Who here hasn't squeezed their own orange juice or learned to truly appreciate a green Christmas? If you're a native Floridian, you probably have. We think these traditions should be kept alive in every Florida family.
1. Fresh-Squeezed Orange Juice
It takes a while and a little effort, but it truly can't be beat.
2. Plastic Flamingos
People might do this in other states, but they'll always look most at home here.
3. Lawn Decorations
Florida's climate is great for growing, and we can get pretty competitive with our landscaping, lawn art, and lawn furniture.
4. Green Holiday Seasons
Most people think of snow-covered rooftops and cuddling up by the fire with hot cocoa when they think of the holiday season, but here there's usually plenty of green, almost never any snow, and sometimes people are still in short sleeves. That doesn't mean we don't get excited about the season, we just do things a little differently.
5. Fishing Trips
Most of us have fond memories of when our father or grandfather taught us to fish. This peaceful pastime is perfect for quality family time.
6. Boiled Peanuts
If you're from Florida, you probably grew up with signs for this salty snack all around you. Believe it or not, some outsiders think boiling a peanut is weird or even gross. It's okay, though, we know the truth. Pictured is the Panhandle Pioneer Settlement's annual peanut boil.
7. Crockpot Cooking
Chances are your grandma had one of these and hopefully you do, too. Crockpots are perfect for cooking in Florida because you don't have to heat up your whole kitchen with the oven during hot summer months, and they're awesome for hearty stews and soups in the winter months.
8. The First Disney Trip
A trip to Disney is a rite of passage in Florida. As soon as kids are old enough to take a spin in a giant teacup (and sometimes earlier) parents are making plans for a trip to Orlando. There are plenty of other theme parks to visit every year, but parents usually start with the iconic Magic Kingdom.
9. Learning to Swim EARLY
Life in Florida revolves around water, so kids are usually taught to swim as soon as possible. Parents want to make their kids strong swimmers early so they participate in more activities and stay safe around all this water.
10. Porches
When looking for a home here, a porch is always a huge plus. Most of us have spent countless hours in quiet contemplation or hanging out with friends here.
11. Iced Tea
This is a traditionally Southern thing Floridians are definitely on board with. It's the perfect beverage for our year-round porch-sitting.
12. Beach Weddings
People usually choose to have beach weddings to do something different, but here they're pretty common. In Florida, you're never far from a beautiful beach, and they make gorgeous settings for wedding photos.
13. Antique Shopping
People of all ages love antiquing here, and there's always an awesome antique store nearby. We have plenty of avid yard sale and estate sale devotees as well.
14. Spending Time With Grandparents
Florida is the perfect place for retirees, so if you're lucky enough to live in Florida, you're usually not far from grandma and grandpa. This is an awesome benefit for kids growing up here, and it's really touching to see multiple generations stay so close.
Did you have any other traditions related to growing up in Florida? Please share them with us in the comments below.
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