1

Keep Austin weird (Austin, Texas)

Image: MJ Tangonan

We’ll begin with one of the most distinctive unofficial mottos out there. In the year 2000, an Austin resident named Red Wassenich called a radio show and made a pledge encouraging fellow citizens to " Keep Austin Weird ." The phrase resonated with him, and he soon began printing bumper stickers and shirts. It was quickly embraced by other Austinites, eventually evolving into the unofficial motto still seen all over the Texas capital.

2

Al-Ki (Washington)

Image: Toan Chu

The only American state that has a fully unofficial state motto. " Al-Ki " (also written as "Alki") is a word from Chinook Jargon that translates to "by and by," though it’s sometimes interpreted as " hope for the future ." Whichever translation you prefer, both express a beautiful sentiment—one that reflects not only the optimism of early 19th-century settlers but also the warm, forward-looking spirit of the people of Washington State.

3

Land of Lincoln (Illinois)

Image: Joel Mott

Illinois takes great pride in being the home state of our 16th president—and with good reason. Who wouldn’t be proud of " The Great Emancipator "? Interestingly, Lincoln wasn’t born in Illinois; he was born in a log cabin in Kentucky and spent much of his childhood in Indiana. However, Illinois was definitely Lincoln’s home : it was in the "Prairie State" that he made a name for himself as a lawyer and met his future wife.

4

Sportsman’s Paradise (Louisiana)

Image: Fitsum Admasu

If you’ve ever visited the great state of Louisiana, you’ve probably noticed the many outdoor opportunities it offers, including abundant hunting, fishing, and trapping spots. While Louisiana’s official motto is "Union, Justice, and Confidence," many know the Pelican State by another moniker: "Sportsman’s Paradise."

5

Smiling faces, beautiful places (South Carolina)

Image: Jacqueline Munguía

One of the most memorable aspects of visiting the American South is experiencing its famous " Southern hospitality ." People from the South take pride in their warmth, kindness, and the instinctive way they welcome visitors. In that spirit, South Carolina’s unofficial motto perfectly reflects these values . After all, if you ever visit this great state, be prepared to be greeted by the two things it’s best known for: "Smiling Faces, Beautiful Places."

6

Taxation without representation (Washington, D.C.)

Image: Louis Velazquez

Most license plate mottos praise the state or city they represent. However, since 2000, Washington, D.C. has famously used a slogan that protests its unique political situation. For over 20 years, D.C. license plates have featured a variation of the phrase "Taxation Without Representation"—a quote that highlights the fact that D.C. residents must pay federal taxes without having voting representation in Congress.

7

Wild, wonderful (West Virginia)

Image: Sharosh Rajasekher

There’s nothing like a good alliteration to lift your spirits. West Virginia is known worldwide for its beauty—a living reminder that good things come in small packages . What the state lacks in size, it makes up for with its stunning scenery. In that spirit, we’d like to celebrate whoever coined West Virginia’s most famous unofficial motto: "Wild, Wonderful." It’s short, simple, and perfectly captures the essence of this remarkable state.

8

America’s Dairyland (Wisconsin)

Image: Brian Suman

Wisconsin is known around the world for the exceptional quality of its dairy products, and Wisconsinites take great pride in that fact. Don’t believe it? Just look at the fans of the Green Bay Packers, who often wear iconic "cheesehead" hats shaped like wedges of cheese, proudly celebrating their state’s most famous export. While the official state motto is the single word "Forward," many prefer Wisconsin’s unofficial title: "America’s Dairyland," a nickname that appears frequently across the state.

9

Life Elevated (Utah)

Image: Taylor Brandon

In 2006, Utah’s Department of Tourism introduced a new slogan to promote tourism and inspire residents to take pride in their beautiful state. The slogan, "Life Elevated," was featured on tourism signs and license plates throughout "The Beehive State." When you think about it, the slogan is quite clever, especially considering it indirectly references one of Utah’s most beloved natural wonders: Arches National Park.

10

Old Dominion (Virginia)

Image: STEPHEN POORE

From "the Mother of Presidents" to "the Mother of States," Virginia boasts a collection of iconic nicknames . While "Old Dominion" may not be as self-explanatory as some other monikers, it’s no less impressive. The name originates from Virginia being the first overseas dominion of the English kings and queens .

1

Taxation without representation - District of Columbia

Image: Jen Theodore

The DMV in Washington, D.C., has featured "Taxation Without Representation" on the city's license plates since the late 1990s. This is because people living in D.C. don't have a voting representative in Congress , so, yes, they're taxed without representation.

The reason for this dates back to when the Founders of the country decided that the yet-to-be-built Federal City, located on the Potomac, would operate above and beyond any regional, state, or city politics, remaining completely neutral regarding the laws being created. Therefore, there is no representative in Congress.

