Why Drivers Display This Upside-Down Sticker on Their Cars

You’ve probably seen it: a jagged, minimalist outline of Washington State—but flipped upside down—stuck proudly on a Subaru, a dusty hatchback, or a  bike frame in a coffee shop parking lot.

At first glance, you might think, “Did they put it on wrong?”

But no—it’s intentional.

And what began as a lighthearted inside joke has blossomed into a beloved symbol of Pacific Northwest identity, blending humor, humility, and deep regional pride.

Let’s explore the story behind this upside-down emblem—and why so many people wear it like a badge of honor.

 The Origin: A   Sticker That Went Viral

Like many state outline  decals, the   Washington State sticker started as a simple way for travelers and locals to show where they’re from. Its distinctive shape—the Olympic Peninsula jutting west, the Cascade Mountains splitting the state, the angular Canadian border—makes it instantly recognizable, even in silhouette.

In the 2010s, these stickers exploded on backpacks, laptops, and car bumpers, especially among outdoor enthusiasts, hikers, and coffee lovers (yes, it pairs perfectly with that other PNW icon: the green mermaid). 

But then… someone flipped it.

 Why Upside Down? The Real Meaning(s):