Growing Up American: 12 Quirky Customs That Feel Completely Normal Until You Step Outside the USA

Every country has its unique customs and traditions that might baffle outsiders. As an American, you might find yourself living with certain quirks that seem normal to you but can raise eyebrows elsewhere. From celebrations that go way beyond birthdays to attitudes toward healthcare, here are twelve distinctly American practices that feel completely ordinary until you step outside the USA.

1. Celebrate Everything

In America, it seems there’s a reason to celebrate almost every month. From extravagant gender reveal parties that can cost over $2,000 to elaborate graduations from preschool, life’s milestones often receive grand celebrations. First birthdays are often marked with elaborate themes, decorations, and even hired entertainers.

While it’s joyful to acknowledge these moments, is it necessary to throw a party for every single step in life?

An elaborately decorated table for a gender reveal party.

2. Pharmacies That Sell Groceries

Walk into a pharmacy in the U.S., and you might be surprised to find aisles filled with everything from aspirin to snacks. It’s common for Americans to grab milk or bread alongside their prescriptions, which can astonish those from countries where pharmacies focus strictly on medications.

The convenience of a one-stop shop has its advantages, but does it compromise the essence of what a pharmacy should be?

3. Voting Before Drinking

In an intriguing twist, you can vote at 18 but can't legally order a drink until you're 21. This contradiction often sparks conversations about the priorities of society.

Why can young people play a critical role in shaping the nation but not enjoy a celebration with a drink afterward?

4. Tipping

For travelers, the tipping culture in the U.S. can be confusing. In restaurants, it’s customary to tip 15-20% of your bill, while some bars demand tips for just providing a drink.

This expectation can feel overwhelming, leaving visitors questioning why service charges aren’t included in menu prices. Wouldn’t it simplify things for everyone?

5. Obsessive Patriotism

Every Fourth of July, Americans celebrate with fervor. Parades, fireworks, and family barbecues showcase national pride, and it’s common to see flags displayed year-round, especially during sporting events.

In some countries, public displays of patriotism are more subdued. Is there a balance between national pride and a healthy appreciation of one’s country?

A crowd enjoying a Fourth of July fireworks display.

6. Peanut Butter as a Staple

To Americans, peanut butter isn’t just a spread; it’s a culinary cornerstone. You’ll find it in sandwiches, desserts, and various savory dishes. The debate over creamy versus chunky can ignite passionate discussions among families.

For those from nations where nuts are less central to the diet, this obsession might appear puzzling. How did peanut butter become such a beloved fixture in American cuisine?

7. Overwork

In the U.S., taking a vacation or a sick day often feels like weakness. The culture of overwork leads many to work long hours, sometimes sacrificing their well-being.

While Americans often wear their workaholism as a badge of honor, this mindset can lead to alarming levels of burnout. Why have we allowed our jobs to define our identity?

8. Casual Gun Ownership

For many Americans, owning a firearm is as common as owning a car. Gun culture is woven into daily life, often justified by arguments surrounding hunting and self-defense.

Some visitors from countries with strict gun laws find it bewildering that gun ownership is so normalized. How did the U.S. come to view firearms as a regular part of life?

9. Medical Ads on TV

Turn on the TV and you'll be inundated with pharmaceutical advertisements. In the U.S., it's typical to hear about medications that promise to treat a wide range of conditions while watching your favorite programs.

This practice contrasts sharply with many other nations where such advertising is limited. Should medications really be marketed directly to the public?

10. Going Bankrupt Due to Healthcare

In America, healthcare costs can be exorbitant. Disturbingly, it's estimated that over 530,000 Americans file for bankruptcy each year due to medical bills. This stark reality surprises many international visitors, especially those from countries with universal healthcare.

Isn't healthcare a fundamental human right that should not lead to financial ruin?

11. Taking Newborns to Daycare

Many American parents return to work just weeks after giving birth, often sending their babies to daycare at just a few weeks old. Concerns about career and financial stability drive this decision, raising questions about how it impacts young children.

Is this practice prioritizing work over the well-being of infants?

12. Knowing Your College Before High School Graduation

In the U.S., high school seniors often decide their college long before graduation. By the time they finish high school, many students are expected to have picked their institutions.

This pressure can limit exploration, leaving little room for change. How can we balance ambition with the need for personal growth during these formative years?

Understanding Cultural Differences

Growing up American means being surrounded by these unique customs that simply feel like part of life. While living in the U.S. has countless advantages, it brings forth challenges and norms that can seem strange abroad.

Next time you find yourself in another country, keep in mind: what may feel normal to you could be a source of curiosity for others. Open conversations about these differences can be enlightening and help build connections. Embrace those quirks; they might just lead to meaningful exchanges!