2

The Last Frontier - Alaska

Image: Elijah Macleod

There is not much mystery as to why license plates in Alaska feature the nickname "The Last Frontier." Once, the frontier was the continental West. Once the West was won, Alaska became the last frontier.

Along with this nickname, the license plate also features a flag with stars, which represent the Big Dipper and Polaris (the North Star). They respectively symbolize strength and Alaska's northern location.

3

Constitution State - Connecticut

Image: Davlat Radjabov

While some people might think that the nickname showcased on the Connecticut license plates is about the document that laid the groundwork for American democracy, the truth is different.

"The Constitution State" in this case refers to a set of local government rules from around the year 1639, called the Fundamental Orders. Similar? Yes, but not the same.

4

The First State - Delaware

Image: Liam Matthews

"The First State," the nickname showcased on Delaware’s license plates, references a fact that the state is proud to boast— as it should: it was the first state to ratify the US Constitution before any other state on December 7, 1787.

The nickname wasn't official until a first-grade class made the suggestion in 2002. As it sometimes happens, kids get it before everybody else.

5

Land of Lincoln - Illinois

Image: Richard Hedrick

Another proud statement showcased on the state’s license plates is printed on every Illinois plate: "Land of Lincoln" refers to the fact that, even though he was born in Kentucky, Honest Abe lived in the state capital, Springfield, from 1837 to 1861.

The 1954 plates were the first to feature this nickname, which continues to be used today.

6

The Crossroads of America - Indiana

Image: Tracy Adams

The state of Indiana has numerous interstates crossing its borders, namely I-65, I-69, I-70, and I-74 , and the nickname on its license plate is a direct reference to this. Actually, as it happens in many instances, this nickname is the state’s motto, which became official in 1937.

The current plate design, which features one of the covered bridges the state is known for, is a little cartoonish but has more character.

7

Sportsman’s Paradise - Louisiana

Image: Tim Mossholder

Some states have had the clever idea of advertising and promoting their features on their license plates. Cars bearing these signs travel all over the country, making them a perfect advertising vessel.

Such is the case for Louisiana, which is a region abundant with spots to fish and hunt . Its license plate is inscribed with one of the state’s nicknames: "Sportsman’s Paradise."

8

Support Wildlife - Maine

Image: Ashes Sitoula

Another state that attracts visitors with its natural diversity and makes good use of its license plates to promote this is Maine, with its "Support Wildlife" plate. This slogan not only invites people to visit but also advocates for environmental protection. This double function is a great use of space and resources, and it should be copied by other states’ license plates.

9

The Spirit of America - Massachusetts

Image: Beng Ragon

If there is no space for the full motto, why not go with an abbreviation, right? At least that was the reasoning for the good people of Massachusetts. Along with a patriotic color scheme, Massachusetts's license plate features the slogan "The Spirit of America." The phrase is a shortened version of the state's former motto: "The Spirit of Massachusetts is the Spirit of America."

10

Unbridled Spirit - Kentucky

Image: Jen Theodore

The last entry on our list goes to Kentucky and its poetic motto proudly showcased on its license plates. According to local authorities, " Kentucky is a place where spirits are free to soar and big dreams can be fulfilled . We relish competition and cherish our champions for their willingness to push beyond conventional boundaries to reach new heights of success."

In any case, this beautiful statement adorns the license plates of many Kentuckians.

1

Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta

Image: Rory McLaughlin

This festival is a visual feast. If a single hot air balloon in the sky attracts a lot of attention, imagine hundreds of them flying at the same time!

In the 1970s, a group of hot air balloon fans got together in Albuquerque, New Mexico , and decided to honor their passion by creating this festival, which was held for the first time in 1972. In that inaugural year, there were just over 10 balloons, a big difference from the hundreds and hundreds you can see at the festival today.

The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta is held annually in early October and lasts for nine days! If you want to go, start planning your visit, as around 800,000 visitors attend the event every year.

2

Coachella

Image: Eric Ward

This is the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival, better known as just Coachella.

With the goal of bringing together artists from different genres, Paul Tollett and Rick Van Santen launched the festival in 1999 . Set against the backdrop of the Coachella Valley in the Colorado Desert, the music and dancing create a unique experience.

Although it didn't take place in 2000, Coachella became an annual event starting in 2001 and has grown ever since. Considered one of the largest and most popular music festivals in the world, it attracts around 250,000 people every year.

If you want to enjoy several days of music against a beautiful landscape, you have to attend Coachella. But wait—if you decide to go, don't forget to plan your outfit carefully!

