1

Dance marathons

Image: Ardian Lumi

Dancing has always been a praised activity for having some fun and passing the time. It’s simple and requires nothing but a music-playing device. So, back in the ‘20s, people felt the need to find a new twist for this basic entertainment and so they thought making dance marathons was a great idea.

How did they work? The concept was as simple as dancing: Couples would compete to see who could dance the longest all for a shot at cash prizes. But we’re not talking hours here—the contest could last for days! Audiences watched in fascination (and a bit of morbid curiosity, we might add) as exhausted dancers pushed their bodies to the limit. Remember, this was a time when missing out on a chance for quick money and a bit of fun was not a possibility!

2

Flagpole sitting

Image: Jonathan Simcoe

We don’t know if he was trying to break a record or if he just needed some alone time, but after Alvin "Shipwreck" Kelly climbed atop a flagpole in 1924 and stayed there for over 13 hours, a new fad was born: flagpole sitting.

And speaking of basic trends, this is exactly as you read it: People all over America were climbing up and sitting on flagpoles to see how long they could stay up there. We can all agree that these people were after entertainment and a bit of competition. And it got so serious the record eventually stretched to an astonishing 49 days!

By the 1930s, though, the thrill wore off and the fad faded, but the absurdity of it all remains—and earned it a spot on this list!

3

Stickball and stoopball

Image: Jeremy Stewardson

Sports today are no longer just about playing the game. For most of them, you need a lot of equipment, which is rather expensive, especially if you’re going to use it in the streets with your friends from the block.

Back in the ‘20s, baseball equipment was hard to come by. As a result, American kids in crowded urban areas came up with their own inventive versions of the game: stickball and stoopball. The fun behind this trend? Using whatever they had on hand to play: Broomsticks for bats, rubber balls, and parked cars or stoops as bases. The games required nothing more than creativity and a few friends. And no one can deny—the 1920s were indeed a creative time!

4

Johnny on a pony

Image: freestocks

This is a trend that started in the 1940s, and the names used for this game are simply hilarious: "Strong horses, weak donkeys," "Hunch, Cuddy, Hunch," just to name a few.

Johnny on a Pony, or Buck Buck, was a rough-and-tumble game in which one team bent over to form a "horse" while the other team took turns jumping on their backs, trying to knock them over .

You may think this was innocent, but not quite—it was chaotic, sometimes painful, and, more often than not, left participants in a pile of tangled limbs.

Kids do not care for those things, but the game’s physical nature made it exhilarating and dangerous at the same time. That’s why, eventually, concerned parents and schools stepped in and banned it—one too many injuries to keep it going!

5

Drive-In movie theaters

Image: Tim Mossholder

Movie theaters are great, but drive-in movie theaters are even better—they were the ultimate fusion of America’s love for cars and entertainment.

The first official drive-in theater opened in 1933, and it was an alternative for families to a fun and affordable night out under the night sky, watching a movie from the comfort of their car . No wonder this quickly became a beloved American pastime. And you can already imagine whose favorite this was: Teens and young couples, who enjoyed the privacy of their cars while watching the latest films of the time.

The trend slowly faded as film rentals became more popular, and later with the rise of streaming platforms. However, keep an eye out for this one, because it’s definitely making a comeback!

6

Miniature golf

Image: Will Porada

Some may argue that the fad behind miniature golf never actually died, and that’s partially true. But let’s go back to the time it first appeared and all the craze that erupted around it.

It wasn’t until Garnet Carter opened his "Tom Thumb" golf course in 1927 that miniature golf became a true sensation . Located in Lookout Mountain, Tennessee, Carter’s course wasn’t just about putting greens; it also featured miniature goblins, gnomes, and other fun obstacles for players.

We don’t know if he knew this would be so successful, but Carter went all in: He patented the design, and it hit the jackpot—miniature golf became a nationwide success.

7

Hood ornaments

Image: Clem Onojeghuo

Funny thing about the past: You didn’t always need to be extravagant to be trendy—sometimes, just a tiny ornament on your car was enough.

In the 1920s and ‘30s, no car was complete without a stylish hood ornament adorning its radiator . At first, these ornaments were designed to check on the engine temperature. But they soon evolved into artistic expressions of each brand to showcase wealth and personality.

