Fall activities for college students aren’t just about having fun – they’re the perfect way to balance busy study schedules with festive fall traditions.
Think pumpkin spice everything, an annual visit to the pumpkin patch and celebrating spooky Halloween festivities – and fall is one of the best times of the year to fill your phone storage with photos of beautiful memories.
Whether you’re looking for weekend adventures with friends, festive outings or new traditions, autumn brings plenty of opportunities to enjoy yourself – because being a student doesn’t mean all study and no play.
Fall Activities for College Students
1. Attend a Fall Festival
With the twinkling night lights, smell of kettle corn and live music floating through the air, festivals are the perfect chance to grab a caramel apple, browse local crafts and make memories with friends. Check out the top fall festivals in the USA for more inspiration.
2. Host Friendsgiving
Hosting Friendsgiving is a long time fall tradition! Gather your friends, share a meal and celebrate the season together. It doesn’t have to be fancy – make it potluck, light a few candles and give thanks for all that’s good in life.
3. Make Thanksgiving Care Packages
Spread fall cheer by putting together a thanksgiving care package for a friend, neighbor, or anyone who could use a little extra warmth this season. Fill them with homemade baking, non-perishable foods and small festive items like cinnamon scented candles or fuzzy socks. It’s a simple way to share gratitude and make someone’s autumn a little brighter.
4. Visit the Pumpkin Patch
Take part in a timeless fall tradition of strolling through fields of plump, orange pumpkins. Whether you pick the perfect pumpkin for carving, take a few festive photos or enjoy the seasonal decorations and hot apple cider, a trip to the pumpkin patch welcomes the season.
5. Take a Hay Ride
Often offered at the pumpkin patch, a hay ride is a great way to make memories with friends or family.
6. Carve a Pumpkin
Pick a pumpkin and get creative! Whether you’re doing classic jack-o’-lanterns or painted designs, carving pumpkins is a fun, festive way to celebrate fall. Make it even more fun by hosting a pumpkin carving party.
7. Roast Pumpkin Seeds
Don’t toss those seeds! Roasting pumpkin seeds is a simple, tasty way to enjoy every part of your pumpkin. Sprinkle them with salt, cinnamon or your favorite spices for a crunchy and healthy fall-flavored snack.
8. Have a Halloween Party
Gather friends, decorate your space with spooky decorations and celebrate All Hallows’ Eve. Whether it’s a costume bash, a movie night or a simple get-together, a Halloween party is a classic way to celebrate the season and make fun memories.
9. Do Some Fall-Themed Baking
Nothing says fall like baking with cozy and classic autumn flavors like pumpkin, cinnamon and apple. Baking is a great way to relax, savor the season or add a little something personal to a fall college care package.
RECIPE IDEAS:
- Pumpkin pie
- Pumpkin chai latte cupcakes with espresso cream cheese frosting
- Apple crisp
- Apple pie
- Butternut squash bread
- Cinnamon coffee cake
10. Do Some Fall-Themed Cooking
Along with baking, fall is the perfect time to enjoy all the delicious in-season vegetables. Use seasonal favorites that combine apples, squash and warm spices.
Bonus – it doubles as meal prep!
RECIPE IDEAS:
- Butternut squash soup with a hint of nutmeg
- Pumpkin chili for a hearty, comforting meal
- Autumn harvest salad with roasted squash, cranberries and roasted pumpkin seeds
11. Volunteer at a Shelter
Fall brings a season full of gratitude, and one of the best ways to celebrate is by giving back. One year I volunteered at the Salvation Army Thanksgiving dinner and it was a blast – something I’m so happy I did and will forever hold in my heart.
12. Go Apple Picking
Spend an autumn afternoon wandering through an apple orchard and filling your basket with fresh varieties. It’s a simple joy that pairs perfectly with taking a few photos, sipping apple cider and planning all the delicious recipes you can make later.
13. Attend a Football Game
Football season starts in September, and it’s the perfect time to attend an outdoor game before it gets too cold. NFL or local college team, all games are a fall sports classic filled with energy, community and plenty of spirit.
14. Go on a Fall Hike
Find a local trail (or make a road trip to one!) and spend the day surrounded by fiery red maples, golden aspens and the crunch of leaves underfoot. A hike in autumn isn’t just exercise – it’s a full seasonal experience.
15. Have a Bonfire
Gather around the crackle of fire with blankets, good friends and something to sip on. There’s something magic about the glow of the flames and the time spent with friends that makes bonfire nights often unforgettable.
16. Roast Marshmallows & Make S’mores
Don’t forget the s’more ingredients! Whether you make the classic graham cracker and chocolate combo or get creative with fun toppings, making s’mores is a traditional activity to enjoy with bonfire night.
17. Go to a Haunted House
Step into the spooky spirit of the season with a trip to a haunted house. Whether you love the thrill of a jump scare or just enjoy the laughter that comes after, it’s a fun way to get into the Halloween spirit.
