Customs and Traditions

Hash Names

Hashers are not a pretentious bunch.  As such, we don't care how much you make, or what you do.  We don't give deferential treatment to those who normally get it at home or at work, and we don't look down our noses at those who are less fortunate.  We gather in a relaxed social setting, don't worry about the impression we make, we get sweaty and dirty, and generally make fun of ourselves and those around us.  To that end, we give each other disparaging names.  Most hash names have something to do with the hasher or something they may have done at a hash.  We usually ask for embarrassing stories from their friends, who can spill the dirt.  Many names can't be said in polite company, but often the best names are a combination of wit and innuendo (now there's a possible name - In U-End-Oh!  For a great rant on hash names by Burnt Sox, visit his Half-Mindrant.

Hash Terminology

As with most and specialized group, organization, or industry, hashers have their own set of terms to refer to their activities.  From a "back check" to "true trail", understanding the terminology is half the battle, and may make the difference between a cold beer and a cold ride in the back of a pickup.  See the guide to HashTerminology. 

Hash Songs

Nearly every hash has the favorite songs that they sing every week, and where ever you go, you'll always hear some new songs.  Like hash names, they're often rude and crude and not meant for young ears.  Songs are sung at the start circle to loosen everyone up before the run, are sometimes sung at the beer check, and nearly always sung at the end-circle.  When we're on a bus, or tubing down the river, or just generally waiting around, we sing hash songs.  Songs tend to bring us together and get everyone to join in.  We're certainly no American Idols, but songs sung by hashers always sound good.  Maybe its the beer...  Many hashes have a song list on their website of their popular songs, and there are websites dedicated to hash songs.  Look up the songs on your home hash's site, or check out The Big Heads H3 Hymnal.