When I moved to Texas I noticed a few things: the people here are really nice, and they're really serious about their football and cheerleading. But what I didn't realize was how big a deal homecoming was. There are homecoming "proposals," parades, weeks where students dress in matching garb, and pep rallies that are hosted in full-size football fields so the entire town can attend.



Good ol' Texas tradition varies from school to school, but one really bizarre practice can be found in almost every Texas school across the country: MUMS.



Yes, you heard right, I said "mum." To the most people, this word references a small, resilient flower found in bouquets and flower arrangements, but in the great state of Texas the word takes on a whole new meaning. During homecoming week (and sometimes the entire month prior) students get busy making mums for the homecoming game and dance.



What is a mum you ask? Good question. The only way to truly explain this phenomenon is through photo proof.

A mum is something you wear to homecoming to show your pride, school spirit, and a little bit of creativity.

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If the homecoming dance is in your future, your date may even wear a matching mum creation called a garter. These are typically made by their moms, friends, or a professional mum-maker.

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Yes, I said professional mum-maker. Check out @homecomingmumamia and @texasmumstar on Instagram if you don't believe me!

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There are BIG mums.

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Teddy bear mums.

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LED light up mums.

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And just plain pretty mums.

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And for you die-hard cheerleaders out there. . . NCA custom headband mums.

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So the next time you're in Texas during the fall, be sure to stop by a homecoming game to see for yourself the Deep South tradition that just keeps getting bigger and better each year.

Does your town have a fun or unique homecoming tradition? We want to here from you, tag @FloCheer in your homecoming pics!

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