Turn new leaf with these Rutgers-related autumn activities
As summer says its final goodbye and we enter into, arguably, the best season of the year, fall arrives with its crisp air, golden leaves and pumpkin spice galore. But with autumn being so fleeting, there's no time to waste! You've got to make the most of every cozy, sun-soaked fall moment.
Whether you're a first-year or a seasoned Scarlet Knight, here are some of the top fall activities to dive into this season.
Basement shows
Nothing says autumn like ending a day with local live music and the nippy chill in the air as you step into Rutgers' underground music scene.
Basement shows are a staple here, happening throughout the weekends, typically Thursday to Sunday. Popular venues like The Room and Sunday School host these intimate gigs, where you'll catch some of your fellow students performing. For updates, follow the venues on Instagram. This is one New Brunswick tradition you won't want to miss.
Hiking trips
Fall is a great time to explore nature, and the Rutgers Ecological Preserve, located on Livingston campus, is a fantastic place to escape the hustle of student life without going far.
If you want to venture a little further, Sourland Mountain Preserve is around a 30-minute drive, offering many different recreational opportunities. Or, take a scenic drive out to the Delaware Water Gap, where you can take on a variety of stunning trails for every level of hiker, all with breathtaking views.
Even something as simple as a short walk between the Cook and Douglass campuses this time of time can lead to beautiful discoveries.
Football games
When you think fall, you think football, and Rutgers games bring the excitement to a whole new level.
Whether you're tailgating with friends or cheering in the student section, the energy is electric. Rutgers' school spirit comes alive in the fall, and you'll want to be a part of the scarlet sea that unites in the SHI Stadium on Busch campus. Check the Rutgers Athletics website for game schedules, and mark your calendar for the next home game against Wisconsin on Saturday.
Trader Joe's pumpkin extravaganza
It's no secret that Trader Joe's goes all out for autumn, and if you're a fan of anything pumpkin, this place is your paradise. From pumpkin spice cookies to seasonal drinks, there's no shortage of fall-themed delights. Grab your friends, decorate your dorms, throw on some tunes and make it a full-on food-tasting party.
Snyder's Farm Fall Festival
Located in Somerset, NJ, Snyder's Farm Fall Festival is an all-in-one autumn adventure.
Running every weekend through October 27 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., this festival has everything you could possibly want: apple, pumpkin, sunflower picking, hayrides, corn mazes, food trucks and more. For $24 per ticket, it's a full day of fun and festive memories with your friends and family.
Spirit Halloween
If Halloween is your thing, then a visit to Spirit Halloween is a must. These famous pop-up stores are packed with animatronic scares, creepy decorations and every kind of costume you can imagine. With only about 10 to 12 weeks of being open each year, don't miss your chance to explore — and maybe even get some costume inspiration for Halloween.
New Brunswick's Oktoberfest
On Sunday, head to Monument Square Park for New Brunswick's annual Oktoberfest, a day of live music, games, food and activities — all with free admission! From noon to 7 p.m., enjoy yummy treats and a festive atmosphere. Whether you're sipping apple cider or trying out some traditional folk dances, it's a perfect way to spend a fall Sunday.
New Jersey's fall foliage never disappoints, and with Rutgers nestled in the heart of the state, you're in an ideal spot to enjoy everything the season has to offer. So, don't let autumn pass you by — make sure to get out and enjoy it as much as you can with any of these leisurely festivities!
