Fall is a time of change. The weather gets colder, the leaves fall from the trees, and summer traditions are retired for the year as new ones are once more embraced. Whether it’s raking leaves, trick-or-treating, or travelling to visit relatives for Thanksgiving, every family has their own traditions for this time of year. I’ve always been extraordinarily fond of pumpkin carving. Carving fun faces or symbols on two or three pumpkins and setting them out on my porch to glow during the night is just as enjoyable now as when I was a kid. It’s just as much fun getting my hands, and my table, messy while cleaning out the mushy insides of the pumpkin. These reasons, along with the feeling of accomplishment after finishing a carving I’m truly proud of, are why pumpkin carving is undoubtedly my favorite fall tradition.

I asked some other students what their favorite traditions and memories were. Sydney Emard, Junior, said, “Pumpkin carving and my annual Halloween date night with my boyfriend.” She added on soon after, saying, “Any of the rainy days where I can lay in bed and watch Netflix all day.” While the sunshine oddly seems to be sticking around a bit longer than usual, no doubt we’ll be seeing rain soon enough.

Nick Sherwin, Senior, had many thoughts on the topic. He said, “I love football, good to see that coming up again. And I usually have family over for Halloween.” He continued to share his favorite memories as well, “I love the smell and crispness of the air. Maybe it makes me think of Halloween and family and friends. It’s just a good time.”

Finally, Gavin Young, Junior, said: “I’m most looking forward to the weather change and being able to look around and see all the Halloween decorations.” He continued on, “Spending time with my family and friends and being able to see how passionate everyone is about this time of year.”

Whether it’s the weather, spending time with family, or any other of the numerous activities that come with this time of year, everyone has something they love about the Fall. It may mark the beginning of a new school year, but it does not at all mean an end to fun adventures with friends and family.