5 Little Known Things About Alabama

Alabama may be home to some of the more significant American Civil Rights Movement landmarks, but there’s more to the Yellowhammer State than the Rosa Parks Museum or its city capital of Montgomery. Located in the southeastern region of the U.S.; Alabama borders Florida, Georgia, Mississippi, and Tennessee. In school we are typically only taught the historical facts about the Cotton State, but here are 5 interesting things about Alabama you may not realize.

1. It Has Some Crazy Laws

Hope it doesn’t kill your Alabama travel plans, but it is illegal to operate a vehicle while wearing a blindfold, to wear a fake mustache in church that causes laughter, as well as engaging in bear wrestling. 

2. Home of the Original Mardi Gras 

When you think about Mardi Gras, most likely the first thing you think about is Louisiana. However, the city of Mobile, Alabama was the first location to ever hold an organized Mardi Gras celebration.

3. The State Knows Where It’s Unclaimed Baggage Is

Although Alabama may not be able to tell you where your missing socks are, they can tell you what happens to any unclaimed baggage. The state has an Unclaimed Baggage Center located in Scottsboro, Alabama, where it resells unclaimed baggage items from airlines. 

4. Crazy Town Names

If you’re looking to get a few fun photo opportunities in places you never knew existed; make sure to check out Chigger Hill, Scratch Ankle, and Smuteye. 

5. Who Needs an Apple?

While many people watch the ball drop from the New Year’s celebration from Time Squares, the state of Alabama has its own tradition.  The New Year is brought in by dropping a giant 12 foot mechanical moon pie, weighing in at a whopping 600 pounds.