1. Arizonans Know Winters Here Are Better Than Other Places’ Springs And Summers Combined
Let’s be clear: It snows in this state. Cacti can be covered in ice. But if you’re living in Southern Arizona, the desert weather is ideal in the winter. While your East Coast and Midwest buddies are freezing, you’re enjoying their idea of summertime. And let’s not forget those beautiful sunsets.
2. That Said, 70 Degrees Is Definitely Sweater Weather
To say that summer gets hot here is almost an understatement. It can reach triple-digit degrees in the morning, and outdoor pools can easily turn into scorching bathtubs.
That’s why it’s not strange to see Arizonans wearing sweaters when the weather dips toward 70 degrees—after all, it was 115 degrees for weeks, and they barely batted an eye.
3. The Stuff Other States Call “Mexican Food” Is A Pathetic Imitation
Authentic Mexican food is so easy to find here that you could almost take it for granted. Hole-in-the-wall finds, food trucks, and white tablecloth joints serve up the best tacos, tamales, burritos, and more that Arizonans can’t help but crave a go-to meal when you’re travelling.
4. Arizonans Have Mastered Driving What Are Essentially Ovens On Wheels
To people from Arizona, the following scenario should sound very familiar: Oh, no, your car has been in the sun again. Good thing you’re not wearing shorts on your leather seat. Better avoid that searing-hot belt buckle while you fasten it.
Shoot, you left your water bottle in here again…probably shouldn’t drink that unless you want to burn your tongue off. Just Crank the AC while you get your car out of the parking space—it’s too bad you couldn’t find a spot in the shade.
And, hey, you’re pretty good at driving with two fingers on that wheel of fire (if you don’t have an oven mitt).
5. There Are Sonoran Hot Dogs, Then There’s Sadness On A Bun
While these hot dogs can primarily be found in cities like Phoenix and Tucson, every Arizonan knows exactly what they are, and would like to have one right now.
A denser bun means that there’s more space to hold a mix of condiments like mayo, mustard, and jalapeno sauce on onions, bacon, pinto beans, and tomatoes. Just make sure to leave some space on the side for chile.
6. Every Arizonan Has Used This As A Comeback: “But It's A Dry Heat!”
Even though Arizonans barely spend any time outdoors during the day in the summer, they almost never leave home without sunglasses, the comfort of living in a steady heat wave is that it’s “dry.”
The lack of humidity is an often-cited tidbit that Arizonans like to share with their out-of-state friends when they say that Arizona’s heat would be too much for them to bare. If folks in Arizona want cooler weather anyway, they just drive to the mountains. So there!
7. Arizonans Don't Waste Their Time With Daylight Savings Time
What is this thing called “Daylight Savings Time?” Sounds like giant conspiracy to confuse people. This state doesn't take part in this, and Arizonans are happy about it.
8. The ASU vs. UA Rivalry Is Not To Be Taken Lightly
Folks in Arizona either root for the Sun Devils or the Wildcats, and you can’t root for both teams. This take-no-prisoners rivalry between Arizona and Arizona State stays strong throughout the year, thanks in part to the Territorial Cup—and to the intensity of the fans.
Just know your audience before you utter the words, “Bear down!” or “Fork ‘em!” Consider yourself warned.
9. The Grand Canyon Is Pretty Cool The First Few Times, You Suppose
Every Arizonan has visited the Grand Canyon on a field trip in grade school, or with their family on a road trip. They all know it’s beautiful, and they can totally see why people travel from all over to come here.
But, at the same time, they don’t visit the Grand Canyon that often. In fact, they may even to forget it’s in their backyard. Well, until out of town guests arrive.
10. “Haboob” Or “Dust Storm” Is A Legitimate Topic Of Debate
Every so often, a wall of sand descends upon a city here—probably the most famous one happened in Phoenix in 2011. This doesn't mean Arizonans stop driving, or that their necessarily scared. What it does mean is that some people will start calling this freak of nature a “haboob.”
You may be cool with this, or you may think, “It’s a dust storm. It’s always been called a dust storm. Don’t change it.” Either way, the name itself will keep you talking about this weather blip long after it passes.
Feature Image Source: Flickr user Dru Bloomfield - At Home in Scottsdale
Did we miss anything? Tell us what you think is unique about Arizona in the comments below! 
