Random Surprising Rumspringa Facts About Amish Tradition Of Rumspringa (19 items)

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  (#4) Social Media Means a Crazier Rumspringa

  Believe it or not, even the Amish have moved into the 21st century. Thanks to Facebook and smartphones, teens are able to put together crazy rumspringa parties with a few keystrokes. They aren't just using social media to put together gnarly Amish hangs, the kids are also posting pictures of themselves partying on their buggies and wearing "English," or worldly, clothes. 
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  (#3) When Does Rumspringa Happen?

  While the easiest rumspringa comparison is spring break, there isn't actually a specific time of the year when Amish teens let down their bonnets. Most Amish teens begin their rumpsringa at 16 years old, giving them enough life experience to somewhat function in normal society, while also providing enough time to lead a full life as a member of the community. 
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  (#9) Amish Kids Love Beer as Much as Non-Amish Kids

  An NPR dissection of the Amish party ceremony continually notes how much beer the kids drink. Picture in your mind's eye, "A used-car-lot inventory of cars, trucks, buggies, bicycles, and motorcycles is already parked here. Iced coolers of beer are put out; Amish teenagers reach for bottles with both hands."

  With such a selection, the favorite is clear: "Beer is the liquid of choice, but there are also bottles of rum and vodka, used to spike soft drinks."
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  (#12) Parents Don't Want Their Kids to Go Nuts

  Contrary to popular belief, Amish parents don't tell their kids to leave home and go wild in the fields of Pennsylvania. But at the same time, parents don't want to impede on their children's free choice in the decision to become Amish. Amish parents might disapprove of their children's behaviors, but they rarely exercise authority to prevent some of those actions.
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  (#20) Teens Are Afraid of Dying While on Rumspringa

  In a theological technicality that probably helps keep teens away from dabbling in truly reckless behavior, dying on rumspringa means a one-way ticket to hell. In a strict religious culture, this can be a powerful incentive to return to the fold.
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  (#11) Rumspringa Is Meant to Make Teens Want to Stay in the Community

  Most of the world views rumspringa as an excuse for Amish teens to cut loose, but inside the community, it's seen as a way for people to explore their faith. Some Amish view rumspringa as a vaccination against the outside world, while others see it as a test. 

  "Rumspringa is, in my words, a test of faith, but not necessarily a test to be failed or passed," according to one Amish source. "Then again, I may feel that way (that it is not to be failed or passed) because in the opinion of most Amish folks, I would have failed that test, but my beliefs are still strong."

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