7 Ways You Can Totally Tell Someone Is From Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania is full of beautiful traditions and charming quirks that make the state unique. From cheering for the Steelers to boasting about where to get the best cheesesteak, there are some obvious signs that someone is a true Pennsylvanian.
These are seven of our favorite “I’m from Pennsylvania” traits. But they’re certainly not the only ones; if you’re from Pennsylvania, let us know your favorite giveaways that someone is Pennsylvanian.
Proud of Their Work Ethic
In Pennsylvania, you might meet someone who works at a local factory in Allentown or someone who runs a small family business in Hershey. These people are proud of their strong work ethic, which they learned from generations of hardworking ancestors.
They often tell stories of long shifts, community support, and the satisfaction of a job well done that reflects the spirit of the Keystone State.
This pride is also visible in the many local community projects. In smaller towns, residents join together to renovate historic buildings or support local farmers. The drive to work hard and help each other is a trait that is celebrated in local newspapers and community centers. Every project, no matter how big or small, shows that Pennsylvanians value effort, determination, and teamwork.
They Cheer Loudly for Their Sports Teams
Ask someone from Philadelphia about a game at Lincoln Financial Field, and they will light up talking about the Eagles. They remember every touchdown and chant “E-A-G-L-E-S” with so much excitement that you can almost feel the energy in the stadium.
Over in Pittsburgh, it’s all about the Steelers at Heinz Field. Fans wear black and gold, and they proudly display their memorabilia—sometimes even on their cars.
Whether it’s a cold winter day or a hot summer evening, these fans are ready to cheer on their team with chants like “Here We Go!” and tell stories about legendary plays from games past. Their dedication to football is as strong as the steel for which the city is famous.
They Know Their Local History
A Pennsylvanian might tell you about visiting Independence National Historical Park in Philadelphia, where you can see Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell up close. They often share stories about how the Liberty Bell rang in a time of freedom and how the city played a huge role in America’s birth.
Many locals have even taken trips to places like Valley Forge, where George Washington and his troops once camped during the Revolutionary War.
Some residents attend reenactments in Gettysburg, where they learn about the battle that changed the course of the Civil War. They might proudly tell tourists about the tours that let them walk the fields where soldiers once fought.
They Love Their Food
A true Pennsylvanian will rave about the cheesesteaks from Pat’s King of Steaks or Geno’s Steaks in South Philadelphia. They also know the best time to visit these iconic spots to avoid long lines.
Not only do Pennsylvanians love their cheesesteaks, but they also enjoy soft pretzels from bakeries in Reading that are warm, salty, and just perfect for a quick snack on the go.
In Lancaster County, many locals enjoy a hearty plate of scrapple for breakfast—a dish made from pork and cornmeal that has been a family favorite for generations. They also appreciate the shoofly pies and other goodies you can find at local farmers’ markets.
They Use Unique Words and Phrases
If you visit the Philadelphia area, you might hear someone say, “Pass me that jawn!” The word “jawn” is a flexible term that can mean anything from a sandwich to a car, and it’s a fun part of local slang.
Over in Pittsburgh, you might overhear someone say “yinz” when addressing a group. This word works like “you all” and shows a warm sense of community among the locals.
These words aren’t just vocabulary—they are a way to mark identity. Pennsylvanians grew up using these terms that seem otherwise strange to other Americans.
They Enjoy the Outdoors
Many Pennsylvanians love spending time in nature by exploring places like Ricketts Glen State Park, where you can hike past 22 named waterfalls along scenic trails.
They take pride in their state parks, planning picnics and camping trips during the warmer months. Whether it’s a family trip to Ohiopyle State Park to see the natural waterslides or a quiet day fishing at the Delaware Water Gap, these adventures are part of the local lifestyle.
In the fall, it’s common to see locals driving through the countryside near the Pocono Mountains to admire the bright colors of changing leaves. Some families have annual traditions of visiting local apple orchards or hiking trails that have been used for decades. Their love for the outdoors is not just about fun—it’s a way to connect with the land that has shaped the state’s history and culture.
They Appreciate Arts and Culture
Art is a big deal in cities like Philadelphia, where art-loving locals flock to the Philadelphia Museum of Art to see works by famous painters or visit the Barnes Foundation to view a unique collection of impressionist masterpieces.
Many residents also attend the Philadelphia Fringe Festival, where underground theater groups bring fresh and edgy performances to life.
In Pittsburgh, the cultural scene is just as lively with events like the Pittsburgh JazzFest, which attracts music lovers from all over the state. Small towns across Pennsylvania also host art fairs and craft shows where local artists display handmade jewelry, paintings, and ceramics.
5 Unexpected Reasons the Government Denies Pennsylvanians a Passport
Many Pennsylvanians take it for granted that they’ll receive a U.S. passport after applying for one. However, the government sometimes denies passports for reasons that take them by surprise.
5 Unexpected Reasons the Government Denies Pennsylvanians a Passport
