Exploring Texas’ Unique Tradition Of Eating Pickles At The Movies

Texas is a gift that keeps on giving. It's a state filled with unique and, what some would call, downright odd traditions. One such tradition involves a snack at the movie theater that Texans supposedly love and adore. Do Texans eat pickles at the movie theater? Here's the answer.

The History Of Pickles At The Movie Theater In Texas

It is true. Texas has a long history of enjoying pickles at the movie theater. The earliest instance of pickles being mentioned as a snack at the movies was in 1954, in an article featured in the Dallas Morning News.

There is a lot of mystery surrounding exactly where the idea came from. Some point to the influence of German immigrants, while others say it's simply a "southern thing." No matter where it came from, in the Lone Star State, it's here to stay.

Are Pickles The Strangest Thing On The Menu At Texas Movie Theaters

If you've been to a theater recently and taken a look at the concessions menu, you might notice some things that have changed since you were younger. Growing up, I never thought I would see a full meal and a beer at the theater, but here we are.

Pickles, though, strike me as odd. It's interesting to me that a place that prides itself on being almost as quiet as a library would sell pickles to eat. PSA messages air before each movie telling you to turn off your phone and respect other patrons by not making a lot of noise.

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How can you quietly eat a pickle? They're a loud food. Pickles are extremely crunchy, and if someone in your row gets a juicy one, there's the slurping that comes with it. This is probably why some places refuse to sell pickles, which doesn't stop anyone from sneaking them in. I've actually gone to the theater with a person who snuck in pickles in Texas. It happens.

Texas has a long history of trying to maintain its individuality, and that even extends to the foods we eat at the theater.