18. Do a Corn Maze
Wander through towering stalks, get a little lost and laugh your way out – it’s all part of the fun of a corn maze. Whether you tackle it by day to enjoy the crisp air or at night for a spooky twist, a corn maze is a fall tradition that never gets old.
19. Make Mulled Wine or Apple Cider
Fill your home with the cozy aroma of simmering spices by making mulled wine or apple cider. With cinnamon sticks, cloves and a splash of citrus, these drinks taste like fall in a mug.
20. Shop for Fall Clothes
One of my favorite ways to spend a rainy fall day! Wether I’m at the mall or a thrift shop, I love all the boots, fluffy socks and scarves that come with bundling up in fall’s deep colors.
21. Have a Fall Craft Night
Set out supplies, throw on some music and spend an evening making something festive. From painting mini pumpkins, making garlands to painting wood signs, a craft night is the perfect way to relax or get creative with friends.
22. Make a Fall Wreath
Welcome autumn at your doorstep with a handmade fall wreath. Think colorful leaves, miniature pumpkins, berries and pinecones.
23. Decorate Your House, Porch & Study Desk
Bring the colors and cozy vibes of fall indoors and out by adding seasonal touches to your home. Think mini pumpkins on your desk, a garland across your porch or warm-toned décor in your space. Even the smallest detail can make your space feel festive.
24. Watch Fall Movies
When the weather turns cool it’s time to curl up with a blanket, a warm drink and a lineup of fall-inspired films. From cozy comedies, heartwarming classics and spooky Halloween favorites, watching seasonal movies is the perfect way to relax.
MY FAVORITES:
- Hocus Pocus – a Halloween classic full of fun and magic
- It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown – perfect for nostalgia
- Practical Magic – a mix of witchy fun and fall charm
- Dead Poets Society – a great show for study motivation with a crisp, autumn backdrop
- Harry Potter series – Hogwarts feels especially magical in autumn
25. Have a Fall Picnic
Take advantage of sunny days with a fall picnic surrounded by colorful leaves and the last of the summer grass. Pack delicious fall foods like apple cider, roasted vegetables, pumpkin muffins or hearty roasted turkey and apple sandwiches.
26. Do a Fun Run
Lots of fun runs are scheduled during the fall. Try the turkey trot, pumpkin-themed 5K or a Halloween costume run for a great way to have a little healthy fun.
27. Go Camping (or Glamping)
Whether you’re roasting marshmallows, telling stories under the stars or sipping hot cider, camping is a perfect getaway to recharge amongst fall’s beauty. Or, upgrade your trip to glamping (glamorous camping) – an outdoor experience that combines the adventure of camping with the comfort and amenities of home, like cozy beds, electricity or even a heated tent.
28. Host a Murder Mystery Dinner Party
Bring a little intrigue to your fall nights with a murder mystery dinner party. Guests can dress up, get into characters and try to solve the crime while enjoying a fall meal. It’s perfect for laughter, suspense and something a little different.
29. Celebrate National & International Coffee Day
Break out your favorite mug and celebrate coffee’s cultural, social and economic impact.
- September 29th – National Coffee Day
- October 1st – International Coffee Day
It’s a perfect excuse to have a coffee shop study session while recognizing the farmers and communities worldwide who grow and produce our most beloved study drink.
30. Go Wine Tasting
Fall is harvest season, which means crisp whites and rich reds that pair well with fall menus. Many wineries host harvest festivals, food pairings or special tastings in the fall that you won’t find in summer.
31. Celebrate Oktoberfest
Bring a little Bavarian spirit into your fall by celebrating Oktoberfest. Whether you head to a local festival or host your own at home, it’s all about good food, lively music and plenty of pretzels fresh from the oven enjoyed with hearty sausages and a frosty mug of beer or two.
32. Hand Out Candy to Trick-or-Treaters
Stock up on sweets and get ready for the doorbell to ring! Handing out candy is a fun opportunity to see the costumes, share a smile and participate in the Halloween spirit without leaving your house.
33. Drink a Pumpkin Spice Latte
What would fall be without the iconic pumpkin spice latte? Grab one from your favorite coffee shop or try making a homemade version.
34. Go Leaf Peeping
“Leaf peeping” is a widely used term (especially in the US Northeast/New England) for the activity of going out specifically to admire and enjoy the beautiful fall foliage. Take a drive, hike or plan a trip to see the vibrant reds, oranges and yellows as the leaves change.
35. Go to a Farmer’s Market
From crisp apples and pumpkins to fresh squash and homemade treats, a fall farmer’s market is a great way to support local farmers and pick up ingredients for all your cozy fall recipes.
36. Celebrate National Dessert Day
Mark your calendar for October 14th – it’s National Dessert Day! It’s the perfect excuse to treat yourself to something sweet, whether that’s baking a a fall dessert, picking up a slice of pie from your favorite bakery or gathering friends for a little dessert potluck.
