Illinoisans have some interesting quirks when it comes to how we eat, speak, and live – and we like it that way. Visitors from all over the world come to our fair state, and though it seems they enjoy themselves, they are sometimes a bit confused about the intricacies that make Illinois tick. Here’s what we residents always have to explain to them:
- No matter the forecast, be prepared.
Hernan Pinera/Flickr The weather is volatile in Illinois, so we may wear shorts one day and a parka the next. Do like the locals do, and dress in layers.
- That’s not how you pronounce it…
Laura Niemeyer Hopson/Facebook Illinois cities have some tricky names! A good starting point: remember that Sauget is saw-ZHAY, Vergennes is ver-JENZ, and Loogootee is luh-GO-tee.
- Caramel and cheddar are a match made in heaven.
snowpea&bokchoi/Flickr We know it might not sound delectable, but mixing caramel and cheddar flavored popcorn is simply amazing.
- We aren’t all Cubs or White Sox fans around here.
BluEyedA73/Flickr In fact, nearly the entire southern half of the state roots for the Cardinals.
- It’s actually a good thing that your bread is soggy.
John Verive/Flickr When it comes to Italian beef sandwiches, soggy bread is what you want. Just try it and you’ll see why.
- Yes, Chicagoans do celebrate Casimir Pulaski Day.
Brandie Heinel/Flickr Backed by a large Polish population, the city of Chicago celebrates the Revolutionary War cavalry officer every year. On the first Monday in March, you’ll see a lot more kids running around during the day, because they get the day off of school!
- A horseshoe is something you eat.
Ryan Harvey/Flickr Hailing from Springfield, the horseshoe sandwich consists of toast, a hamburger patty, fries, and cheese sauce. You absolutely must give it a try.
- Being “on LSD” isn’t illegal.
kosheahan/Flickr LSD is short for Lake Shore Drive, the expressway that runs along the shoreline of Lake Michigan in Chicago. It’s a 100% legal and 100% beautiful drive through the city.
- THE “S” IS SILENT!
Ken Lund/Flickr Please, whatever you do, do not pronounce the “s” in “Illinois”. You really should know better.
- We’ve got a lot more than just fields.
doggo/Flickr Don’t think for a second that a trip to Illinois means walking through cornfields. Yes, you can do that, but you can also experience forests, rolling hills, raging rivers, and beautiful lakes when you visit the Prairie State.
- Go ahead, touch Lincoln’s nose. It’s okay.
Daniel X. O’Neil/Flickr We like to think it’s good luck to rub the nose of the Lincoln statue in Springfield. Even if you’re not superstitious, what harm could it do?
- You really should get out of Chicago.
Roman Boed/Flickr Chicago is an incredible city jam-packed with things to do and see, but the rest of our fair state is equally awesome. Take the time to venture out across Illinois; you won’t regret it.
Use this as a guide the next time you’re visiting Illinois, and you’ll blend right in with the locals! And while you’re at it, here are 11 Surefire Ways to Always Spot a Tourist in Illinois – so be sure to avoid those pitfalls.
Hernan Pinera/Flickr
The weather is volatile in Illinois, so we may wear shorts one day and a parka the next. Do like the locals do, and dress in layers.
Laura Niemeyer Hopson/Facebook
Illinois cities have some tricky names! A good starting point: remember that Sauget is saw-ZHAY, Vergennes is ver-JENZ, and Loogootee is luh-GO-tee.
snowpea&bokchoi/Flickr
We know it might not sound delectable, but mixing caramel and cheddar flavored popcorn is simply amazing.
BluEyedA73/Flickr
In fact, nearly the entire southern half of the state roots for the Cardinals.
John Verive/Flickr
When it comes to Italian beef sandwiches, soggy bread is what you want. Just try it and you’ll see why.
Brandie Heinel/Flickr
Backed by a large Polish population, the city of Chicago celebrates the Revolutionary War cavalry officer every year. On the first Monday in March, you’ll see a lot more kids running around during the day, because they get the day off of school!
Ryan Harvey/Flickr
Hailing from Springfield, the horseshoe sandwich consists of toast, a hamburger patty, fries, and cheese sauce. You absolutely must give it a try.
kosheahan/Flickr
LSD is short for Lake Shore Drive, the expressway that runs along the shoreline of Lake Michigan in Chicago. It’s a 100% legal and 100% beautiful drive through the city.
Ken Lund/Flickr
Please, whatever you do, do not pronounce the “s” in “Illinois”. You really should know better.
doggo/Flickr
Don’t think for a second that a trip to Illinois means walking through cornfields. Yes, you can do that, but you can also experience forests, rolling hills, raging rivers, and beautiful lakes when you visit the Prairie State.
Daniel X. O’Neil/Flickr
We like to think it’s good luck to rub the nose of the Lincoln statue in Springfield. Even if you’re not superstitious, what harm could it do?
Roman Boed/Flickr
Chicago is an incredible city jam-packed with things to do and see, but the rest of our fair state is equally awesome. Take the time to venture out across Illinois; you won’t regret it.
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