As the weather ushers in my favorite season, I like to experience all that Champaign-Urbana has to offer. Amazing apple orchards, clubs dedicated to October and numerous Halloween parties make this college town that I call home an exciting place to be during this season. Not to mention there are a few green tricks anyone, anywhere can follow to enjoy what will hopefully be a long fall season.

 

A few of my favorite fall things...

 

I like hot apple cider, and cool Jack-o-lanterns. Red leaves on tall trees, and long sleeved jackets. Apples for bobbing, and scarecrows galore. These are a few of my favorite fall things!

 

You get the point. Fall is definitely the most inspiring season. Inspiring for fashion, food, decorations -- pretty much anything. Here are a few green tips on how to enjoy the season in Champaign-Urbana.

 

1) Check out Curtis Orchard. This 80-acre farm boosts some of the more delicious apples, has an adorable cafe, and allows you to pick your own pumpkins. There is no better treat than hot apple cider on a bitter day during the fall season, and carving pumpkins can be fun for the whole family or with a roommate. On the weekends there are fun family activities, such as face painting and pony rides, and sometimes live bands. Their apples are in season this time of year, and gathering a group of friends to go is a great way to spend an afternoon. The best part -- you will be supporting a local Champaign farm just by buying a delicious apple or decorative pumpkin.

 

2) Start thrift store shopping. There is no better time to take fashion risks or experiment than during the fall. Instead of being worried about being too hot, like during the summer, or too cold, like during the winter, the fall allows you to celebrate your personal fashion style. Thrift stores are a great way to experiment with clothing, and also a great way to make a smashing Halloween costume. You never know what you will find and how you can put it to use. You will also be supporting local stores, and helping to recycle clothing. The Champaign-Urbana area has a great number of thrift stores that can inspire your inner fashionista or Halloween needs.

 

3) Make sure you experience the Urbana farmer's markets. As farmer markets are beginning to close, make sure you get there to enjoy the wonderful assortment of fruit and veggies while it lasts. There is no better way to support your local economy or an easier way to go green. Make sure you pick up some fall favorites like squash, corn, sweet potatoes and more! 

 

4) Join an eco-friendly club or a fall club. So you can join an eco-friendly club anytime during the year, but why not start this season? There is no better time to be outdoors, and there is no better time to work to preserve our outdoors. Clubs such as the Students for Environmental Concerns, CORE, or October Lovers are all dedicated to preserving and enjoying what our environment has to offer. October Lovers is an especially interesting club dedicated solely to the month of October. Meet fellow students, experience the season and be green because you can!