The fall season brings remarkable natural scenery to Northwest Arkansas and opens the door to seasonal activities. As the cooler temperatures begin to settle in, the fall aesthetic of “sweater weather” and fall cliches make an entrance as well. Despite the unusually high temperatures this year, students began preparing for the cooler season by participating in their favorite fall traditions.  

“I really enjoy the fall aesthetic with the coffee, Halloween movies, cookies, sweaters, and blankets,” said sophomore Kylie Multz. “I feel like my mood in the fall is more chill because the weather is nice and it’s typically breezy.” 

With Halloween being the staple of the season, students enjoyed attending pumpkin patches, corn mazes and haunted houses in celebration. In preparation for the Halloween festivities, Multz said she attended a haunted house with her friends.  

“I also like to buy pumpkins and paint them or carve them,” Multz said.  

Some locally owned pumpkin patches in Fayetteville reside in Rivercrest Orchard and Reagan Family Farm. The Rivercrest Orchard also hosts a variety of other activities, such as ziplining, hayrides and corn mazes, according to the 2023 Guide to Pumpkin Patches in Northwest Arkansas. 

The pumpkin spice craze is another highlight of the fall season. Although not an avid pumpkin spice enjoyer, Multz said she does love pumpkin bread and pumpkin muffins with chocolate chips.  

Although the fall season revives the spirits of some students, it can also be challenging for others including sophomore Olivia Schinker.  She said fall is her favorite season, but it doesn’t come without its difficulties.  

Schinker said it can be a challenge for many because midterms creep in and grades start getting serious. However, she said you get to look cute while you’re going through the toughness. 

“The seasonal depression comes out,” she said, “but I also love fall because it’s when it gets colder, and I can dress cute.”