22 American Subcultures You Probably Don't Know About

Hidden American Subcultures You Didn’t Think Existed

America is often described as a melting pot, blending different cultures, ideas, and traditions into a single nation. However, dozens of unique subcultures are quietly thriving, full of fascinating customs, quirky rituals, and passionate communities. 

Juggalos

Ever seen someone walking in broad daylight wearing face paint and dressed like a clown? No, they don’t work at the circus, and it’s normal as this is how people who belong to the Juggalos subculture like to present themselves. They have developed their own slang, often misunderstood.

Juggalo March

SullyDC, CC BY 2.0, Wikimedia Commons

Juggalos Cont.

This subculture emerged from the fanbase of the hip-hop duo Insane Clown Posse, Juggalos, which is a colorful, clown-faced subculture devoted to the music and bizarre horror themes ICP personifies. Originating in Detroit, Michigan, Juggalos hold annual gatherings where thousands of members assemble. 

Juggalo March 15

Amaury Laporte, CC BY 2.0, Wikimedia Commons

Bronies

Originally centered around the animated series My Little Pony: Friendship Is Magic, the Brony subculture comprises primarily adult men who find joy and camaraderie in the world of colorful ponies. Not your usual subculture, isn’t it? But yes, they do exist on this planet.

Bronycon summer 2012 cosplay session

Keith Survell, CC BY-SA 2.0, Wikimedia Commons

Bronies Cont.

First emerging online in the early 2010s, Bronies organized conventions, like BronyCon, that attracted thousands of fans. They celebrate the show’s themes of friendship and kindness, defying traditional gender norms while uniting in their shared love of an unlikely source of inspiration.

Bronycon 2014 cosplay contest

Douglas Muth, CC BY-SA 2.0, Wikimedia Commons