7 Hills Every Floridian Is Willing To Die On

Floridians may be laid-back in terms of their tropical climate, beach time, and abundance of Vitamin D, but there are certain things that we are very passionate about. Sure, we might fool you with the boardshorts and flip-flops all year round, but we care about things, sometimes to a detriment. There are quite a few hills almost every Floridian is willing to die on, and here are some of our favorites. Life in Florida can sometimes be rather black and white.

1. True Team Spirit: Why Sports Fandom Lasts Even When We Lose

It doesn’t matter if you’re a Gators fan, Dolphins fan, Bucs fan, or otherwise – that’s your team, and you’re sticking to it. Fandom in Florida doesn’t change with a win or a loss. Nor a championship trophy. Sure, fancy stadiums are cool, but Florida sports fans will ride with their team no matter the circumstance.

2. Cold Weather Doesn’t Scare Us – We Can Handle It

Yes, when temperatures drop below 60 degrees, especially in South Florida, you’ll see quite a few glove sets, scarves, and winter hats. BUT we will swear up and down that this weather isn’t miserable even if our teeth are chattering.

3. Which Beach Is the Best? A Question We’ll Always Debate

Your preference for the best beach in Florida might change depending on where you live. Those who live along Florida's east coast will swear the Atlantic is best, while Gulf enthusiasts are just as loyal. Then don’t even get us started on the Panhandle.

4. Why Flip-Flops and Sandals Work for Nearly Every Occasion

Flip-flops in winter? Yes. Flip-flops to church? Sure. Flip-flops to get married? Why not – though comfortable, supportive footwear is always a good option too.

5. Before All Hope Is Lost, We Find the Shadiest Parking Spot

Floridians will spend an extra 10 minutes driving around the parking lot to find the perfect shady spot. Or at least as close as possible. Why? Because getting into a steam room of a car that’s been sitting in the sun for hours and trying to click your metal seatbelt while gripping a burning hot steering wheel is a different type of torture.

6. Enjoying Winter Without Snow or Cold Weather

Just because we don’t have snowfall on Christmas or sip hot chocolate to keep warm doesn’t mean we don’t appreciate the holidays. To us, the holidays and cold weather are not synonymous. We still decorate our palm trees with holiday spirit and take pride in it.

7. Why Publix Reigns Supreme Among Grocery Stores

Listen, Whole Foods is great. Trader Joe's does the job. Winn-Dixie has great deals. But have you ever indulged in a fresh Publix deli sub? Have you ever stumbled across a buy-one-get-one that saves you a ton of money? And don’t even get us started on the friendly employees and impeccable seasonal displays!

Being a passionate Floridian is nothing to be ashamed of. It makes us exactly who we are – proud of our state. Which of these hills that every Floridian will die on do you most relate to?

Let's keep this state pride train going! Take a look at these 20 reasons why Florida is the best state in the country. Inspired to explore the Sunshine State? Check out the OIYS itinerary planner!