don’t do or say if you want to stay in good standing with the locals. In fact, some actions or words are so taboo, they’ll get your Texas card revoked faster than you can say “Y’all.” Whether you’re a newcomer or a seasoned Texan, it’s essential to understand the unspoken rules that make the Lone Star State what it is. Here’s a guide to the 16 things you should never say or do in Texas if you want to keep your card and your reputation intact.

1. Calling Soda “Pop”

If you call soda “pop” in Texas, you’ve already committed a cardinal sin. In Texas, anything that is fizzy and sweet is called “Coke”—no exceptions. Whether it’s Sprite, Pepsi, or Dr. Pepper, they’re all considered a type of “Coke.” The only exception to this rule is, of course, the beloved Dr. Pepper, which is a Texan original. So, leave the term “pop” for other places—calling it “Coke” is the only way to go.

2. Following the Speed Limit

Texans are law-abiding citizens, but when it comes to the speed limit, it’s almost a joke. You’ll quickly learn that following the speed limit can get you some strange looks. If you’re driving the speed limit and not passing people, you’ll probably find yourself being tailgated, honked at, or yelled at. Speeding is almost a requirement in Texas, and you’d better be prepared to keep up with the fast-paced driving culture.

3. Putting Beans in Chili

In Texas, chili is sacred. It is a meat-based stew with no room for beans, tomatoes, or anything else that could possibly taint its pure, spicy glory. If you put beans in your chili, it’s considered an offense punishable by disapproval. Chili with beans is simply not chili in Texas—it’s just a meat soup, and no Texan worth their salt will tolerate such an atrocity.

4. Football Isn’t Just a Game, It’s a Religion

Football in Texas is more than just a sport; it’s a way of life. In fact, it’s so ingrained in the state’s culture that it might as well be considered a religion. From high school games on Friday nights to NFL Sundays, football takes center stage in Texas. If you show up to a football game late, or worse, if you don’t show any enthusiasm or knowledge about the game, be prepared for the consequences. Texans take their football very seriously.

5. Disrespecting Blue Bell Ice Cream

Blue Bell Ice Cream is more than just a treat in Texas—it’s a cultural icon. When the company had an outbreak of contamination a few years ago, Texans were furious that it took so long for the ice cream to return to stores. The love for Blue Bell runs so deep that some consider it a matter of state pride. So, if you dare to disrespect Blue Bell, you may as well be disrespecting Texas itself.

6. Deep Frying Anything (and Everything)

In Texas, if it can be deep-fried, it will be. And if you haven’t deep-fried it, then you haven’t truly experienced Texas cuisine. Deep-frying isn’t limited to the usual suspects like chicken or fries. No, in Texas, you can deep-fry just about anything, including beer. It’s an art form, and if you haven’t tried a deep-fried something, you’re missing out on a quintessential part of Texas culture.

7. In-N-Out vs. Whataburger

Texans love their fast food, and when it comes to burgers, there is only one king: Whataburger. While In-N-Out may be popular in other parts of the country, it simply doesn’t compare to Whataburger in the eyes of a true Texan. The rivalry is real, and if you even dare to suggest that In-N-Out is better than Whataburger, you’re asking for trouble.

8. Manners Are a Must

Texans are known for their politeness and respect for others, and good manners are a key part of life here. Saying “yes, ma’am,” “no, ma’am,” “yes, sir,” and “no, sir” isn’t just polite—it’s expected. If you fail to use these terms of respect, you might be perceived as rude, and no one wants to be that person in Texas.

9. “You Guys” Is a No-Go

In Texas, the only acceptable way to refer to a group of people is “y’all.” The term “you guys” is not only grammatically incorrect but also a major faux pas. “Y’all” is inclusive, friendly, and unique to the South, and it’s the only way to address a group of people. So, if you slip up and say “you guys,” expect to be quickly corrected.

10. Unsweet Tea Is an Abomination

In Texas, tea is sweet—period. Unsweet tea is practically a sin, and if you order it in a restaurant, you’ll likely get a confused look. If you’re a diabetic, it’s understandable, but if you’re just choosing unsweet tea out of preference, prepare for some serious side-eye. Texans take their sweet tea seriously, and it’s a staple of Southern hospitality.

11. Not Owning a New Rifle

Texans are proud of their Second Amendment rights, and owning a rifle is practically a rite of passage. A new rifle is not just a luxury—it’s a necessity. Texans enjoy hunting, shooting sports, and just having a new rifle as part of their collection. If you don’t understand why Texans are so obsessed with getting a new rifle now and then, you’re going to miss out on an important part of the culture.

12. Complaining About the Summer Heat

Texans don’t mind the heat—they embrace it. Anything below 98 degrees is considered “comfortable,” and anything below 80 is considered a cold day. Complaining about the summer heat in Texas will make you stand out, and not in a good way. In Texas, you’re expected to handle the heat with grace and composure. Anything less is simply unacceptable.

13. Talking About Miles Instead of Hours

Texas is big—really big. And when it comes to distances, miles don’t mean much to Texans. Instead, when someone asks how far something is, the response will usually be, “It’s about how long it’ll take to get there.” So, if you’re talking about the distance in miles, you’re just not getting it. In Texas, time is more important than distance.

14. Shiner Beer Is Sacred

Shiner Beer is more than just a beverage in Texas; it’s a symbol of local pride. Disrespecting Shiner is like disrespecting the state itself. So, if you show disdain for Shiner or suggest any other beer is superior, you’ll find yourself facing some serious Texan wrath. Shiner is the drink of choice for many, and it’s simply not to be challenged.

15. Fishing Isn’t Just a Hobby, It’s a Lifestyle

Fishing is not a pastime in Texas—it’s a way of life. Many Texans will drop everything to go fishing, and it’s considered a time for relaxation, reflection, and bonding. If you say fishing is a waste of time, you might as well say goodbye to your Texas card, because no true Texan would ever agree with that statement.

16. Saying No to Chips and Salsa

If you refuse chips and salsa at a Tex-Mex restaurant, you might as well leave. Tex-Mex isn’t just a meal—it’s an experience, and chips and salsa are part of that experience. Rejecting them is seen as nothing short of sacrilege. If you’re not interested in the chips and salsa, maybe you’re in the wrong state.

Conclusion: Don’t Mess with Texas Culture

These 16 things might seem trivial to outsiders, but for Texans, they’re the backbone of the state’s culture and way of life. From the way we talk to the food we eat, everything in Texas is bigger, bolder, and, of course, full of pride. So, if you want to maintain your Texas card, be sure to steer clear of these cultural missteps. After all, being a Texan is about more than just geography—it’s about embracing the heart and soul of the Lone Star State.

Disclaimer – Our editorial team has thoroughly fact-checked this article to ensure its accuracy and eliminate any potential misinformation. We are dedicated to upholding the highest standards of integrity in our content.

About The Author