Let the festivities begin! After an unfortunate past year, it is time for a more normal-feeling autumn, and that begins with participating in the season’s traditions. With several activities back in full swing with precautions, we can now enjoy our fall favorites. Listed below are the top five festivities that are must dos during this terrific time of year. 

#5 Decorating

For some families, decorating their houses with seasonal items, such as scarecrows in the lawn and carved pumpkins on the porch in the autumn is a tradition. Putting festive decorations outside and around the house is a fun way to express creativity and hang out with family and friends. Maybe your decorations will be the talk of the neighborhood, such as the house at 333 Church Street in West Chicago.

#4 Clothes Shopping

Fall is in the air, which means it is sweater season! Whether digging up those boots or cozy, knit clothes, many use the time as an opportunity to clean out their closets. With winter around the corner, this means more shopping! Our favorite shops for fall apparel are Target and TJ-Maxx. Plus, autumn provides an extra excuse for more flannels: how can you resist?

#3 Trick or Treating/Halloween

Whenever you think of fall, Halloween comes to mind first. Almost all families, no matter the age, participate in some sort of Halloween event. Families enjoy the Halloween holiday because there is something to do for everyone, from trick or treating for all ages, to gatherings and huge Halloween parties.

This year, trick-or-treating will take place on Sunday, October 31 from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. in West Chicago and Carol Stream, and from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. in Winfield. Check out some other local Halloween events below!

WeGo Spooky at Community High School (October 27 from 4:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.)

Trunk or Treat at the West Chicago Public Library (October 30 from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.)

#2 Fall Foods

One of the most iconic things about fall is the food. Almost all autumnal foods have pumpkin in them; so much so that if you love pumpkin, then you will adore this season. Some favorite foods at this time of year include apple pie, pumpkin pie, pumpkin bread, apple strudel and many more!

Of course, many coffee shops roll out a number of autumnal flavors, including Starbucks’ popular Pumpkin Spice Latte. Check out reporter Melissa Pani’s review of Starbucks’ fall flavors for more ideas.

#1 Pumpkin Patch 

Ultimately, autumn is not complete without a visit to the local pumpkin patch. Whether it be with friends or family, the pumpkin patch is the perfect place to gather and take part in festive activities such as the corn maze, hayrides, haunted houses, and pumpkin picking! There is always something for everyone! Of course, you cannot forget the delicious apple cider donuts and caramel apples too!

Favorites nearby include Sonny Acres, which features amusement-style rides in addition to a haunted barn and trail, or, if you are willing to go on a bit of a drive, Kuiper’s Family Farm has its own orchard where you can pick apples.

Check out the vox pop below to hear what other WEGO students and staff below love about the fall season, and share any favorites we might have missed in the comment section!