Fall has returned to Happy Valley, folks.

Many would argue that this is the best part of the school year. Football and tailgating are back, the leaves are changing colors, and the weather feels just right.

As people settle in, the Penn State festivities begin.

Fall has a special place in Penn Staters’ hearts, and to celebrate, Onward State’s draft beat is back to pick their favorite fall things in State College. The dynamic trio of Jamie Lynch, Brian Kriley (questionable drafting skills), and Holden Mostofsky has returned.

That said, let’s look at the board to see the selections for the best things about fall in State College.

Now, let’s hear from our staff to explain the reasoning behind their picks.

Team Holden

The tables have turned this time, and I landed the first pick in the draft. Of course, I had to take fall tailgating. Nothing beats a crisp 50-degree fall tailgate with the colors changing and fun with all your friends. Penn State football culture is amazing. No one does it better.

Speaking of 50-degree weather, my second selection was weather itself.

Fall has the best weather by far; it’s not too hot or cold, and it’s great to wear comfortable clothes that aren’t too layered. Walking and feeling the chill breeze always feels great.

My third selection was THON fundraising events/canning weekends. The THON 5K and 100 Days Until THON Countdown are some of the best days of the year, and it really brings the Penn State community together.

Right after the third selection, I immediately thought of pumpkin-flavored/spiced things and was glad it was still up for grabs. I love pumpkin foods and drinks, and I know how popular they are in State College.

Going to a local coffee or pastry shop and maybe studying or enjoying the weather with your friends is a great vibe. It’s super relaxing and captures the East Coast college-town vibe we have.

My next selection was Homecoming Weekend because, again, who doesn’t love seeing the Penn State community come together?

Alumni come back, the parade is here, it’s a great football and tailgate weekend, and it’s when Penn State gets to celebrate its culture.

My final selection was an absolute steal, which my fellow draft beat members acknowledged.

I had a feeling Jamie and Brian wouldn’t think of this, but luckily, I did. Friendsgiving is a really fun night where all your closest people can gather for a great dinner. It’s always a good time, and it’s a great surprise to see what everyone brings to the table right before the break.

Team Jamie

Halloweekend is one of the best weekends of the year, so I was stoked to grab it with my first pick. I usually don’t pick out my costume until the morning of, but maybe I’ll be more proactive this year (I won’t).

In the second down, I chose a Northeast fall staple: fall festivals.

Nothing beats pumpkin picking, corn mazes, apple cider donuts, and a good band, and these festivals encompass it all. I’ll admit I haven’t checked out many of the ones State College has to offer, but I’m going to make it my mission to explore the variety of events this fall.

Watching Penn State hockey at Pegula Ice Arena is one of the most exciting parts about being a student. The Roar Zone is electric, and being part of that atmosphere is an experience second to none. Holden and Brian both wanted to pick hockey with their next selections, so I’ll consider it one of the steals of the draft.

Keeping with the sports theme, fall road trips to various colleges are elite. Whether it be visiting a friend at another school or following Penn State football to its away games, blasting music with your friends while exploring the country is a uniquely college experience.

In the fifth round, I chose hiking trails. Nothing screams fall like crunching on leaves while walking behind the Arboretum or up Mount Nittany.

And lastly, I chose making soup with my final selection. After a chilly day of walking to classes, few things beat cozying up with a warm, homemade concoction.

Team Brian

With the snake draft format, I was pretty happy to get the last pick. Despite criticism from my fellow draft beat members for taking “watching the Nittany Lions in the NFL” with my first pick, I still stand by my decision.

There’s little joy greater than watching Parker Washington or Tyler Warren dominate on Sundays. Hopefully we’ll see Drew Allar get his chance soon.

On the spin back, I was glad to take fall foliage. The leaves changing color in fall is truly a great sight, especially in central Pennsylvania.

Hoodie season is upon us, and there’s no greater way to support the Nittany Lions than wearing a Penn State hoodie, making it my third pick.

For my fourth pick, I chose the limited-time Berkey Creamery fall flavors. I’m an ice cream fanatic, and the fall flavors make it that much sweeter.

My fifth pick goes along with my second. The Arboretum is always a sight to behold, but it’s even better in the fall. As a townie, I remember going to the Arboretum Pumpkin Festival as a kid and having a great time.

My final selection was Halloween decorating. I think Halloween decor makes the fall vibes much better, and I was glad to snag it with my last pick.