What’s better than the fall season? Oh yeah, the fall season at UConn, of course. Nothing beats the crisp Connecticut air as we say goodbye to high-waisted shorts and beach days, and hello to our go-to brown booties and pumpkin flavored everything.
The fall screams outdoor activities, comfort foods and the preparation of our holiday wishlists. We suddenly pull out our best chunky sweaters, darken our hair and act as though we know what’s going on in the NFL.
UConn kicks butt at making sure students make the most of these harvest months, though, and here’s how:
1. Horsebarn Hill
Interested in cow tipping? Or just running around in your fresh pair of Nikes? UConn is known for the beautiful horsebarn hill, a free area that is open to anyone. Swing by for a morning run, picnic with your campus crush, day of petting the horses or most importantly, just come to get a super cool Instagram of it during sunset. Instant 100 likes.
2. Tailgates
So clearly basketball is our thing, but that doesn’t mean you can’t grab a six pack of Angry Orchards and enjoy the tailgate with your best friends this season. Be sure to get your fashionable husky shirt at the Co-op, and do all in your power to steal a hot dog or hamburger from a tailgate filled with alumni or parents. Tailgates are the time for great photos, your finest pair of Ray-Bans and acting like actually you care who wins. Not sure when the tailgates actually are? Find the UConn Football schedule here.
3. Apple Picking
Just because UConn is plopped in the middle of nowhere doesn’t mean there aren’t fun things to do around here. The fall is not complete without apple crisp, pumpkin bread and all those other fall yummy treats. Take a study break this fall and head over to Horse Listener’s Orchard to pick the most delicious apples and pumpkins in the area. Don’t leave without checking out their store, which holds some of the best apple cider you will ever taste.
4. New Freshman
The start of the fall semester means one thing: new students. Seniors: incase you weren’t feeling old enough as it is, don’t be shocked when you see a bunch of high school looking kids walking around campus with lanyards around their necks and maps in their hand looking petrified. They will be everywhere. Looking for a boyfriend ladies? Hang out in North Campus this semester and I guarentee there will be lots of eager freshman awaiting you.
5. Family Weekend
Let’s face it. Although we are all loving life at college and are too cool for our hometown, everyone needs their parents once in a while. Running low on Ramen noodles and cash? Well thank the heavens for parents weekend, right? Parents weekend happens during the fall semester at UConn, and is a great way to show your family that you strictly study while they aren’t here. You can show them all campus buildings, and maybe even take them to Geno’s Grille if there isn’t a four hour wait. Parents weekend at UConn is this weekend, so be sure get tickets to Jay Leno, clean your dorm and get your sh*t together!
6. Trail of Terror
Halloween in college always manages to become a weeklong event. Want a night off of crafting a costume from Pinterest? Gather a group of friends and head to the Trail of Terror in Wallingford (less than an hour from UConn) for one of the best outdoor haunted attractions you’ll ever experience. Enjoy this spooky night, where you will most likely find your boyfriend hiding behind you because he’s that scared. Don’t wait too long, though. Tickets will sell out before you know it! Purchase them here.
7. Cornucopia Fest
Come by Cornucopia Fest this Sunday at UConn. This annual event will be filled with outdoor activities and lots of fall fun. For more information about this awesome fall event, check out their site here!
8. Homecoming
Homecoming week this fall will be held from October 26- November 1 at UConn. This year’s theme is “Tune Into The 21st Century.” Homecoming is a weeklong event where organizations participate in events such as lipsync, float parade and the homecoming football game. Be sure to get your work done ahead of time, for this week will be one of the most memorable times of your college experience. Get more info here!
9. Fall Concerts
Every year UConn hosts an awesome fall concert. Don’t miss out on this years concert. Come check out Matt and Kim at 8:00 pm on October 17 in Jorgensen for a night of great music and fun. Ditch the bar and make this a night of your college experience that you will never forget. Purchase your tickets here!
10. Falling Leaves
We all know that UConn is one of the prettiest campuses around, especially in the fall. One of the best things about UConn in the fall is the beautiful scenery that comes with it. There is nothing better than leaves falling everywhere as you walk to class sipping your pumpkin spice latte. Enjoy this fall season by watching the leaves fall at UConn before the snowstorms begin.