In Arizona, the sun is more than a celestial body; it is a way of life. Whether you’re a native or a newbie, something about this state gets under your skin, and not in a bad way. If you’ve ever wondered what distinguishes Arizona, here are ten things that only locals truly grasp.
You don’t “sweat”—you “glow”
In Arizona, we don’t sweat; we simply glow. When you step outside in the summer heat, you’ll instantly start shimmering like a human disco ball. And believe us, when it’s 110 degrees, you’re not sweating; you’re simply “embracing the desert.”
You can drive for hours and still be in the same state
Arizona is massive. You could drive for hours and still not cross its bounds. From the desert to the mountains, the variety of sceneries will leave you wondering how one state can contain so much real estate.
Cacti are basically family
Don’t be startled when someone refers to cactus as if they were people. Arizona’s famous saguaro cactus are virtually neighbors. They are tall, proud, and serve as natural landmarks; when it rains, they “hug” you with their splendor.
Monsoon season isn’t just about rain—it’s an event
When monsoon season arrives, it’s like the entire state throws a celebration. The heavens darken, the winds pick up, and then—bam—the sky opens up like a cascade. It’s more than simply the weather; it’s a spectacle, an excuse to pull over and enjoy the show.
“Dry heat” is a real thing, and yes, it’s different
Outsiders chuckle at the idea of dry heat, but Arizonans understand the hardship. Sure, 100-degree temperatures sounds horrible, but the dry heat makes it practically bearable. It’s similar to being cooked in an oven, but in a more comfortable setting.
You can tell if someone’s from here by their car’s A/C
If you live in Arizona, your car’s air conditioning is likely to be colder than your refrigerator. It is the ultimate survival gear. Outsiders may get into your car and mistake it for the grocery store’s freezer area, but it’s all part of the daily grind.
“Haboob” isn’t a joke—it’s a sandstorm
Arizona has its own sort of meteorological drama, known as a haboob. This massive dust storm rolls in faster than you can say “I forgot my sunglasses,” and you find yourself driving through an orange fog that feels like the end of the world.
The sunset will stop you in your tracks every time
You haven’t truly seen a sunset until you’ve witnessed one in Arizona. The sky becomes a gorgeous blend of oranges, purples, and reds, and you’ll want to pull over simply to take it all in. The desert puts on the best performance at the conclusion of each day.
The word “cold” is relative
Any temperature below 50 degrees Fahrenheit is considered a “cold front” in Arizona. When winter arrives, we put on our winter jackets, scarves, and boots and have a social gathering merely to talk about the weather. Visitors from colder climates are perplexed as they sip hot cocoa wearing a sweater.
If you haven’t been to the Grand Canyon, are you even an Arizonan?
It is the state’s crown jewel, and if you live in Arizona and haven’t seen the Grand Canyon, you’re probably not living your best life. It’s almost like a rite of passage, a location where even the most hardened desert inhabitants can’t help but be amazed.
Arizona is more than just a state; it represents a way of life. There is no place like it, from the saguaro-lined vistas to the sweltering summers and never-ending sunsets. So, if you ever find yourself here, remember to remain hydrated, keep an eye on the cacti, and always bring your sunglasses—it’s all part of the experience!