Fall is officially here, and with plenty of seasonal activities, local spots to explore and ways to embrace the colder weather, there are endless opportunities to make the most of the season in Bexley and beyond.
While the colder mornings and fluctuating Ohio weather might feel like a reason to hate this time of year, take it as an opportunity to embrace everything Autumn has to offer.
Ins
Watching movies at the Drexel
There’s something about watching a movie in an actual theater that makes the experience more special.
The Drexel Theatre offers a variety of movies, including both new releases, such as “Primetime” and “Sense and Sensibility,” and screenings of older films during this Halloween, including “The Exorcist” and “A Bay of Blood.” Grab a friend, pick a showing and make a night of it.
All show times can be found on Drexel’s website.
Soup of any kind
Soup season is also officially here, and there is no wrong way to celebrate it; potato soup, tomato soup, broccoli cheddar soup, and chili are all acceptable. Few things are better after a chilly walk to class than a warm bowl of soup, especially with a grilled cheese.
Seasonal playlists
Curating a playlist to coincide with the season is the best way to get into the spirit. Pick your favorite fall picture to set as the cover, and build your ideal fall playlist around it.
Trying unique fall flavors
Pumpkin spice may dominate the seasonal menu, but fall has plenty of other flavors worth trying; apple, cinnamon, maple and caramel are all underrated and worth a try. Kittie’s Cakes on Main Street offers a range of fall drinks, including the salted maple latte, a delicious alternative to the usual pumpkin flavors.
Buying a new book at Gramercy Books
Once you’ve secured your seasonal drink, find something to read alongside it. Gramercy Books, the independent bookstore connected to Kittie’s Cakes, is a great place to browse for your next read.
It’s unrealistic to set an ambitious reading goal in the middle of the semester, but picking up a new book to read throughout the season is a great way to integrate reading into your routine.
Decorating your space for fall
Your residence hall room deserves to participate in the season, too. A few mini pumpkins, cozy blankets, leaf garlands, or string lights can make your space feel warmer without a complete makeover. Add a seasonal candle if permitted by your residence hall, switch up your phone wallpaper, or put together a small fall display on your desk.
As the seasons change, it’s the perfect time to also switch up your routine. While fall is all about getting cozy, that doesn’t mean spending every free moment inside or falling into the same old habits.
Embracing the season means finding ways to enjoy your surroundings, make your space feel like home and prioritize yourself.
Just as there are new things to welcome this fall, there are also a few things worth leaving behind.
Outs
Waiting for an invitation to do something
Stop waiting for someone else to make the first move. If you want to go on a walk, study at the library or check out a new coffee shop; you don’t need to wait until your friends are available.
While spending time with other people is great, you shouldn’t have to put your plans on hold just because everyone’s schedules don’t line up.
Take the initiative, invite someone along if you’d like and don’t be afraid to go alone. You might discover that the best parts of your week are the things you decide to do for yourself.
High screen time
Phones make it easy to stay connected, keep track of assignments and manage a busy college schedule, but it’s easy to let screen time take over more of your day than you realize. When scrolling starts interfering with studying, sleep, or quality time with friends, it might be time to take a step back.
Overly basic Halloween costumes
Halloween is the perfect excuse to get creative, so why settle for a costume you’ve seen a dozen times before? This year, consider something a little more niche. The goal is to wear something that makes you feel confident, shows off your personality and gives you an excuse to have fun with the holiday.
Open-toed shoes
It’s time to give your sandals and flip-flops a break. Swap them out for boots, sneakers, or another pair of comfortable shoes that can handle the colder temperatures. Your feet will thank you when you’re walking to class in the morning, and you’ll have plenty of opportunities to bring your favorite summer shoes back when the weather warms up again.
Fall doesn’t have to mean saying goodbye to everything you loved about summer; instead, let it be an opportunity to try new local spots, step out of your comfort zone and make the semester more fun.
Whether you’re trying a new drink at a local cafe, planning a movie night, or adding cozy decorations to your dorm, the best parts of the season often come from small luxuries. Embrace the cooler weather, get creative and make the most of the months ahead.
