Fall Fun: Activities to Spice Up the New Season

Discover exciting ways to enjoy the season’s beauty, from cozy gatherings to outdoor adventures and everything in between.

Marist Dining held its annual Harvest Farmer's Market in the outdoor dining hall tent last week, where students were able to try festive fall foods. Photo by Olivia Locarno '28

As the temperature drops and midterm work picks up, fall presents a beautiful backdrop for a range of exciting activities. Whether you’re a fan of outdoor adventures or cozy indoor activities, there’s something for everyone to enjoy during this vibrant season. 

Apple and Pumpkin Picking

Nothing screams fall more than a trip to a local farm for apple or pumpkin picking. Spend a sunny day with friends or loved ones picking out the best apples for your pies or pumpkins for your Halloween decor. Some farms even host fun events during this season, such as corn mazes, hayrides and markets. Local Poughkeepsie, New York spots include Dubois Farms, Pavero Apples and Farms and Barton Orchards. 

“One of the activities I look forward to every fall is going apple picking with my family,” said Chiara Pullara ‘28. “I especially look forward to buying apple cider donuts after as well.”

Decorate

One simple way to have fun and get into the spirit of the season is decorating. Finding things to decorate with can be fun, whether it be in your home over fall break, your dorm room or even your car. You can even DIY your own crafts to accessorize your areas. Carving or painting pumpkins is one easy and fun way to celebrate the season. If you ever run out of DIY craft ideas, a great place to start is Pinterest or simply just going on Google. Be on the lookout for events hosted by Marist College Student Activities and the different clubs around campus for some fun decoration-making nights.

Scary Movie Marathon

When the temperature outside gets chilly, it’s the perfect excuse to stay in and binge your favorite scary movies. Whether you prefer lighthearted Halloween favorites or classic horror films, a movie marathon is a great way to embrace and welcome the new season. 

“I love watching classic movies like ‘Saw’ and ‘A Nightmare on Elm Street,’” said Lola Milliman ‘28. “They get me into the Halloween spirit and never get old.” 

To get more into the spooky vibes of this season, here are some new or upcoming horror movies to add to your watch list: 

“Speak No Evil” — On vacation in Italy, an American family befriends a British family. Months later, the American couple receives an unexpected invitation. It doesn't take long before the joy of reunion is replaced with misunderstandings.

“Never Let Go” — When an unspeakable evil takes over the world, the only protection for a mother and her twin sons is their house and strong bond. Needing to stay connected at all times — even tethering themselves with ropes — they must cling to one another and never let go. 

Fall Festivals

Fall is festival season, and communities come alive with events celebrating harvest time. From local craft fairs to food festivals featuring seasonal specialties, these events offer fun for all ages. Most farms and orchards will host these events to commemorate the autumn season. The Hudson Valley is full of different festivals and markets during this time of year. A full list can be found online here, but here are just some of them:

Oct. 17-20 — 2024 NY State Sheep and Wool Festival

Oct. 20 — Beacon Sloop Club Pumpkin Festival 

Nature Walks and Hikes

The fall foliage is one of the most beautiful aspects that comes alive every October. Taking a walk or a hike is a great way to take in the red and orange-hued views. Living right on the Hudson River has its perks; during this season, you can see the trees across the way begin to change color. Even a simple walk across campus will fill you with gorgeous views and a true sense of autumn vibes. 

In addition to a campus walk, the Walkway Over The Hudson is also a fun activity to do this fall. When the weather is just right, a walk across the world’s “longest pedestrian bridge” is one that you can’t miss. Here are some other nearby paths and trails that are popular amongst hikers.

Vassar Farm Loop — This 4.1-mile loop takes about an hour and a half to complete and is only a 10-12 minute drive away.

Peach Hill Park Loop — This trail is an easier time, marking in at 2.2 miles and only taking about 55 minutes to complete. This loop is also located 10 minutes away by car.

Geology and Five Habitat Trail — The easiest of the bunch, this trail is only 1.2 miles and takes half an hour to complete. This trail is also located in Peach Hill Park.