Diehard Cultural American Traditions That Are Actually Pretty Cringe

Diehard Cultural American Traditions That Are Actually Pretty Cringe

America is a melting pot of traditions, customs, and quirks that make it unique. While some of these traditions are beloved and celebrated, others might make you want to cringe. So, let’s talk about some of these diehard American traditions that might just make you squirm.

1. Singing The National Anthem At Every Sporting Event

Ah, the time-honored tradition of standing up, removing your baseball cap, and belting out the national anthem before every single game. While undeniably patriotic, it’s become such a staple that sometimes it feels like we’re more focused on the high notes than the actual significance. Some people even bet on how long it’s going to take. The intriguing part is that this practice isn’t as universal as we might think; not every country belts out a tune before watching people in uniforms chase balls around a field (here’s the history behind how it all started, according to ESPN). Sometimes, the challenge of remembering all the lyrics turns into a group effort, not to mention the giggles when someone starts a note too high.

Then there’s the pressure on the poor soul who’s been chosen to sing— everyone’s a critic, and pitch-perfect is a must unless you want to be the next viral sensation for all the wrong reasons. The anthem is meant to unite, but more often than not, it’s a tense three-minute performance critique. Given all of this, perhaps we should ask ourselves if this ritual is enhancing our national pride or just testing our vocal cords. Either way, if you’ve ever cringed during a particularly off-key rendition, you’re not alone.

2. Over-The-Top Promposals

Remember when a simple “Will you go to prom with me?” sufficed? Now, “promposals” have taken center stage, with high expectations and lots of pressure. Teens (and let’s be honest, their parents too) are throwing elaborate events that can rival marriage proposals. From flash mobs to skywriting, the creativity has reached unprecedented levels. It’s not just about asking anymore; it’s about outdoing everyone else in the school.

The worst part is the social media pressure where every promposal gets posted and judged. Did yours go viral? Was it unique enough? It’s hard to believe this is still about attending a high school dance. And while it’s great to celebrate young love and friendships, maybe we should hit pause and ask if all this flair is necessary. Prom is supposed to be a memorable night, but the lead-up now almost overshadows the event itself.

3. Insistence On Pumpkin Spice Everything

When fall hits, so does the unstoppable wave of pumpkin spice everything—lattes, candles, pastries, you name it. It’s like the world decided that fall isn’t really fall without this particular flavor combo. But let’s be honest, how many of us are genuinely tasting pumpkin in our beloved PSLs? The craze has reached levels where even dog treats and deodorants boast pumpkin spice. In fact, its cult status has recently been affirmed by a CBS News investigation, which found that sales of pumpkin spice-related products topped $800 million in the 12-month period ending in July 2023.

What started as a seasonal trend has evolved into a hallmark of American autumn, but is it a tradition or a marketing gimmick? The aroma of nutmeg and cinnamon is lovely, but it doesn’t need to dominate every product in the grocery aisle. There’s a point where one might think, “Not everything needs to be infused with this.” A little restraint could help us appreciate the essence of fall without turning it into a one-note season.

4. Lavish Gender Reveal Parties

What started as a cake-cutting ceremony has ballooned (sometimes literally) into massive events filled with pyrotechnics and social media live streams. While the idea is sweet—celebrating new life and sharing news with loved ones—the execution can sometimes be over-the-top. The pressure to make it memorable has led to some cringeworthy and even dangerous situations (seriously—according to CNN, it caused a death). Remember the wildfire caused by a gender reveal gone wrong?

Moreover, when did it become more about the spectacle than the celebration? Instead of intimate gatherings, we’re often treated to viral videos of planes dropping colored smoke or confetti cannons going off in backyards. It’s as if there’s an unwritten rule that your gender reveal must outdo everyone else’s. As delightful as it is to know if it’s a boy or girl, maybe we should consider scaling it back and focusing on what truly matters: the impending arrival of a little one, not the extravaganza that announces it.

5. The Presidential Turkey Pardon

Each Thanksgiving, the President of the United States ceremonially pardons a turkey, sparing it from the dinner table. While it’s a lighthearted tradition, it’s also one that can feel oddly out of place given the serious nature of the presidency. The theatrics of the event—complete with a formal announcement and photo ops—sometimes border on the absurd. According to the White House Historical Association, the practice was formalized in 1989 by President George H.W. Bush, who announced that year’s turkey had “been granted a presidential pardon as of right now.”

It’s a fun moment of levity, but it also raises questions about its relevance. Is this the best use of presidential time? Perhaps it’s harmless fun, but it’s also one of those quirks that makes you stop and wonder how it ever became a thing. If nothing else, it’s a reminder that even the highest office in the land isn’t immune to a little holiday humor.

6. Super Bowl Commercial Obsession

In America, the commercials during the Super Bowl are almost as important as the game itself. Every year, millions tune in to watch the most creative, funny, or heartwarming ads that companies spend millions of dollars to produce. It’s a tradition that turns a football game into a cultural event.

While the ads are often entertaining, the obsession can feel a bit much. Debates about which commercial was best sometimes overshadow the actual game. It’s worth enjoying the creativity without letting it dominate the conversation. After all, the Super Bowl is about football—or at least it’s supposed to be.

7. Tailgating Being Just As Important As The Game

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Few traditions are as quintessentially American as tailgating. It’s not just about the game—it’s about the pre-game party in the parking lot. Grills, coolers, and folding chairs transform asphalt into a celebration of food, drink, and fandom. While it’s a beloved tradition, it’s also one that can spiral into excess.

Some tailgates are so elaborate they rival the game itself, complete with custom setups, catered food, and elaborate themes. The camaraderie is wonderful, but it’s worth asking if all the effort and expense are necessary. Maybe scaling back and enjoying the simpler pleasures of a hot dog and a cold drink could make tailgating feel less like a production and more like a gathering.

