Cold weather got you down? Missing home? Taft weekends getting just a bit too boring? We have just the thing for you! The perfect way to stop missing summer is to start loving fall, and this article is going to help you do just that! If you are a fall hater, don’t be so quick to judge. Take a look through these festive activities, and give us a chance to change your mind.
Did you know that there are plenty of things to do in the Watertown area that fit the fall aesthetic? If you’re in need of a change in scenery and want a quiet moment away from Taft, consider taking a trip to March Farms, a local farm in Bethlehem, CT. Located at 160 Munger Lane, March Farms is a quintessential representation of fall. Right at the entrance lies the expansive pumpkin patch that truly has something for everyone. There are huge carving pumpkins that are bigger than most of the children there, and little decorative pumpkins of multiple colors that you can use to “fallify” your dorm. Across the way is the farm shop (pictured above), my personal favorite part, where you can purchase all sorts of local produce and baked goods — the apple cider donuts are a must! At the top of the hill lie the orchards and corn maze, as well as live music and special events. It is quite the trek to get up there, though, so wear some walking shoes; you’ll thank me later!
Looking for some more spooky vibes? There are plenty of haunted houses, trails, and hayrides around during October! The Woodbury Lions Club hosts their annual hayride located at 14 School St in Woodbury, CT. The line for this event is always around the block, and it is definitely a fall favorite for locals. There are even homemade goods and hot apple cider sold in the line for the hayride, so be sure to bring some cash! If you are not available on those weekends, or you are looking for more of an up close and personal scare, I suggest visiting The Forsaken Lands Outdoor Haunted Attraction located at 54 Bare Hill Road in Goshen, CT. This one is definitely more frightening, so I would bring some friends and maybe use the bathroom beforehand! If you are prone to fainting when scared, please do not partake in this particular fall festivity — you know who you are. Screaming is okay.
Maybe you don’t want to brave the chilly autumn air, that’s okay! There are plenty of invigorating indoor activities that can keep you occupied as well. Cozy up with your favorite fall beverage and tune into a classic movie or TV show; Gilmore Girls is always a go-to if you’re looking for something binge-worthy and effortlessly witty. For some quintessential movies, you can never go wrong with Dead Poets Society or 10 Things I Hate About You to get you in the fall mood. To go along with your movie marathon, you can head to the kitchen and make some warm baked goods: we recommend the classic cinnamon rolls or apple pie (you can use the ones you picked from March Farms!).
Don’t worry, if you don’t want to stray too far from home, you can also curate the perfect “fall vibes” in your daily Taft routine. Well, okay, this one still requires a bit of a stroll, but the payoff is an irresistible festive frenzy. Grab a buddy and a coat and take a walk down to Marshalls. Restocked weekly with an array of fall decorations from bedazzled human-sized skeletons to fuzzy pumpkin throw blankets, Marshalls is the place to go to transform your room so that it’s bursting with autumn charm. Not to mention the door decorating competition. What other chance do you have to add a cheery, enchanting touch to your drab living space AND win a Jig gift card? There will be six winners!
If you’re willing to adventure into the crisp night air, there’s no better way to spend time with your friends than around a solo stove. These ingenious campfires are placed sporadically around campus and are the perfect place for a weekend hangout. Whether you are enjoying the warmth of the flames or the warmth of the company, take advantage of the fire by getting a pack of graham crackers, a Hershey’s bar, and a bag of marshmallows. S’mores are a classic for a reason.
If you’re genuinely looking for a more chill day in, the dining hall has got you covered! Pick up an apple in the dining hall. Restocked fresh from March Farms each morning, they are especially cold and crunchy at this time of year. It’ll make you think: “Why did I ever stop eating apples?” If fruit is not your thing, enjoy a pumpkin-themed dessert — honorable mentions to the fan favorites: chocolate chip pumpkin bread bars and the carrot cake.
The dining hall has serious untapped pumpkin-season vibes. For those willing to roll up their sleeves, it’s time to get crafty! Those who complain about our dining options just aren’t creative enough. Create a pumpkin spice latte with the specialty syrups or craft a fall harvest salad and grain bowl.
Pro tip: Take any of these treats to go and enjoy them out by the orange trees.
