What comes to mind when you think of New York? For a lot of people, it is the bright lights of Times Square, honking horns, and a hustle and bustle energy. But what many people don’t consider are the multitude of traditions that are deeply rooted in this great state. New York has a long history of tradition and culture that makes it a favorite to many.
We will explore the different traditional areas of New York that continue to make the state unique: Cuisine
Food has always been a large part of the New York culture. Even during colonial times, the state has favored unique and flavorful recipes that have become highly recognizable. A perfect example of this is New York style pizza, which is shaped into a round pie with a thin, flexible crust, lots of cheese and tomato sauce, and light amounts of topping. This is a classic dish that was first served in the city in the early 1900s, and has become an iconic New York food. Similarly, the New York cheesecake has become popular all around the country, with its light, airy texture and creamy flavor, which sets it apart from other cheesecakes.
Another noteworthy menu item is the very New York egg cream – a mixture of chocolate syrup, cream, and seltzer that is served cold. Initially developed to recreate the taste of chocolate milk, this drink has become a staple in Sweet Shops, Candy Shops, and on street corners all over the city. Aside from these classics, the New York bagel is also an iconic favorite, with its thick and chewy crust, and perfect crunch.
Architecture
One of the most popular aspects of New York is its unique architecture. From the popular Art Deco style of the Empire State Building, to the neo-gothic style of the Woolworth Building, New York is filled with iconic buildings and skylines. Skyscrapers also dominate the city, with most of them reaching to dizzying heights of more than 1,000 feet.
The state is also home to some of America’s oldest structures, such as Central Park’s Belvedere Castle, and the Bronx Zoo, the world’s oldest and largest metropolitan zoo. The city’s bridges are also a unique feat of engineering. From the classic Brooklyn Bridge to the modern Robert F. Kennedy Bridge, these dazzling structures continue to stand the test of time.
Sports
Sports are a major part of New York culture, and the state is even home to the first team in professional sports in the US, the New York Knickerbockers. This historic basketball team helped shape the rules of the game, and are still popular among fans today. The state is also home to some of America’s most beloved baseball teams, like the New York Yankees, who have been dominating the American League since 1903.
Aside from baseball and basketball, New York also has a lot of other sports teams. The New York Rangers at the NHL, and the New York Giants at the NFL all make their reliable appearances throughout the year, and have solidified their own fan base for years. Hockey fans have also flocked to the Madison Square Garden to watch the New York Islanders, who relocated in 1972 and have since become one of the biggest hockey teams in the state.
Traditions
New York is home to a unique set of traditional activities as well. Events like the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, and the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting, have become part of the traditional New York way of life. Similarly, the Annual New York City Marathon is another event that has become a tradition, with thousands of people running the streets of New York every year in honor of the city.
New York’s Coney Island is also known for its traditional attractions, like the Cyclone roller coaster, which first opened to the public in 1927 and is still thrilling tourists today. These attractions, as well as its iconic hot dog stands, bring in millions of visitors each year.
Though times continue to change and evolve, the traditions of New York remain the same. From its classic cuisine to its iconic architecture, sports teams, and special events, New York is filled with traditions truly worthy of the Empire State. Not only are these traditions a part of New York culture, but they also make the state unique and help to set it apart from other cities around the world.
