Here are 10 experiences that might signal you’ve lived in Western Pennsylvania for far too long:
1. You Say “Yinz” Without Thinking
Western Pennsylvanians use “yinz” as a substitute for “you all” or “you guys.” If this has become second nature, you’re definitely entrenched in the local culture.
2. You Know the Difference Between Sheetz and Wawa
The rivalry between Sheetz (dominant in Western Pennsylvania) and Wawa (popular in Eastern Pennsylvania) is a cultural phenomenon. If you have strong opinions about Sheetz snacks, you’ve been here too long.
3. You Celebrate Groundhog Day Like a National Holiday
Punxsutawney Phil’s weather predictions on Groundhog Day are a big deal here. If you eagerly await his forecast every February, you’re deeply rooted in Western PA traditions.
4. Buck Season Is Practically a School Holiday
In rural Western PA, hunting season is so important that schools sometimes close for the first day of buck season—a unique local quirk.
5. You’ve Mastered “Red Things Up” and Other Local Slang
Expressions like “red things up” (tidy up), “gum bands” (rubber bands), and “jagger bush” (thorny bush) are part of your everyday vocabulary.
6. You’re Used to Cold, Snowy Winters
Harsh winters with heavy snow are a regular part of life in Western Pennsylvania, shaping your daily routines and transportation habits.
7. You’ve Witnessed the Decline of Local Industry
Western Pennsylvania’s history as part of the Rust Belt means you’ve likely seen the effects of deindustrialization, such as fewer jobs at steel mills and changing town dynamics.
8. You’ve Experienced “Crick” Culture
Locals call small streams “cricks,” and if this term feels normal to you, it’s a sign you’ve fully embraced Western PA life.
9. You’re Passionate About Pittsburgh Sports
Whether it’s cheering for the Steelers, Penguins, or Pirates, sports fandom is a way of life here. If your wardrobe includes black and gold, you’ve lived here long enough.
10. You Prefer Dippy Eggs Over Easy Eggs
Ordering “dippy eggs” (soft-cooked eggs with runny yolks for dipping bread) feels natural when dining out—a classic Western PA breakfast staple.
These quirks and traditions highlight the unique culture of Western Pennsylvania!
Sources
- https://www.sroa.com/blog/local-guides/pros-and-cons-of-living-in-pennsylvania
- https://www.everydaysociologyblog.com/2017/08/place-the-sociological-imagination-and-western-pennsylvania.html
- https://www.buzzfeed.com/meganeliscomb/america-regional-quirks
- https://www.enjoytravel.com/us/travel-news/guides/pennsylvania-slang
- https://www.extraspace.com/blog/city-guides/things-to-know-about-living-in-pittsburgh/
