The Top 10 Texan Traditions You Should Teach Your Kids

The Unwritten Rules Every Texan Knows (And We Should Teach Our Kids)

Recently, while having dinner with my wife and a couple of friends, our conversation took an interesting turn, what are the unspoken "rules" Texans live by that we may have forgotten to teach our kids? Naturally, my curiosity got the best of me, so I asked, "Exactly what rules are y'all talking about?"

Without hesitation, all three of them brought up the legendary Texas friendliness, especially when it comes to driving. They laughed about how, in Texas, when you turn on your signal to merge, there's a good chance someone will slow down and wave you in. It’s just what we do, courtesy on the road is an unspoken law. But surely, there’s more to being a true Texan than just good driving manners, right?

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The "Texas Ten" – The Unwritten Code of the Lone Star State

As we continued our conversation, I started thinking about the unwritten rules that make someone a true Texan, things we don’t always realize we’re teaching until we see a newcomer break them. These are the things we absorb from birth, the principles that set Texans apart.

1. Always hold the door open – Whether it’s for a man, woman, or child, in Texas, it’s just good manners to hold the door for the person behind you.
2. Wave when you pass someone on a country road – It might be a full-on hand wave or just a slight lift of a few fingers off the steering wheel, but it’s a friendly acknowledgment, a way of saying, "I see you, neighbor."
3. Respect your elders – “Yes, ma’am. No, sir.” This isn’t optional, it’s how we show respect in Texas.
4. BBQ is sacred – No, it’s not just grilled meat. True Texas barbecue is an art form, and if you put sauce on brisket before tasting it, well… bless your heart.
5. Dr Pepper is a way of life – Other states may drink soda or pop, but in Texas, it’s Dr Pepper, and it’s practically a state beverage.
6. Never underestimate Texas weather – It can be 40 degrees in the morning and 90 by noon, so always be prepared for Mother Nature’s mood swings.
7. Don't cut in line – Whether it's at the grocery store, a concert, or waiting for BBQ, Texans value patience and fairness.
8. Be neighborly – Need a cup of sugar? Need help moving? Need to borrow a trailer? In Texas, neighbors help neighbors, no questions asked.
9. Tex-Mex is a food group – Chips and salsa aren’t just appetizers, they’re a way of life.
10. Don’t mess with Texas – More than just an anti-littering campaign, this is a mindset. We take pride in our state, our land, and our communities.

Keeping Texas Traditions Alive

One thing we didn’t discuss at dinner, but I think deserves a place on this list, is the importance of teaching these traditions to the next generation. Respecting elders, being polite, and showing kindness aren’t just Texan values, they're good life lessons for anyone, anywhere.

So, if you're new to Texas, raising kids here, or trying to teach your grandkids how to be a true Texan, start with these simple, unwritten rules. They’ll blend right in and feel at home in no time. And if you can think of more Texas traditions we need to pass down, I’d love to hear them.