We all recognize the winged goddess or the jaguar jumping out of the car, right?

However, this trend didn’t last long. As car designs modernized and safety became a concern, hood ornaments became less common, and eventually, all but disappeared. If you see a car with one of these today, you can bet it’s worth more than one can get in a lifetime!

8

Kilroy was here

Image: Richard Cohrs

There are two generations: One is looking for Waldo, and the other is looking for Kilroy. Which one do you belong to? Now, if you’re wondering who Kilroy is, let us tell you.

Kilroy was a doodle, and the complete drawing consisted of Kilroy and a message that read "Kilroy Was Here." This graffiti popped up just about everywhere during World War II.

The doodle, featuring a bald, long-nosed figure peeking over a wall, was a symbol of American presence and humor. It’s said that Kilroy was originally the work of James J. Kilroy, a shipyard inspector who scrawled it on equipment he inspected.

But that was just the beginning—the drawing spread to every corner of the globe. Have you ever come across one?

9

Swing dancing

Image: Clarisse Meyer

Few things are as time-sensitive and culturally reflective of an era, don’t you think? In the early 20th century, specifically during the 1920s and 1930s, the dance that dominated every dance floor was swing . And it makes perfect sense—this was the Jazz Age, so swing dancing perfectly matched the exuberance of that music!

Dances like the Lindy Hop, Charleston, and Jitterbug took over dance halls, with young people spinning, jumping, and flipping to the infectious rhythm of big bands.

Older generations sometimes frowned upon the flashy, intimate dance styles, but that only made them more appealing to rebellious youth. Some things never change!

10

Stamp collecting

Image: Tolga deniz Aran

Philately is the collection of stamps or the study of them, and it became a fad across the United States during the 1920s and the ‘30s. Why? Here is the reason.

Stamps offered people a way to explore history, geography, and art. They were everyday items, easy to access, and nobody could escape them. For example, President Franklin D. Roosevelt was an avid stamp collector. Not that he needed them to learn about history or art—it was just a way to have fun.

Contrary to other trends we have discussed, schools encouraged this hobby, because it was both educational and enjoyable. Collecting stuff is a never-ending trend; there are all kinds of collections today and stamp collections today are almost invaluable!

1

Georgia: No eating fried chicken with utensils

Image: Shourav Sheikh

In Gainesville, Georgia, it’s i llegal to eat fried chicken with a fork . This law, passed in 1961, was meant as a publicity stunt to promote the city’s status as the "poultry capital of the world."

While no one’s actually getting arrested for improper chicken consumption, a tourist was once jokingly "arrested" for breaking this law in 2009. If you visit Gainesville, just remember, fingers only!

2

Alabama: No stink bombs or confetti

Image: Damiano Lingauri

If you love a good prank or enjoy tossing confetti at celebrations, Mobile, Alabama, is not the place for you. The city has made it illegal to possess or use stink bombs , "funk balls," and anything designed to create unpleasant odors.

That’s not all, confetti and spray string are also outlawed, so don’t plan any glittery parades. Mobile prefers its air fresh and its sidewalks clean. We cannot blame them!

3

Arizona: No spitting in public

Image: Pete F

In Goodyear, Arizona, it’s not just bad manners to spit in public, it’s illegal. The law specifically bans spitting on sidewalks, roads, parks, and public buildings, and if you’re caught doing it, you could face a $2,500 fine or even six months in jail.

So, if you have a bad habit of spitting on the sidewalk , you might want to think twice before visiting Goodyear. Besides, it’s just gross!

4

Louisiana: No crawfish theft

Image: Rasmus Gundorff Sæderup

Think stealing crawfish is a minor offense? Not in Louisiana! Swiping someone’s crawfish , especially if the value exceeds $1,500, is taken so seriously that it can lead to a $3,000 fine or up to ten years in prison.

So, next time you’re enjoying a seafood boil in the Bayou State, make sure you’re not swiping from someone else’s plate!

5

Massachusetts: No dancing to the National Anthem

Image: Jeffrey F Lin

Patriotism is important, but nobody gets it like Massachusetts! In this state, a 1917 law makes it illegal to dance to the national anthem , though enforcing it would likely be a First Amendment nightmare.

