Michigan, the Great Lakes State, is not only known for its stunning natural beauty and automotive prowess but also for its unique and sometimes strange customs. From quirky festivals to unusual traditions, Michigan has a cultural tapestry that is as diverse as its landscape.
10 Unusual Traditions from Michigan
Michigan, often referred to as the Great Lakes State due to its proximity to five of the largest lakes in North America, is known for its rich assortment of idiosyncratic customs and noteworthy features. The city of Detroit, the birthplace of Motown music, is where the "Devil's Night" tradition of pre-Halloween mischief and vandalism was once widely practiced, though it has since been rebranded as "Angel's Night" to encourage community involvement in preventing arson.
Michiganders or Michiganians also embrace winter with gusto, participating in the annual Polar Plunge, where brave souls take icy dips into the Great Lakes. Moreover, Michigan's Upper Peninsula has its customs, with residents proudly calling themselves "Yoopers" and even having their dialect and quirky pasties, a type of meat and vegetable pie. The state's sports hunting culture is so ingrained that some areas in Michigan observe the unofficial "Opening Day" holiday for deer hunting season, with schools and businesses closing. While sometimes strange to outsiders, these customs are threads in the vibrant cultural tapestry that makes Michigan unique.
Here are ten strange customs that make Michigan genuinely one-of-a-kind.
The Mystery of the Michigan Left
One of the most baffling customs to outsiders is the "Michigan Left." Instead of making a direct left turn at an intersection, drivers are often required to turn right, and then make a U-turn through a median crossover. This peculiar traffic maneuver is designed to improve traffic flow and reduce accidents, but it can certainly make it clear for those unfamiliar with the practice.
Euchre: The Unofficial Card Game
Euchre, a trick-taking card game, is a beloved pastime in Michigan. It's not uncommon to find Euchre tournaments and casual games happening in homes and community centers across the state. The game's popularity is such that it's often considered a rite of passage to learn how to play.
The Legend of the Nain Rouge
In Detroit folklore, the Nain Rouge is a red dwarf that is said to appear as a harbinger of doom. Each year, Detroiters hold the Marche du Nain Rouge, a parade where they chase the evil creatures out of the city to ward off bad luck for the coming year.
The Coney Island Hot Dog Rivalry
Michigan takes its Coney Island hot dogs seriously, with a longstanding rivalry between American Coney Island and Lafayette Coney Island, located in downtown Detroit. These establishments serve a unique style of hot dog topped with chili, onions, and mustard, and locals are fiercely loyal to their favorite.
The Frozen Fish Toss
In the small town of Beulah, the annual Winterfest includes a peculiar event: the frozen fish toss. Participants compete to see who can hurl a frozen fish the farthest. This strange custom is a testament to Michigan's love for the quirky and the cold.
The Haunting of the Paulding Light
For decades, residents and visitors in Paulding have been mystified by the Paulding Light, an unexplained light that appears in the night sky. While some believe it's a ghostly phenomenon, others attribute it to car headlights from a nearby highway. Regardless, visiting and speculating on its origins has become a strange local custom.
The Humongous Fungus Fest
In Crystal Falls, the Humongous Fungus Fest celebrates a giant fungus that covers over 37 acres underground. The festival includes a parade, games, and the serving of a giant mushroom pizza made in honor of the fungal celebrity.
The Porcupine Mountains Music Festival
Every year, music lovers gather in the Porcupine Mountains for a music festival that's as unique as its name. The festival features a variety of genres and celebrates the region's natural beauty and artistic talent.
The Tug-of-War Across the St. Clair River
In an unusual display of international relations, Port Huron, Michigan, and Sarnia, Ontario, residents engage in an annual tug-of-war across the St. Clair River. This friendly competition symbolizes the close ties between the two border communities.
The U.P. 200 Sled Dog Race
The Upper Peninsula is home to the U.P. 200, a sled dog race that covers 240 miles of challenging terrain. This event draws mushers and spectators from all over and is a qualifying race for the Iditarod. It's a testament to Michigan's love for winter sports and its canine companions.
Final Thoughts On Michigan Customs
Michigan's strange customs are what Michigan is known for. It's as diverse and fascinating as the state itself. From the Michigan Left to the U.P. 200, these traditions add color and character to the Great Lakes State. They reflect the history, humor, and heart of Michigan's residents, making it a unique place to visit and an even more special place to live. Whether you're tossing a frozen fish or cheering on sled dogs, you're participating in quintessentially Michigan customs. These ten strange customs only scratch the surface of what makes Michigan a state unlike any other.