Across campus and beyond, the leaves have changed colors, now slowly beginning to fall off their branches in preparation for snow—winter is approaching. As fall comes to an end, I find myself wanting to hold onto its small comforts for just a moment more. Between festive outdoor activities, classic television shows, and delicious treats, fall is my favorite season, one that I anticipate the return of each year.
Every fall, I make the classic visit to an apple orchard and a pumpkin patch, embracing the outdoors with the company of my friends or family. This year was no exception; in early October, my parents, siblings and I made the drive to Wisconsin to visit my orchard of preference: Apple Holler. Endless rows of apple trees cover the 78-acre farm, along with a petting zoo, adorable children’s games, and a shop filled with fall goodies—fudge, maple syrup, and, of course, apple cider. The apples were delicious, and I enjoyed watching my little siblings explore all that the orchard had to offer.
I spent time at a pumpkin patch too; towards the end of October, my friend and I went to Didier Farms in Lincolnshire, a small farm with plenty of pumpkins, as well as a hay ride, corn maze, and amusement rides. The location was filled with families, young children easily entertained by the numerous games spread across the pumpkin patch. My friend and I had a great time wandering through the farm, and I picked out a pumpkin to bring home, which I later carved with my family, a household tradition.
As an avid walker, I love taking long walks in the crisp autumn air, soaking in the beautiful scenery around me. The most convenient spot to go for a walk is around my neighborhood, but it is far more enchanting to drive to a forest preserve, where the trees are large and plentiful, and secluded pathways make way for a more peaceful environment. My personal favorite is Edward L. Ryerson Conservation Area in Riverwoods; I used to go on family walks there as a child, and now I often visit on my own to roam the several miles of trails the forest has to offer.
Beyond outdoor pursuits, fall television is a staple of the season. There are so many amazing shows and movies to watch: Gossip Girl, Gilmore Girls, Pretty Little Liars, Knives Out, Hocus Pocus, not to mention the endless Halloween movies available. Gilmore Girls holds a special place in my heart—I rewatch it every year, returning to beloved characters and a cozy, charming plot. Regardless of how busy life becomes, something is reassuring about knowing that Stars Hollow is always waiting, a world full of familiar faces and warm cups of coffee.
Fall food is wonderful too. Fall-themed beverages—pumpkin spice lattes, chia teas, apple cider, and hot chocolate—never fail to bring me joy. I love coming to school with a fun drink in hand, combining classwork with the excitement of autumn. Dishes often feature pumpkin, squash, and sweet potatoes, and there are plenty of fall desserts to choose from: caramel apples, apple and pumpkin pie, pumpkin bread, the list goes on. Some of my favorite fall rituals include stopping by Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory in Libertyville to grab a caramel apple and Hometown for a coffee or chai latte; brightening my day with a simple fall treat.
I am sad to see autumn go, but I appreciate that the season carries the same warmth and delight each year. It is now time to embrace winter, another season of comfort, tradition, and memories to be made.