It’s unclear why lawmakers felt the need to crack down on patriotic grooves, but to be safe, keep your hand over your heart and save the dancing for later!

6

South Carolina: No working (or dancing!) on Sundays

Image: Jess Bailey

Did you know that in South Carolina, you may technically have an excuse to skip work on Sundays?

An old law still on the books prohibits working on Sundays , though it’s rarely enforced. Strangely enough, dancing is also banned on Sundays. If you were hoping for a weekend filled with productivity and footloose fun, you might have to sit this one out!

7

North Dakota: No late-night fireworks

Image: Ray Hennessy

In Devil’s Lake, North Dakota, you can buy fireworks between December 26th and January 1st, but you can’t set them off after 11 p.m. What?

Let us explain: This law was originally passed for the millennium celebrations in 1999, but it’s still on the books today. Are you planning to ring in the New Year with a bang? Make sure you light those fireworks early or risk breaking the law!

8

Montana: No "folf" allowed

Image: Oskar Kadaksoo

Montana’s wide-open spaces might seem perfect for throwing a Frisbee, but in Helena, playing Frisbee golf (also known as "folf") outside of designated areas is illegal.

If you get caught, you could face a $500 fine or even six months in jail. Where are all these weird laws coming from, anyway?

9

Indiana: Black cats must wear bells on Friday the 13th

Image: Andreea Popa

Are you superstitious? You’ll love this one. In French Lick Springs, located in Indiana, black cats must wear bells around their necks on Friday the 13th.

This law was introduced in 1939 as a "war measure" to reduce stress among the public. While it’s unlikely anyone enforces this rule today, it’s still an amusing nod to old-school superstitions!

10

Hawaii: No billboards allowed

Image: Dennis Maliepaard

Ever notice that Hawaii’s landscapes are free of massive billboards ? That’s because billboards are banned statewide! The law, dating back to 1927, is part of an effort to preserve the state’s natural beauty.

Hawaii is one of the few places in the US where advertisements don’t compete with breathtaking ocean views. Now, that’s a law we can all enjoy!

1

Massachusetts - Apple pie with a twist

Image: Priscilla Du Preez 🇨🇦

Apple pie is the nation’s pie—it’s the classic dessert served on the 4th of July, so it doesn’t belong to any particular state. However, Massachusetts thought the classic recipe could do with a twist and they went all the way: Apple pie with a cheddar crust .

This may sound unusual, but it’s actually quite a popular recipe in the Bay State. Some choose to fill the pie with the cheese, while others prefer to lay some slices on top and bake it until a crust forms. In any case, this one is only for those who keep their minds and palates open to new experiences. Are you one of them?

2

Kentucky - Bourbon Chocolate Pecan pie

Image: nikohoshi

In Kentucky, bourbon flows as freely as hospitality, and it’s no surprise that the state’s beloved Bourbon Chocolate Pecan Pie is a crowd favorite—especially on Derby Day. This dessert combines crunchy pecans, smooth chocolate, and a splash of Kentucky bourbon for a sweet, boozy finish.

Now, here’s the thing with this one: You can’t call it a Derby Pie unless you are Kern’s Kitchen. Why not? Because they own the trademark. But that didn’t stop the locals—they came up with creative alternatives like "Not Derby Pie" or "Derby Dessert."

To make it yourself, try mixing a bit of melted butter with your chocolate for an extra velvety texture. Just don’t forget to sip a little bourbon on the side while you’re baking—it’s only fitting!

3

New Jersey - Green tomato pie

Image: Sophie Dale

New Jersey’s Green Tomato Pie might sound odd to some, but locals know it’s a delicious treat . Made from either ripe green tomatoes (which often have lovely stripes) or unripe red ones, this pie has a flavor that is surprisingly similar to apples. The tomatoes soften as they cook, and they blend beautifully with the cinnamon and the sugar. The result? A refreshing, unique filling.

If you’re giving it a go at home, make sure to use the ripest green tomatoes you can find—they add a more vibrant flavor to each bite.

4

Pennsylvania - Shoofly pie

Image: Kenneth Schipper

Pennsylvania’s Shoofly Pie is one of those old-time desserts that never goes out of style. Based on molasses, the pie comes in two styles: a dry-bottom version that’s more like a cake, or a wet-bottom version with a gooey custard layer.

