If you have ever lived in a small town, you know that they have distinct attributes. These include the way people interact with one another and traditions held by community members. There’s a reason why Nebraska is known as "the good life," and the following qualities are certain to remind you of aspects of the town you call home.
1. Everybody knows everybody.
Almost everyone knows each other on a first-name basis. Due to similar routines held by community members, you’re sure to see someone you know no matter where you go. Whether you’re getting your morning coffee or walking your dog, someone is there to greet you with a warm smile.
2. Life is laid-back.
With small town living, people are not in a rush to get from place to place. People take their time to say hello and give a helping hand when needed. You won’t hear honking behind tractors or see people rushing their daily errands. Life moves a little slower, but we wouldn’t want it any other way.
3. Athletics and school activities play a big part in the community.
In the school system, students have the opportunity to play sports no matter their skill level and are able to find other activities to participate in. No matter if you’re an athlete or an actor, you will find a team to be a part of. Teams bring students together through competition and provide them with life skills. Athletics and other activities form a social gathering for community members and always yield their support.
4. “The wave.”
If you’re driving your car almost anywhere in rural Nebraska, surely you have used or seen “the wave”. It’s basically a requirement even if you don’t know someone. This is a respectful tradition that isn’t going away anytime soon.
5. Agriculture is present everywhere.
From farmers talking about the rain at morning coffee, farm equipment moving through town, people selling vegetable produce at the farmers’ market on Saturday mornings, driving past the farmers cooperative and having crop fields surround every small town, you’re bound to see some aspect of agriculture in your daily commute.
6. Teachers are more connected with their students.
In a small town, teachers are more than an instructor in a classroom. They are parents, community members, coaches, referees, friends, family and more. They personally care about the success of their students and go above and beyond to provide the best education possible. To all of the teachers working in a small town, we cannot appreciate you enough.
7. Food is home-cooked.
From mom and pop diners to family owned bars, you will find quality-made soul food that will hit the spot. Cooks put their heart and soul into the food they serve because they know it’s for their family, friends and neighbors. It doesn’t get much better than that.
8. Fall Saturdays are reserved for Husker football.
Even if you don’t know much about football or it’s not your favorite sport, you somehow find yourself wearing red and watching Husker football every Saturday in the fall. When you root for the Huskers, you’re rooting for the state of Nebraska. Memorial Stadium brings fans together from across the state and the nation to provide an unforgettable experience.
9. Community celebrations are highlights of the year.
Street dances, fairs and heritage days. Enough said.
10. At the end of the day, we all support each other.
No matter who you are or what you do, the community is there to support you and lend a helping hand. Nebraskans take pride in this fact and are the kindest people you’ll ever meet. From people visiting family members or attending sports events, you will be welcomed with open arms and find a happy Nebraskan at every corner.
