Pumpkins are back, apple cider is flowing, and flannels are appearing which can only mean one thing — fall is upon us. State College transforms during the fall months; you no longer have to worry about getting a backpack sweat stain and the weather is perfect for football. Fall is easily the best time of year in State College, and there are many ways you can take advantage of the cooler weather. If you’re in search for a pumpkin that doesn’t come  spiced, or a hayride that you don’t need a date for, we have you covered.

Way Fruit Farm

When people think of fall they probably picture pumpkins. However, the apples cannot be neglected. Way Fruit Farm offers a variety of homegrown fruits to enjoy and fall festivals almost every weekend in October. You can pick pumpkins, enjoy a hayride out to the patch, or step inside for a sip of delicious apple cider.

Penn State Arboretum

For those who can’t drive, the Arboretum is here to solve your pumpkin problems. Every year the Arboretum hosts a pumpkin carving contest and the results are put on display. On October 9 at 1 p.m. the Arboretum will begin giving out pumpkins for free to those who want to participate. Although there will be many, the event is first come first serve and the line can get quite long.

Wasson Farm Festival 

The Wasson Farm is a short drive out of State College and can easily satisfy all your fall needs. Complete with pumpkins to pick, animals to pet, and apple cider to sip, you’ll be leaving with your perfect fall fix. Stock up on all your pumpkin baked goods so you’ll never run out. Just be sure to hide them from your roommates.

Farmer’s Wife Fall Fest

The farmer’s wife may not be there but there will be a ton of fall activities to enjoy. Every Friday, Saturday and Sunday until October 9th you can enjoy antique tractors, petting zoo, mini corn maze and hayrides to the pumpkin patch. Bring a date and you never know what will happen because in the wise words of Kenny Chesney, “she thinks my tractors sexy.”

There are so many ways to enjoy the fall weather and festivities in and around State College this time of year, you just have to find them.