But what about the name? Traditionally, it’s believed that the name came from the flies that bakers had to "shoo" away while the pie cooled. However, some say it's named after Shoofly the Boxing Mule, a celebrity from the 19th century.

Either way, this pie is a taste of Pennsylvania's Dutch heritage. If you’re up for a baking challenge, aim for the wet-bottom style—its sticky, rich filling is worth the extra effort. Just be ready to shoo some flies away!

5

Georgia - Peanut pie

Image: Isaac Quesada

Were you expecting to see a peach-based pie in this section? Not today, sir! Though Georgia is often called the Peach State, its real star crop is peanuts. Thousands of peanut farmers call Georgia home, including one very famous name. Do you know it? Jimmy Carter, the peanut-farming president!

Peanut Pie might not be as well-known as peanut butter, but it’s just as flavorful and rich. This Southern staple blends sweet, salty, and nutty goodness in every bite. Serve it with whipped cream, and you’ve got a crowd-pleaser that’s simple to make and even easier to enjoy.

Now, in case you were wondering, Carter wasn’t the only one: Thomas Jefferson was also a fan of peanuts! With a history like that, you know this pie is something worth trying.

6

Vermont - Maple pie

Image: Mary West

This one lives up to our expectations: Vermont’s connection with maple syrup is legendary, and Maple Pie is the sweet—and logical—result. As the nation’s leader in maple syrup production, Vermont has turned this delicious treat into a delicious pie.

In the 1860s, maple sugar was cheaper than cane sugar , making it the go-to sweetener, and today, it still holds that place of honor. Maple Pie is rich, buttery, and perfectly sweet… So, Vermont in a nutshell.

Are you giving this pie a go? Use a deep-flavored maple for an intense result!

7

Alaska - Blueberry Rhubarb pie

Image: Erol Ahmed

We may all know Alaska for its rugged wilderness, but it’s also home to some fantastic pie ingredients, like blueberries and rhubarb. These two grow in abundance, especially thanks to Alaska’s long summer days. And did you know? Back in the early 1900s, Henry Clark, who was nicknamed "The Rhubarb King," helped feed Gold Rush workers with fresh rhubarb.

You can use any kind of berry in this pie, but wild Alaskan blueberries are especially tasty! Add a dollop of vanilla ice cream on top, and you’ve got a true Alaskan treat. It’s tart, sweet, and perfect for any adventure. Just be sure to gather your berries before the bears do!

8

Colorado - Rocky road pie

Image: Dagmara Dombrovska

When you think of Colorado, the mighty Rocky Mountains are the first thing to come to mind, right? What better way to honor them than with a Rocky Road Pie? Done and done, thanks to the locals.

This pie brings together chocolate, marshmallows, and nuts, just like the famous ice cream flavor. Now, here is a fun fact: legend says the original Rocky Road ice cream was made by cutting marshmallows with sewing scissors!

We can’t really confirm whether that’s true or not, but you can’t deny the charm of the story. The pie version is just as rich and satisfying, with layers of melted chocolate and fluffy marshmallows. If you’re a fan of sweet and crunchy, this one’s for you.

9

Maryland - White potato pie

Image: Josephine Amalie Paysen

Most people think of sweet potatoes when they hear "potato pie," and that makes sense, but in Maryland, it’s all about the white potato .

This pie has been a local favorite for over 150 years, and early recipes date back to nothing less than the 1850s! Baked in a buttery crust, this pie is sweet and custard-like, with just a hint of cinnamon. It’s a bit like pumpkin pie’s lighter cousin.

Don’t be surprised if it becomes your new holiday go-to! Marylanders have been enjoying it for generations, and it’s easy to see why. Serve warm or cold—it’s the perfect ending to any meal.

10

Ohio - Buckeye pie

Image: Tanya Semenchuk

And we come to the end with Ohio’s signature pie: Buckeye pie take center stage , please! This delicious pie, along with its name, is inspired by the famous buckeye candy that mimics the state tree’s nut.

Though the real buckeye nut is toxic, you can eat this version without any worries. The pie is pure indulgence, layered with chocolate and peanut butter. The combination of creamy peanut butter filling and rich chocolate is hard to resist, and it looks just as good as it tastes. Simply mouthwatering!