It’s that time of year again! FSU’s Haunted Harvest is back and better than ever. In highlighting this exciting upcoming event, I had the opportunity to speak with Club Downunder’s (CDU) Special Events Coordinator, Juliana Palmer, who shared more about what attendees can expect from this FSU classic.
What is Haunted Harvest?
Haunted Harvest is an elaborate and festive Halloween carnival. Palmer says it will encapsulate “all things fall and October.” The event will feature attractions, free food and drinks, trick-or-treating with student organizations that will be tabling, face painting, fall crafts, and so much more. The Haunted Harvest will take place on FSU’s Union Green on the evening of Wednesday, Oct. 28, running from 7 p.m. till 10 p.m.
Who’s invited?
Everyone is invited! This CDU event is for all who love fall and Halloween. Palmer clarifies, “You don’t have to be an official FSU student to be in attendance. The Haunted Harvest is also a family-friendly event, and parents are welcome to attend should they be in town.” If you’re like me and need a break from midterm season, this event may act as a timely break from the stress of exams, papers, or just classes in general.
Do I need to wait in line?
Seasonal events are quite popular, with Palmer noting that “we (the CDU staff) typically see a line forming an hour before the doors of the event.” If you have class or a prior commitment, don’t stress. Palmer emphasized that “there’s no maximum capacity to the event, and you’re welcome to drop by at any point.” However, a note of caution: certain aspects of the Haunted Harvest are available in limited supply, like some limited-edition merch.
Attractions, costume contests, and more!
Palmer said to be on the lookout for two large attractions, carnival game booths, pumpkin painting, face painting, and on-campus organizations that will be participating in trick-or-treat style tabling. Also exciting, a costume contest will be held, and Palmer says, “The winner will receive a prize basket!” As someone who has attended last year’s Haunted Harvest, I can attest to the admirable creativity of the costume contest participants. Simply put, the seasonal events at CDU aren’t ones easily forgotten.
Why Haunted Harvest?
The middle of the week is a great time to get in the fall spirit before a busy Halloweekend. This event has been in the works since the summer, and each CDU department has contributed something special. This collective process has been a long-standing tradition, and Palmer’s testament to her wonderful team of coworkers makes me excited to experience the event that has been poured into by the staff.
When asked what made this event special, Palmer responded with ease, saying that “Bringing together a community of FSU students and seeing students who wouldn’t ordinarily interact bond over the season is so special.”
As if I needed any more convincing, Palmer added that the event is completely free for all attendees (as are all events hosted at CDU). You’ll certainly catch me at the Haunted Harvest on Oct. 28, as well as a few other CDU events along the way.
Stay tuned for a CDU graphic for the 2026 Haunted Harvest coming soon!
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