37. Go on a Road Trip
An autumn getaway is one of my favorite fall activities as a college student. Whether you’re chasing foliage or checking off a bucket list item, pack some snacks, make a playlist and hit the road.
38. Host a Scary Movie Marathon
Dim the lights, grab some blankets and queue up your favorite horror movies or Halloween classics.
39. Annual Gilmore Girls or Gossip Girl Rewatch
One of my personal favorite fall activities and one of the study community, there’s something about these shows that warrants an annual rewatch. No matter how old I get, these two shows always make me excited for fall.
40. Knit a Scarf or Blanket
Cooler weather is the perfect excuse to pick up some yarn and get crafty. Whether you’re knitting a scarf, socks or a big cozy blanket, it’s a relaxing way to make something you’ll use all season long. Bonus – handmade pieces make thoughtful fall gifts.
41. Make Fall-Scented Candles
Think pumpkin spice, cinnamon, vanilla or apple cider – scents that instantly make any room feel autumn-ready. It’s a fun DIY activity that doubles as seasonal décor or makes a perfect handmade gift.
42. Go Horseback Riding
If you’re an animal lover like me, nothing is better than exploring autumn trails on horseback. The crisp air, crunch of leaves under hoof and the smell of horses (why do they smell so good?!) is an unforgettable way to enjoy the season. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or trying it for the first time, it’s a fall adventure worth taking.
43. Host a Board Game Night
When the nights get chilly, gather some friends for a board game night. From classics like Scrabble and Clue to newer favorites like Root or Ticket to Ride, it’s the perfect way to laugh, snack and enjoy a cozy evening in.
44. Schedule Some Outdoor Photography
Golden leaves and cozy sweaters make fall the ultimate backdrop for photos. Whether you’re having a personal photoshoot or just capturing the beauty of nature, don’t miss the opportunity for fall photography.
45. Bird Watch During Migration
Fall brings a spectacular display of migrating birds, so dust off your binoculars. Head to a local park, nature reserve or even your backyard to spot colorful flocks like American Robins, Canada Geese and Yellow-rumped Warblers.
46. Rent a Cabin
Escape the hustle, bustle and busy study sessions to cozy up in a rustic cabin surrounded by fall foliage. Whether you spend your days hiking, sipping hot drinks by the fire or simply enjoying the quiet outdoors, a cabin getaway is the perfect way to reset.
47. Collet Fall Leaves
Take a stroll through your neighborhood, a park or forest and gather leaves in all shapes, sizes and colors.
Press them in a book, use them for crafts or turn them into personalized, leaf-pressed bookmarks – a great handmade gift idea.
48. Make a Cozy Reading Nook
Carve out a little corner of your home for reading this fall. Add soft blankets, pillows and warm lighting and you’ve got the perfect spot to curl up with a good book.
49. Create a Fall Reading List
Autumn is the perfect time to dive into a stack of seasonal reads. Mix in cozy mysteries, heartwarming classics, spooky Halloween stories or that self-improvement book that’s on your list.
RECOMMENDED READ:
50. Create a Fall Journal
Capture memories by starting a fall journal. Make a list of activities to check off, record new experiences and recipes or even your gratitude for the small daily pleasures. Get a pretty lined notebook or get extra creative with a bullet journal.
51. Go Stargazing
Take a drive away from the city lights, spread out a blanket and marvel at the stars. Look for autumn constellations like Pegasus, the Andromeda Galaxy or Saturn which can be seen in early fall. Stargazing is a perfect activity when renting a cabin, camping or glamping.
52. Do a Festive Puzzle
Nothing is more complex than a puzzle with a leaf landscape or a bursting pumpkin patch. I find this is a great way to de-stress after a long day of studying.
53. Take a Fall Bike Ride
If you like to pedal, fall bike rides are a great way to enjoy fresh air and changing leaves. Look for scenic, festive or social rides such as leaf-peeping tours, riding to meet up with friends for a coffee or taking part in a Halloween costume ride.
54. Go on a Spooky, Historical Tour
Explore local legends, haunted sites or historical landmarks. Google “Haunted places near me” to see what haunted history is in your area.
55. Pick Out Fall Back-to-School Nails
I feel that nothing makes me want to study harder than having perfectly polished nails I can admire every time I study!
6 Easy Ways to Add Fall Activities Into Your Busy Study Schedule
Even if you have a full course load, here are 6 tips to incorporate fall activities into your schedule so you can enjoy fall as much as possible:
- Take a brisk walk through colorful leaves between study sessions to collect leaves and do some leaf-peeping.
- Sip a pumpkin spice latte while reviewing notes.
- Host a study session that ends with a board game evening with your study group.
- Try a new seasonal recipie as part of your meal prep.
- Decorate your desk with fall décor to enjoy autumn during every study session.
- Work on a fall-themed puzzle as part of your bedtime wind-down.
The fall season is a busy time for college students, so make sure to balance study with fun fall activities you look forward to!
What are your favorite fall activities? Let me know in the comments!
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