Top 10 Fall Activities

In my humble opinion, fall is the greatest season of the whole year. The gorgeous scenery, stunning color palette, and the yummy treats all come together to make fall so spectacular! Here’s a comprehensive list of fall-themed activities you can do from anywhere, whether you’re on campus or at home. 

1. Make a trip to a local bakery for some festive treats

While pastries like cinnamon rolls and apple fritters aren’t necessarily a fall exclusive, there’s something about the crisp autumn air that makes them taste so much better. Support a local business by grabbing a pumpkin pie or caramel apple – you deserve it!

2. Take the scenic route through a park or walking path

When the stresses of midterms and classes get you down, getting some fresh air on a walk is a great way to clear your mind! Although I’ve only been on campus for a couple of months, the Arboretum and Idea Garden have been my favorite places to spend an hour, just soaking up the beautiful changing leaves. 

3. Deck yourself out in Illini gear

Orange and blue are staple colors on the fall color palette. Toss on a UIUC crewneck or hoodie to stay warm and represent your school!

4. Visit a pumpkin patch or an apple orchard

Not only do they make an excellent backdrop for an Instagram picture, but there’s plenty of fun activities, like corn mazes! If you’re on campus, check out Curtis Orchard and Pumpkin Patch in Champaign. 

5. Express some creativity by carving some pumpkins

After you pick out some pretty pumpkins at the patch, clean the insides out and go crazy with the design! Don’t forget to save the pumpkin seeds to make a more health-conscious fall snack with.

6. Warm up with a pumpkin spice coffee or hot apple cider

I’ve definitely spent more money than I’d like to admit on pumpkin spice iced coffee from Dunkin’ Donuts this season! Stop at a coffee shop, grab a warm drink, and cuddle up with your favorite podcast or movie. 

7. Watch or listen to Illini sporting events

As sad as it is that we can’t support our teams in person this year, there’s still plenty of ways to celebrate game day! Pull the game up on your T.V. or computer and make some tailgate snacks in the comfort of your own home.

8. Wander around a Farmers Market

Nothing screams fall more than a Farmers Market! You can support local farmers while picking up fresh produce or cute little pumpkins and squash to decorate your space with. Some suggestions for those on campus would be the Champaign Farmers Market or Urbana’s Market at the Square.

9. Picnic in the park 

Make a mini charcuterie board and lay down a blanket in an open area! Cute spots on campus would be Illini Grove and the Quad, or any park will do just the trick.

And lasty, but most importantly,

10. Vote.

If you’re eligible and registered, vote. Check out websites like turbovote.com to see when the various deadlines are within your state. With a day off of classes on November 3^rd, there are no excuses not to exercise your right to vote. 

Even though we’re experiencing restrictions due to social distancing requirements, there are still plenty of ways to participate in fun fall activities!