Although the heat is still lingering, fall is definitely on its way! We can already see signs of the approaching season as the leaves begin to slowly shift into shades of red, orange, and yellow. Soon enough, they will drop and the air will become crisp and welcoming. Fall is a season of candles, family, and obviously, all things pumpkin. For some, this season is considered to be nostalgic, but it can also serve as a clean slate. Fall has many great festivities, including Halloween and Thanksgiving. These special days revolve around friends, family, food, and the spirit of fall. When asked about what he is most looking forward to in fall, Tynan Scott (10) talked about how excited he was for Halloween, saying, “I’m looking forward to Halloween because I will get to dress up and hang out with my friends. And get lots of candy.”

Fall is, in some people’s opinions, the best time to dig out the cookbook. There are various unique and flavorful dishes to try. Some of the most popular include: pumpkin bread, caramel apples, chicken noodle soup, and of course, pumpkin pie. Many people have favorite fall dishes, including teachers! Mrs. Kauffman, an English teacher, commented, “Very basic, but anything pumpkin: pumpkin bread, pumpkin muffins.” She also mentioned how she loves to get Chico chai at the farmer’s market.

There are many activities you can take part in to celebrate this new season. Visit a pumpkin patch, cozy up by the fire, decorate your home, go to a corn maze, read a book, go for a hike (Bidwell park is a great place for this!), or hang out with your friends. You could also visit a cafe, rake up a leaf pile (then let your siblings or the neighbor kids jump in it!), watch a movie, have a game night, watch football, or eat yummy treats. All of these activities will help you embrace the fall feeling. After talking to Brianna Morris (12) about her favorite fall activities, she said, “I love staying inside with a good book with the fireplace burning and it’s raining… and drinking a cup of tea.” However you choose to spend your time this season, make sure to enjoy the slower feel of fall.