Only in Michigan: The Unique Name for This Store

There’s a type of store that’s common across the United States, but only in Michigan is it called by a different name.

Michiganders aren't looking for balloons and decorations at this type of store—when we say 'party store,' we mean something completely different.

The first thing that comes to mind when someone says, 'Hey, I’m going to the party store, do you need anything?' is someone grabbing a six-pack, a bag of chips, and maybe a scratch-off ticket.

No one says they're going to the convenience store for a pack of smokes and some gum. These types of stores have been called 'party stores' for as long as I can remember.

If a store sells the following items, it sure sounds like a party to me.

• Liquor
• Smokes
• Lottery Tickets
• Mixers
• Beer
• Snack Food
• Limited Groceries

A party store is convenient for a quick stop, but calling it a 'convenience store' sounds like something people in Ohio would do (just kidding).

If someone from Michigan moves elsewhere, they most likely still refer to liquor stores as party stores out of habit. It’s funny how local terms can become so ingrained in your brain.

I don’t know about you, but all this talk about party stores has me thinking. I might just have to stop by one on my way home tonight to grab a lottery ticket and some adult beverages

It seems like the pure Michigan thing to do.