Not only are you probably gearing up for the colder weather, but the Fall season is the time when school starts, many sports kick off their season, and clubs and other activities begin. There’s something about Autumn that allows for a fresh start—a new school year is beginning, your slate is wiped clean, and new and exciting things are just around the bend.
If you’re looking for some fun ways to make the most of the season as Fall rolls in, look no further. We’ve compiled a list of ideas for you and friends to enjoy the new season while away at college.
1. Organize a bonfire
Most college campuses have space to have a bonfire, but if your campus doesn’t, try organizing one for your friends and roommates at a nearby park. Make sure there are no city ordinances about bonfires before you go for it, however. Invite people you see in the hallways, put up flyers, or use social media to get the word out. If you’re just getting to know people, invite your roommates and some other new students you’ve recently met.
A bonfire is a great place to chat, roast s’ mores or hot dogs, and get to know people. See if someone you know has a guitar they can bring, and everyone can join in on singing campfire songs.
2. Rake leaves for someone in need
Raking leaves can be really relaxing, but if you’re someone going through a hard time, they mostly just feel like a headache. Partner up with your roommate or a couple friends and see if there are any nearby neighbors who might need a helping hand. Not only might you make a new friend or two in a nearby neighborhood, but you’ll be blessing someone by doing the hard work of clearing off their lawn.
3. Make soup or pie
Chilly weather calls for meals like warm soup and crusty bread, and everyone knows that Fall is prime time for pies of all sorts. Have a soup potluck, where everyone who attends cooks a different type of soup, or have a pie bake-off with the people in your hall. There are plenty of fun, competitive cooking shows on TV if you want to model the event after one of those, or you can simply invite people over for some good food.
4. Visit an apple orchard
Fun abounds at apple orchards with hayrides, corn mazes, the actual picking of apples, and all the goodies and treats that can be bought at the store. Take a Saturday to go to your local apple orchard with a group of friends, and spend the day getting apples, taking pictures, and experiencing all the fun the orchard has to offer!
5. Carve pumpkins
Many people grew up doing this as a Fall tradition, and you can really get as artistic as you’d like with it! If you’ve never carved a pumpkin before, find a friend who has or do a little searching online to find the right way to go about it.
6. Walk in the woods
There’s nothing quite as peaceful as a walk in the woods on a crisp, cool day in the Fall. Especially once the leaves have started turning colors. Grab a sweatshirt and walk solo, or take a stroll with a few friends.
7. Wear cozy clothes
So long shorts and tank tops. It’s time to settle into your coziest sweaters, scarves, and hats. Oh, and don’t forget all those snuggly blankets you get to huddle under in the cold weather.
8. Take pictures with your roommates
Fall leaves make a great backdrop to pictures with your roommates. Have a mini photo shoot out in the leaves, and you might make some really special memories that will stay with you forever.
9. Go camping
As long as you have a warm sleeping bag, camping in the Fall can be a really beautiful, relaxing experience. Plus, if you go hiking, you don’t have to worry about dripping with sweat because of the weather.