Recent seasonal changes and shifting weather patterns have embarked the beginning of the autumn season, which can mean only one thing; Fall festivities have begun.

   Leaves have started to turn colorful hues of red and orange, and the air is becoming crisp. It’s that time of season, full of harvest festivals, spooky spirits, and iced pumpkin chai.

   Fall can be one of the most eventful seasons throughout the year, with there being numerous activities to take part in. Additionally, the warmth from a mug of hot apple cider or the comfort from a pair of cozy uggs can always help to bring people together this time around.

   To make the most of this fall, here are some fun autumn activities you won’t want to miss out on this season:

  Pumpkin Carving-

   This activity is completely accessible and enjoyable for all ages! Ohio is one of the top pumpkin-producing states, which means there are plenty of shapes and sizes to claim from to begin carving away. Common carvings might include cartoon characters or animals. You can also generate ideas from sources like Pinterest or Instagram to receive some inspiration for your pumpkin.

   “My family and I always go pick out pumpkins and then carve them together. I love this tradition because it’s always so fun spending time with family,” Maddie Clifton ‘27 said.

   Zombiezi Bay at Columbus Zoo- 

 This event located at the Columbus Zoo typically starts towards the end of September, and runs all the way through Halloween. Workers are dressed up in horrific costumes while their goal is to scare people walking around. There are also several other entertainment sources in the park during this event such as haunted mazes and small roller coasters and rides. The best time of day to attend this event is after dark, which is where the spooky atmosphere really arises with all of the added Halloween music and dressed-up workers hidden from plain sight.

  Visit a fall festival-

The tradition of going to fall festivals has continued to live on over the decades. An activity that remains to be timeless each year is still enjoyed by many today. Getting lost in corn mazes, picking out a special pumpkin from the pumpkin patch, and going on hay rides are all simple activities, yet they seem to never get old. If anything, fall festivals are one of the most favored autumn traditions.

   “I love going through the corn mazes. They are especially fun to do with friends at night,” Alexis Faris ‘28 said.

   Try a new fall-inspired baking recipe-

   During the autumn season, all kinds of spices and foods emerge. Apples and pumpkins flourish during the fall months, while cinnamon and cranberries are also popular additions to a variety of dishes. Pumpkin loaf and apple pie are just a couple foods generally baked this time of year. Meanwhile, drinks like apple cider and chai lattes are particularly favored this season. Check out this recipe to learn how to make White Chocolate Chai Pumpkin Snickerdoodles here!

   No matter what your plans are this fall season, there are various ways to fulfill it with enjoyable moments. Remember it’s not always about how you spend your time, but who you spend your time with. Friends and family can really bring out the magic in the autumn season.