BY GILLIAN MCCRACKEN (’17)

As August comes to an end and September and October roll around, each family has different traditions that seem to fulfill their “fall favorites.” When thinking of fall, there are a few things that should be done before the season is over.

Go to a pumpkin patch. Pumpkin patches are always fun, whether it is to get a pumpkin itself or to see the fun activities and of course to get some fresh apple cider. When it comes to pumpkin patches, Pigeon Roost Farm is always a family tradition. I think it is the best pumpkin patch due to the variety of fun activities, games, animals and fun foods you can purchase while you are there.

While it is still warm outside, it is always a fan favorite to rake together leaves and jump in them. Take cute pictures, eat delicious snacks and bond together with your friends and family. Make some carmel apples with fun decorations on them, kettle corn, or hot apple cider to add a nice “fall effect” to your weekends.

Try to pick a sunny day and go apple picking. While it may not seem like the most fun thing to do on your Saturday morning, it is always a good family bonding activity and you end up with delicious apples that can be used in so many ways. Lynd’s Fruit Farm in Pataskala is always a good choice to go and buy nice and ripe delicious apples. You can make apple pie, apple cider, carmel apples and many other varieties of things with just one fruit!

Watch scary movies. Not only will it get you in the mood for Halloween, it will add excitement and thrills to your weekends! Some personal favorite Halloween movies to watch are the “Scream” series by Wes Craven, any of the “Halloween” series with Michael Myers by John Carpenter. Another one of my favorites is “Friday the Thirteenth” by Sean Cunningham.

Last, but not least, go trick-or-treating! Buy a costume, get some friends together and go enjoy yourselves. Go all out, buy some crazy costumes and have fun.