20 Super Bowl Traditions from Around the U.S. That You Didn't Know About
Deep dive into unique Super Bowl traditions across the country, from quirky food customs to legendary game-day rituals.
- Daisy Montero
- 6 min read
A Super Bowl tradition is any ritual, custom, or celebration that fans follow on game day. Across the U.S., people take these traditions to the next level with unique tailgates, massive feasts, and even quirky superstitions. Some cities have their own special ways of celebrating, while others stick to time-honored game-day routines. Here are some of the most unexpected and entertaining Super Bowl traditions from around the country.
1. Tailgating Like a Pro
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Some fans take tailgating to the next level with full BBQ spreads, custom team gear, and even heated tents. Whether it’s a stadium parking lot or a backyard setup, these pre-game feasts are as serious as the game itself.
2. The “Lucky” Game Day Outfit
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Many die-hard fans swear by wearing a lucky jersey, socks, or even underwear “guarantees” a win. Some refuse to wash their game-day attire all season, believing it holds the magic.
3. Superstitious Snack Choices
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Some fans won’t dare change their Super Bowl snack lineup, convinced that eating the same wings or dip every year brings good luck. Mess with the menu, and you might jinx the team.
4. Watching the Game in Complete Silence
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Some fans take their Super Bowl watching so seriously that they ban all talking during the game. Only commercials and halftime get a pass for conversation.
5. Themed Super Bowl Party Menus
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Some hosts go all out with food based on the teams playing, serving Philly cheesesteaks for an Eagles game or Kansas City BBQ for a Chiefs matchup.
6. High-Stakes Super Bowl Squares
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Super Bowl Squares isn’t just a casual office pool; some take it seriously, with big money on the line. It turns every quarter into a thrilling event.
7. The Commercial Watch Party
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Some fans stick to regular Super Bowl parties, but others get creative with themed events. Whether it is dressing up in vintage jerseys or hosting a cook-off, people love adding their own twist. These unique celebrations make game day even more exciting.
8. The National Anthem Bet
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One of the funniest Super Bowl traditions is predicting how long the national anthem will last. Fans place bets on whether the singer will hold the final note or stick to the usual timing. It is a fun way to start the game before the first play even happens.
9. The Gatorade Shower Guessing Game
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Before the final whistle, fans start guessing the color of the Gatorade that will be dumped on the winning coach. Some look at past trends, while others just pick their favorite color. It is a small but fun tradition that keeps people engaged until the very end.
10. Wing Orders That Break Records
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Super Bowl Sunday is the biggest day of the year for chicken wings. Restaurants and delivery services prepare for millions of orders as fans load up on their favorite game day snack. No Super Bowl party feels complete without a big plate of chicken wings.
11. Super Bowl Squares Frenzy
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Super Bowl squares is one of the easiest and most popular party games. Friends and coworkers fill out grids, hoping their numbers match the score at the end of each quarter. Even people who do not follow football love the excitement of winning.
12. Puppy Bowl Madness
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Some people skip the Super Bowl and watch the Puppy Bowl instead. Rescue puppies “compete” in a fun and playful version of the game while fans cheer them on. It is the perfect alternative for animal lovers and non-sports fans.
13. Last-Minute Jersey Shopping
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Stores get packed with fans looking for jerseys right before the big game. Whether their team made it to the Super Bowl or they just want to represent their favorite player, demand always skyrockets. Many stores even sell out of popular jerseys before kickoff.
14. The Tradition of Watching with Family and Friends
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The Super Bowl is one of the biggest gatherings of the year for families and friends. Some people host big parties, while others keep it small with close loved ones. No matter how it is celebrated, the game is always better when shared.
15. The Coin Toss Prediction
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Some fans take the opening coin toss more seriously than the actual game. People place bets on whether it will land on heads or tails, turning a simple flip into a high-stakes moment. It is a fun way to kick off the night with a little extra excitement.
16. Super Bowl Parades and Celebrations
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The winning team’s city throws a massive parade that brings thousands of fans into the streets. Players ride on floats, toss footballs to the crowd, and celebrate their championship win. It is one of the most exciting traditions for die-hard supporters.
17. Watching the Game at a Sports Bar
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Not everyone watches the Super Bowl at home. Many fans prefer the electric atmosphere of a packed sports bar with big screens, loud cheers, and plenty of food and drinks. Some bars even host contests and giveaways to make the night even more special.
18. Dressing Up in Team Colors
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Super Bowl Sunday is an unofficial dress-up day for football fans. People wear jerseys, face paint, and even custom outfits to support their team. Some take it further with themed accessories, wigs, and crazy costumes.
19. The Post-Game Analysis Tradition
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As soon as the game ends, fans start breaking down every play. Sports analysis, social media, and group chats explode with discussions about key moments, questionable calls, and standout performances. The Super Bowl might be over, but the conversation lasts for days.
20. The Monday After the Super Bowl
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Super Bowl Sunday is fun, but Monday morning can be rough. Many people call in sick, show up late, or just struggle through the day after a night of food, drinks, and excitement. Some have even suggested making the Monday after the Super Bowl a national holiday.