3

Mardi Gras

Image: Carol Highsmith's America

It was the French who brought this tradition to America in the late 17th century. The first American Mardi Gras took place in 1703 in Mobile, Alabama. However, the city of New Orleans, Louisiana, made the celebration famous.

Held annually during the last day of Carnival—that is, the day before Ash Wednesday—Mardi Gras displays its renowned parade full of masks and costumes attracting over a million visitors every year! The celebration is so important that it was declared a legal holiday in Louisiana so everyone can attend.

If you want to experience this incredible festivity and taste some delicious King Cake, you must go to New Orleans for Mardi Gras!

4

South by Southwest (SXSW)

Image: Joey Thompson

Roland Swenson, Louis Black, and Nick Barbaro met in Austin, Texas, in 1987 with a shared idea. They felt that local bands and musicians deserved a chance to showcase their talents. And so South by Southwest was born. Today, the event has grown so much that it is now a massive festival that celebrates not just music but also movies!

SXSW is held in Austin every March, spanning around 10 days. If you are interested in tech, entertainment , and the media industry in general, you can't miss this festival, which attracts about 500,000 people!

5

New Orleans Jazz Festival

Image: JosephHershMedia

Mardi Gras is not the only massive festivity held in New Orleans . The city also hosts the spectacular New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, a major celebration of music and culture.

As the name implies, this festival celebrates jazz music and everyone who loves and plays it, along with other genres like blues,R&B, and gospel. It was founded by George Wein, a music promoter, and was first held in 1970.

This popular event, which includes music, dance, art, and food, takes place over two weeks each spring, between April and May, attracting an impressive 500,000 visitors every year.

6

The Aloha Festival

Image: Taylor Friehl

If you are looking for paradisiacal landscapes, the Aloha Festival is your destination. It takes place every year during September, and you've probably guessed where: in the beautiful state of Hawaii .

With the aim of celebrating and honoring Hawaiian culture, this festival was established in 1946 . Today, the festival spans about two weeks, during which visitors and locals come together to enjoy hula dancing, parades, contests, and art exhibits. It is also a great opportunity to discover delicious Hawaiian dishes .

If you haven't planned your vacation yet, September is the perfect time to visit Hawaii!

7

Chicago Air and Water Show

Image: Nicolas Radzimski

If you're still thinking about the Albuquerque hot air balloon show, we have another celebration that takes place in the sky : the incredible Chicago Air and Water Show.

This show emerged in 1959 as a way to showcase the capabilities and skills of military aircraft and offer an exciting spectacle for people in Chicago. Over the years, the event has become one of the most famous air and water shows.

It is usually held during the third weekend of August. If you want to see aerial tricks and performances—including incredible moves by the famous U.S. Navy Blue Angels and U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds—this festival is the show for you. Just be sure to plan your trip in advance, as it attracts an impressive 2 million spectators each year!

8

Comic-Con

Image: Kashawn Hernandez

Perhaps all you need to create a world-famous event is a group of enthusiastic people who share the same passion as you. Such was the case for the group of comic book fans who gathered in San Diego, California, and held the first Comic-Con in 1970 . Their goal was to celebrate everything from beloved comics and iconic characters to movies, TV series, video games, and pop culture.

Today, Comic-Con has spread around the world. The San Diego convention, in particular, remains one of the most prominent, with around 140,000 people each year.

Many attendees come dressed as their favorite heroes and characters, playing the roles and trading memorabilia with other fans. The event also attracts well-known actors, authors, cartoonists, directors, and animators, so you might meet one of them during your visit!

9

The Sundance Film Festival

Image: Myke Simon

This festival was born in 1978 as the Utah/US Film Festival in Salt Lake City, with the intention of showcasing independent American cinema. A few years later, it was moved to Park City, and it was renamed the Sundance Film Festival in 1985 after Robert Redford's character in the 1969 film Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid .

Today, it is a major festival that showcases various film categories and genres, gathering around 120,000 people each January. In addition, the event attracts talented directors, screenwriters, and actors.

If movies are your thing, you know where to run next January!

10

Burning Man

Image: Sasha Matveeva

In 1986, Larry Harvey and Jerry James gathered on Baker Beach in San Francisco, California, and built a large wooden effigy. They then decided to set it on fire , which led to the birth of the Burning Man Festival.

What started as a spontaneous act then grew into an annual event, attracting more and more people each year. The lack of space made that, in 1990, the event was moved to the Black Rock Desert in Nevada, where it is still held today.

Each year, around 70,000 people unite in the desert for 9 days between August and September, performing artistic expressions and exchanging products and gifts. The event culminates in the incredible burning of the effigy, also known as "The Man." If you enjoy adventure and don't mind "a bit" of fire, you must attend this festival!