Fall is in the air!
The leaves have changed color and the weather is getting cooler. It’s that time of year for warm and fuzzy sweaters, coats and jackets, pumpkin spice lattes, and bundling up under a blanket by the fireplace. These natural occurrences may seem foreign to international students who grew up in tropical areas, whether South America, Africa, Southeast Asia, or Oceania. As a child of African immigrants, I understand that new weather changes can be challenging. However, there are also fun activities that people do every fall, whether it’s harvest festivals, apple picking, or jumping into piles of raked leaves.
1. Experience the Changing Fall Colors 🍁
One of the most beautiful aspects of fall in the US is the changing leaves. If you’re in a region with lots of trees, like New England, the Midwest, or the Pacific Northwest, head to local parks or even nearby mountains for breathtaking views of red, orange, and yellow foliage.
Popular places to see fall foliage:
– New England: Visit Vermont, New Hampshire, or Maine for stunning views.
– Great Smoky Mountains National Park (Tennessee/North Carolina): A beautiful mix of colors and wildlife.
– Rocky Mountain National Park (Colorado): If you’re in the west, enjoy autumn colors with mountain views.
2. Visit a Pumpkin Patch 🎃
Pumpkin patches are a major part of American fall culture. Many farms open their fields for visitors to pick pumpkins, which you can use as decoration, carve into jack-o’-lanterns, or use in autumn recipes.
Tip: Look for a local farm or a harvest festival. Some even have corn mazes and hayrides!
3. Attend an American Football Game 🏈
American football is a major part of fall culture in the US. Whether it’s a professional NFL game, a college match, or even a high school game, you’ll see how seriously Americans take their football.
For you international college students: support your university’s team by attending games with your classmates. It’s a great way to meet people and soak in the school spirit!
4. Experience Halloween 👻
Halloween, celebrated on the last day of October, is one of the most popular holidays in the US. Get involved by dressing up in a costume, attending a party, or going trick-or-treating. Many cities also have Halloween events like haunted houses, parades, and festivals.
Activities to try:
– Carving a pumpkin into a jack-o’-lantern
– Visiting a haunted house (if you enjoy a good scare)
– Watching scary movies with friends
5. Explore Fall Festivals 🍂
Across the US, fall is packed with festivals celebrating everything from local harvests to music and art. Farmers’ markets, apple-picking festivals, Oktoberfests, and craft fairs pop up in many towns and cities, offering a chance to try seasonal foods, enjoy live entertainment, and discover local culture.
Popular fall festivals include:
– Oktoberfest celebrations in cities like Cincinnati, Milwaukee, and Denver
– Apple festivals in regions known for apple growing, like Washington State or New York
– Harvest festivals that often feature hayrides, food stands, and more
6. Enjoy Thanksgiving 🦃
While Thanksgiving isn’t until late November (the fourth Thursday of the month), it’s a major holiday in the States. It’s a great opportunity to experience traditional American dishes like turkey, stuffing, cranberry sauce, and pumpkin pie.
Ask your IFI location about gatherings! They’ll usually pair you with host families or have “Friendsgiving”, where students come together to celebrate and share a meal.
7. Hiking and Outdoor Activities ⛰️
With cooler temperatures and beautiful landscapes, fall is the perfect time for hiking and outdoor adventures. Whether you’re into hiking, cycling, or just exploring local nature spots, fall offers an ideal climate.
Top hiking destinations:
– Appalachian Trail (East Coast)
– Zion National Park (Utah)
– Yosemite National Park (California)
8. Warm Up with Seasonal Foods and Drinks 🍎
American fall cuisine is full of warm, comforting flavors like cinnamon, apple, and pumpkin spice.
Be sure to try:
– Pumpkin spice lattes (PSLs) from local cafés
– Apple cider (both hot and cold) & apple cider donuts
– Fall-inspired baked goods like pumpkin pie, apple crisp, and pecan pie
Many cafes and bakeries also feature seasonal treats that vary by region, so try out local spots for a unique taste of fall!
9. Visit Museums and Cultural Sites 🖼️
As the weather cools, indoor activities become more appealing. The States is home to countless museums, art galleries, and historical sites. Many offer student discounts or even free entry days. Check out exhibits near your campus or plan a weekend trip to a nearby city to explore its cultural attractions.
Top museums to visit:
– The Met in New York City
– The Smithsonian Museums in Washington, D.C.
– The Getty Center in Los Angeles
10. Prepare for Winter
Though fall is full of fun, it also means winter is coming! If you’re from a warmer climate, it’s important to prepare for the colder months ahead. Stock up on warm clothes, especially if you’ll be staying in the northern US. It’s a good time to buy jackets, scarves, gloves, and hats.
Ask your local IFI for the best bargain stores for your winter gear! Or you might get blessed, as some IFI locations do winter gear donations!
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Whether you’re exploring nature, celebrating American traditions, or simply enjoying a pumpkin spice latte, fall in the US offers a variety of unique experiences for international students. Make the most of your time by embracing the season and trying something new! 🤗🧡
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