11 American Traditions That Brits Are Starting to Adopt

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11 American Traditions That Brits Are Starting to Adopt

Some things just don’t cross the pond, but others? They catch on fast. Over the years, plenty of American traditions have made their way into British culture, whether people like it or not. Some are fun, like throwing a big Halloween party, while others—like Black Friday—are a bit more controversial. Either way, these traditions are sticking around. Here are 11 American customs that Brits have started to adopt.

1. Black Friday

Black Friday used to be something Brits only saw in American movies—huge crowds fighting over discounted TVs the day after Thanksgiving. But now, UK stores have jumped on the trend, offering massive discounts toward the end of November. The funny thing? The UK doesn’t even celebrate Thanksgiving! That hasn’t stopped retailers from using it as an excuse to get people shopping.

Over the past decade, Black Friday sales have grown across the UK, both online and in stores. Some people love the deals, while others think it’s just another excuse for big businesses to push unnecessary spending. Either way, it’s hard to ignore when nearly every major retailer is slashing prices and advertising “the best deals of the year.”

While Brits aren’t quite as extreme as Americans when it comes to fighting over discounted gadgets, crowded shopping centers and website crashes have become part of the experience. Some prefer to skip the madness and wait for Cyber Monday instead, which is another American idea that has taken hold in the UK.

2. Gender Reveal Parties

Not too long ago, finding out a baby’s gender was a private thing—just a simple moment for parents. Now, gender reveal parties have started popping up in the UK, bringing with them colored balloons, smoke bombs, and even cakes that spill blue or pink filling.

These parties started in the US, and thanks to social media, they’ve spread quickly. Some Brits love the idea of celebrating this moment with family and friends, while others roll their eyes at the whole thing. It doesn’t help that some gender reveals have gone terribly wrong—like the ones involving fireworks or big explosions (yes, seriously).

Still, they keep growing in popularity. Whether it’s a small gathering or a huge event with confetti cannons, more and more British parents are choosing to announce their baby’s gender in a big way. It’s one of those traditions that some people embrace fully, while others think it’s just another excuse for a party.

3. Baby Showers

Traditionally, baby showers weren’t really a thing in the UK. Parents would get gifts for the baby after the birth, but there wasn’t a big event before the arrival. That’s changing now, with more Brits throwing baby showers just like in the US—games, presents, and all.

A lot of this comes from social media and TV shows, where baby showers look like a fun way to celebrate a new arrival. Some stick to a simple afternoon gathering with tea and cake, while others go all out with decorations, games, and gift registries.

Not everyone is on board, though. Some Brits feel uncomfortable with the idea of asking for presents before the baby is even born. Still, the tradition is becoming more common, especially among younger parents. Whether it’s a big event or a small get-together, baby showers are definitely becoming part of British culture.

4. Going All-Out for Halloween

Halloween wasn’t always a big deal in the UK. There were some trick-or-treaters and a few kids in costumes, but nothing like the American version. That’s changed in the past decade—now, Brits go all out with decorations, themed parties, and even pumpkin spice drinks.

Shops sell more spooky decorations than ever, and people are actually putting effort into their costumes. Instead of just throwing on a witch hat, you’ll see full-on makeup and elaborate outfits.

Pumpkin patches have also become a thing, with families going out to pick the perfect pumpkin for carving. And let’s not forget the rise of Halloween-themed food and drinks—pumpkin spice lattes, anyone?

Some people love the excitement, while others think it’s just another over-commercialized holiday. Either way, Halloween in the UK looks more American every year.

5. American-Style BBQs

Brits have always enjoyed a good barbecue, but traditional British BBQs were usually simple—burgers, sausages, and maybe some chicken skewers. Now, thanks to American influence, barbecue culture in the UK has stepped up a level.

Smoked meats, brisket, pulled pork, and ribs are becoming more common, with restaurants and home cooks getting into slow-cooking and smoking techniques. BBQ competitions and food trucks serving American-style barbecue are also popping up more often.

Even the equipment is changing. More people are investing in smokers and proper grills rather than just using a disposable barbecue from the supermarket. The idea of spending hours perfecting the perfect rack of ribs or slow-cooked brisket has taken hold, and it doesn’t look like it’s going anywhere.

6. Huge Wedding Parties

British weddings used to be fairly small, with a best man and a maid of honor being the only wedding party members. Now, thanks to American influence, bridesmaids and groomsmen numbers are growing. It’s not unusual to see weddings with five or more bridesmaids, matching outfits, and choreographed group photos.

Social media has also played a part in this shift. Pinterest, Instagram, and celebrity weddings have made big wedding parties seem like the norm. From coordinated dresses to elaborate wedding party entrances, the American-style wedding is definitely making its mark in the UK.

Some love the idea of having all their friends involved in their big day, while others see it as unnecessary and expensive. Either way, the days of having just one or two close friends standing beside you at the altar seem to be fading.

7. Casual Coffee Culture

Coffee on the go wasn’t always as big in the UK as it is now. Brits traditionally preferred a sit-down cup of tea over a takeaway coffee, but that’s changed with the rise of Starbucks-style coffee culture.

Now, grabbing a latte on the way to work is completely normal. Coffee chains are everywhere, and independent coffee shops have also taken off, offering everything from flat whites to cold brew. The idea of working from a coffee shop or spending hours chatting in one has also become more common.

While tea is still a big part of British culture, coffee is definitely taking over.

8. Super Bowl Watch Parties

Most Brits don’t understand American football, but that hasn’t stopped them from watching the Super Bowl. Over the past few years, Super Bowl watch parties have become more popular, even if people are mostly there for the halftime show and the snacks.

Pubs and bars now host Super Bowl events, and plenty of people stay up late to watch the big game. It’s less about the sport and more about the experience—good food, good company, and an excuse to stay up late.

9. College Graduation Ceremonies

Graduation ceremonies in the UK weren’t always such a big deal, but now they’ve started to look more American, with caps, gowns, and formal celebrations.

More universities are putting effort into these ceremonies, and families are treating them as major milestones. The American influence is clear, from the way photos are taken to the speeches given.

10. Brunch Culture

Brunch wasn’t always a British thing, but now, weekend brunch has become a big deal. From avocado toast to bottomless mimosas, brunch culture has definitely taken off in the UK.

Restaurants now offer dedicated brunch menus, and weekend plans often revolve around finding the perfect spot to enjoy eggs Benedict and a coffee.

11. Reality TV Obsession

The UK has always had its own reality TV shows, but the influence of American reality TV is huge. Shows like *Love Island* take inspiration from American dating shows, and drama-filled reality series are more popular than ever.

From big personalities to over-the-top storylines, British reality shows have definitely taken notes from their American counterparts. And with streaming services making American reality shows more accessible, the obsession is only growing.