8. The Obsession With College-Level Sports

In America, college sports are more than just games—they’re events that rival professional leagues in attendance and enthusiasm. From tailgate parties to epic rivalries, the passion is intense, and the stakes seem incredibly high. Yet, it’s fascinating how much rides on the shoulders of young athletes who juggle both sports and academics. It’s as if their performance on the field somehow becomes a reflection of the school pride.

And while supporting your alma mater is great, sometimes it feels like the pressure and expectations exceed what’s reasonable. The fandom can be borderline extreme, with people planning their lives around game schedules and travel plans to cheer on their favorite teams. It’s a tradition that inspires loyalty, but at what cost? Perhaps celebrating the student-athlete’s achievements without treating them as the be-all and end-all of collegiate pride would be a healthier approach.

9. The Insanity Of Black Friday Sales

Every year, the day after Thanksgiving transforms into a battlefield of shopping carts, long lines, and frenzied bargain hunters. Black Friday has become an American ritual, where snagging the best deal often takes precedence over basic human decency. Stories of stampedes and fistfights over discounted TVs make you wonder if the savings are really worth it.

While the thrill of the hunt is undeniable, the chaos often overshadows the spirit of the season. Do we really need to wake up at 4 a.m. to fight for a toaster? Online shopping has thankfully offered a more civilized alternative, but the in-person madness persists. Perhaps the real bargain lies in reclaiming your peace of mind and skipping the frenzy altogether.

10. Clapping When The Plane Lands

If you’ve ever been on a flight that ended with a round of applause, you’ve witnessed this uniquely American tradition. It’s as if passengers are congratulating the pilot for doing their job—which, admittedly, is an important one. While it’s a gesture of appreciation, it often leaves international travelers scratching their heads.

Some see it as unnecessary or even awkward, while others embrace it as a moment of shared relief after a bumpy ride. Love it or hate it, clapping upon landing has become one of those quirks that’s hard to explain but impossible to ignore. Maybe we should save the applause for particularly challenging landings or, better yet, express our gratitude directly to the crew instead of turning the cabin into an impromptu concert hall.

11. The Compulsive Need For Bigger And Better

The American dream often equates to having the biggest house, the flashiest car, or the latest gadget. This never-ending race for bigger and better is deeply ingrained, but it can also feel exhausting. It’s a cultural tradition that encourages constant upgrading, sometimes at the expense of happiness. Instead of appreciating what we have, there’s a continuous push to want more.

While striving for success is admirable, it’s worth questioning if this tradition is fulfilling or if it’s just adding unnecessary stress. The need for more has led to enormous personal debt and a culture of comparison that can be demoralizing. Maybe it’s time to embrace the idea that less can indeed be more. Finding contentment in the present rather than chasing the next upgrade could be a refreshing change.

12. Overeating On Thanksgiving Day

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Thanksgiving is synonymous with gratitude and feasts, but somewhere along the way, it turned into a nationwide food binge. We all know the drill: stuffing ourselves until we’re in a food coma, then complaining about how full we are. It’s a tradition to pile your plate sky-high and go back for seconds—because who can resist Aunt Martha’s sweet potato casserole? Yet, it’s also a time when we waste incredible amounts of food because our eyes are often bigger than our stomachs.

While it’s a day to indulge, maybe there’s room for moderation, too. It’s not about denying the joy of a good meal but finding a balance that doesn’t involve unbuttoning your pants at the dinner table. Perhaps focusing a bit more on gratitude and less on gluttony can make the holiday feel more genuine and less like an eating competition. Not to mention, it leaves more room for the best part: the leftovers.

13. The Love Affair With Fast Food

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America’s fast-food culture is known worldwide, offering convenience, variety, and the infamous “supersize” options. While it’s undeniably convenient, this tradition has also cultivated an unhealthy relationship with food. Drive-thrus and quick service are part of daily life, but the nutritional value often takes a backseat. There’s a comfort in grabbing a burger and fries, but also a realization that this habit is a double-edged sword.

While fast food is a staple of American tradition, it’s also contributed to health challenges that can be overlooked in the name of convenience. The question is, have we let this tradition overshadow the importance of balanced, nutritious meals? Finding a happy medium between indulging in these treats and maintaining a healthy lifestyle might be the key to keeping this tradition enjoyable without the guilt.

14. Talking To Strangers Whenever, Wherever

Small talk with strangers is practically an art form in America. Whether it’s chatting in line at the grocery store or making conversation with your Uber driver, Americans love to strike up casual exchanges. For visitors from more reserved cultures, this can feel invasive or downright strange.

While it can be charming and foster a sense of community, there’s also the flip side—sometimes, you just don’t want to talk. Not every interaction needs commentary on the weather or a detailed account of your day. Maybe we could all benefit from reading the room before launching into a monologue. Being approachable is great, but respecting boundaries might be even better.

15. Going All Out And Decorating For Every Holiday

From Valentine’s Day hearts to Easter bunnies and Halloween skeletons, Americans have taken holiday decorations to a new level. It’s no longer just about Christmas trees and lights—now, every holiday gets its own yard invasion. Giant inflatable turkeys, glowing shamrocks, and patriotic Uncle Sams have turned neighborhoods into seasonal displays.

While it’s fun and festive, some might wonder if we’ve gone a bit overboard. The effort, cost, and storage space required for these ever-changing displays can feel excessive. Do we really need a 10-foot cupid in February or a pumpkin the size of a car in October? Maybe scaling back and enjoying the simpler joys of each holiday could make them feel more special rather than part of a constant decorating competition.

Danielle is a lifestyle writer with over 10 years of experience crafting relatable content for both major media companies and startups.