Falling into the Season: Fun Fall Activities from a Raleigh Local
One of the best things about being born and raised in a capital city like Raleigh is knowing all the hidden gems around town. Luckily, since I have lived near NC State University for the past 20 years, I feel pretty qualified to share some of my favorite ways to spend the spooky season right around campus!
- The North Carolina State Fair (October 16th-26th)
I was shocked to learn that some of my closest friends have never been to the NC State Fair. I guess it makes sense since a lot of them are out-of-state students or from farther-off cities like Charlotte, but I grew up going to the fair every single year. It is easily the best fall activity and one of my favorite things to do with friends, family, or even as a date night.
The fair offers a variety of tickets and has something for everyone; adrenaline junkies can go all in with unlimited rides, while food lovers (like myself) can stick to sampling fried anything and support local vendors. There is even a special day when you can get in just by donating canned food instead of buying a ticket, which is such a fun way to save money and give back. (Pro tip: go on a weekday night because weekends get packed fast.) As Reem Hasan, a fourth-year Communication major, put it, “Fall is my favorite time of the year…ever since I became a student at NC State, the fair is a tradition my friends do every year.”
https://www.ncagr.gov/divisions/ncstatefair
- Page Farms (September 20th-October 31st)
Nothing says fall like pumpkins, and there is no better way to carve or paint one than picking it yourself. I grew up going to Page Farms, and even when we went on elementary school field trips, it was always the highlight of the season. The farm is still just as fun now as an adult with pumpkin patches, hayrides, corn mazes, farm animals, and more. Tickets are usually $16, but if you go Tuesday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. they are discounted to $14!
- Treat or Defeat (October 15th, 7-8:30 PM)
Lastly, Treat or Defeat is a Halloween event happening right on campus. Hosted by the University Activities Board, it will take place on October 15th from 7:00–8:30 p.m. in Witherspoon Auditorium. The evening will include a Halloween-themed game show with trivia, challenges, and prizes, giving students a fun and festive way to celebrate the season. If you can’t make it on this date, the University Activities Board will be hosting additional events throughout the month, so be sure to check the link below to stay up to date!
https://www.instagram.com/ncstateuab
These are just a few of my favorite recommendations as October kicks off and the best season gets underway. Whether you are carving pumpkins, snacking on fried Oreos at the fair, or celebrating the season right on campus, fall around Raleigh always has plenty of ways to make the season memorable!
Written by Katrina Chafalovitch, Criminology and Science, Technology and Society Major, Department of Sociology and Anthropology Student Ambassador
