The first official day of fall was September 22nd, yet it still feels like summer here with our endlessly hot weather, closets full of sundresses, and darties that take up our entire Saturdays. It's hard to get into the autumn mood before the leaves change and everyone pulls out their flannels, but here are some ways to feel more fall-ish in Charlottesville as we wait for October to roll around.
1. Pick apples at Carter's.
This is the perfect way to spend a weekend afternoon or Thursday evening; Carter's offers beautiful views of the mountains, sweet apples, and the most delicious spiced donuts in the world.
2. Go on an early morning hike.
Humpback is the classic go-to for sunrise hikes, but there's a ton of other trails that are awesome to try out. Since the mornings are colder and crisper, you'll feel like it's the middle of fall already.
3. Make some classic fall desserts.
It really isn't fall without apple cider and pumpkin pie. Try this easy cider and no-fail pie recipe the next time you want to impress your friends with your autumnal culinary skills.
4. Watch Halloween movies.
There are endless movies to put you into the fall mood: check out these for autumn feels or go straight to the Halloween classics.
5. Order a Pumpkin Spice Latte from Starbucks.
Be basic AND in the fall spirit. It's a win win.
6. Carve pumpkins with your roommates.
Liberty Mills Farms offers pick-your-own pumpkins and a corn maze, so come with your friends for a fun afternoon of making Jack-o-lanterns and avoiding homework.
7. Light fall-scented candles around your room.
Get cozy with all the new candle scents from Yankee Candle and Bath & Body Works that come out with the change of the season. Plus it'll make your apartment smell ~delicious~.
8. Plan your Halloween costume.
Group costumes are awesome to plan with your friends, so start thinking of cool ideas like these to get excited for October.
9. Go to a football game.
We probably won't win, but the tailgates and sitting with friends on the hill make the likely loss worth it.
10. Online shop for sweaters.
Or any fall clothing, really. Flannels, scarves, boot socks, the possibilities are endless. RIP bank account.
11. Make autumn crafts for your apartment or dorm.
If you're one of the lucky few college students with free time, try these easy autumn-themed crafts to bring the season into your place.
12. Find a haunted house.
Haunted houses normally don't make appearances closer to October, but visit The Wickham Farmhouse or Castle Hill Manor in a few weeks to really feel like fall. Or wait until Halloween and stop by Brown College for their annual Haunting.
13. Read a good fall-themed book.
Pair one of these novels with some cider and a snuggly blanket for a relaxing autumn evening.
14. Take a day trip along Skyline Drive.
This drive is absolutely beautiful once the leaves begin to change. Do it for the Snapchat, or just for a relaxing afternoon exploring the mountains.
15. Tour wineries.
Charlottesville is known for its vineyards and breweries, so come for tastings and the views to feel like a sophisticated adult enjoying the season.
16. Run a fall 5k.
There is no shortage of autumn-themed runs here in Charlottesville; try one of these races for a fun, ~healthy~ morning with friends. And for an excuse to eat a ton of apple pie afterwards.
17. Foxfield Family Day.
You don't have to wait until April for Foxfield; our favorite horse races offer a "family" day on the last Saturday of September for a more lowkey day of watching horses and enjoying fall-themed activities.
18. Eat dinner outside on the Corner.
If you just want to stay close to Grounds, it's always a good idea to enjoy a meal and a pitcher of Bold Rock outside with friends at one of the Corner restaurants. Crozet, Trinity, the Virginian, and Boylan offer great outdoor sitting areas.
Even though we're still in the summer mood, fall is coming, and there's endless options for enjoying the turn of the season here in Charlottesville. Time to make the most of the autumn spirit before we're trudging through snow to class and craving warmer weather again.
