17 Retro Fan Traditions That Don’t Happen Anymore
Revisit the unforgettable fan rituals from decades past that have vanished from today's stadiums and arenas.
- Chris Graciano
- 4 min read
Sports fandom used to come with its own unforgettable traditions. From throwing objects to bringing homemade signs and radios to games, these habits created a unique atmosphere. However, changing times, stricter rules, and evolving fan culture have pushed many of them into history.
1. Throwing Octopuses on the Ice
Ken Lund on Flickr
Detroit Red Wings fans once hurled octopuses onto the rink during playoffs as a bizarre good-luck charm. It symbolized the eight wins once needed to capture the Stanley Cup.
2. Transistor Radios in the Stands
Joe Haupt on Flickr
Before big screens and live updates, fans brought radios to follow commentary in real time. It was common during baseball games, especially for pitch-by-pitch insight.
3. Wave of Cigarette Smoke in the Crowd
Tulane Public Relations on Wikimedia Commons
Smoking was once allowed in the stands, creating a constant cloud above fans. It was part of the atmosphere, though far from pleasant. Health laws and clean air policies ended it for good.
4. Paper Airplanes from the Upper Deck
Kenny Eliason on Unsplash
Bored fans used to fold game programs into airplanes and launch them onto the field. It was harmless fun — until someone got hurt or a player was distracted.
5. Full-Stadium “The Wave”
Ken Lund on Wikimedia Commons
The wave once circled the stadium with synchronized excitement. It was a staple at football and baseball games alike. Nowadays, it’s met with eye-rolls more than enthusiasm.
6. Halftime or 7th-Inning Stretch Sing-Alongs
Choi2451 on Wikimedia Commons
Fans used to belt out tunes together — everything from “Sweet Caroline” to “Na Na Hey Hey.” Now, many venues stick to pre-recorded soundtracks. Some ballparks still keep the tradition alive, but it’s no longer universal.
7. Horned Helmets and Painted Faces
patheticpat on Flickr
Some fanbases were famous for over-the-top dress-up: Viking horns, full body paint, you name it. Security and comfort concerns have toned things down. Costume rules have become stricter.
8. Tossing Hats After a Hat Trick
Adam Fagen on Flickr
Fans once threw their hats onto the ice to celebrate a three-goal performance. It was messy but deeply meaningful. Now, many fans hold back due to expensive merchandise or arena policies.
9. Tailgating Without Tickets
Megan Coughlin on Flickr
Fans used to set up grills, crack beers, and party in the lot — even if they didn’t have game tickets. With rising ticket prices and tighter regulations, that free-spirited culture has dwindled.
10. Homemade Bed Sheet Banners
Unknown User on Pexels
Fans once brought massive hand-painted signs to games, often full of puns or love for a favorite player. Now, many venues ban large banners or limit signage entirely.
11. Booing the Anthem or Visiting Team During Lineups
Teresa Lomas on Wikimedia Commons
While always controversial, some fanbases loudly jeered opposing lineups or even national anthems. It was raw, emotional, and intense. Today’s fans are more reserved — or security removes disruptive fans quickly.
12. Fireworks After Touchdowns or Home Runs
GoArmy on Flickr
Many teams once celebrated big plays with pyrotechnics, even indoors. Fire codes and cost have made that a rare sight. Only major events get the fireworks treatment now.
13. Bleacher-Creatured Roll Calls
Nick Wang on Unsplash
In places like Yankee Stadium, fans in the cheap seats chanted each player’s name until they waved. It was a rowdy, player-fan interaction that built community. Security concerns and changing fan demographics have dulled that edge.
14. Passing Fans Overhead in the Crowd
Adam Kliczek on Wikimedia Commons
Crowd surfing wasn’t just for concerts — it once happened in rowdy sections of sporting events. But injuries and liability issues ended it fast. Stadium staff now intervene at the first sign.
15. Thunderous Cowbells or Homemade Noise Makers
Hector Alejandro on Flickr
Fans used to bring cowbells, clackers, or even pots and pans to amplify the atmosphere. Modern arenas ban most of these for safety and noise control.
16. Players Entering Through the Crowd
Lorie Shaull on Wikimedia Commons
Wrestlers and even some football players once made dramatic entrances through the crowd. It thrilled fans and felt personal. Today’s entrances are highly choreographed and controlled.
17. Stadium-Wide Polaroid Moments
Jakob Owens on Unsplash
Before camera phones, fans brought instant cameras to capture the magic. People snapped photos of the scoreboard, players, even each other mid-game. Now, high-def selfies and video dominate.