As the semester progresses, the leaves begin to paint the trees in vibrant shades of orange, red and yellow. Wardrobes shift to warmer layers, and the scent of pumpkin spice fills the air.
With the change in weather comes a shift in seasonal activities. Summer pools close, and lake days wind down as fall festivities take over.
This new season offers something for everyone, with events ranging from sports to harvest festivals. Below are eight enjoyable fall-related pastimes.
Knoxville’s Botanical Gardens Fall Festival
Knoxville’s Botanical Gardens is hosting its annual fall event on Oct. 27. This event creates a scenic view of newly-sprouted plants that showcase colors that match the season.
Not only is the garden landscape on display, but there will also be hayrides, music, food and crafts.
Deep Well Farm
For those individuals who purchase tickets, Deep Well Farm will have pumpkin patches, corn mazes and hayrides.
The pumpkin patch tickets include farm animals, slides, picnic areas and a duck pond. It is the total fall package about 30 minutes from Knoxville.
Neyland football
Nothing says fall has arrived more than a classic football game in Neyland Stadium. The college football tradition is known for its vibrant atmosphere and passionate fans. Autumn brings a perfect blend of sports culture and nostalgia.
Make sure to get tickets, as the next home game is Oct. 12 against the Florida Gators.
Maple Lane Farms
Another cozy farm is located just outside of Knoxville. While enjoying fall activities like the pumpkin patch, corn maze and hayrides, the Country Barn Store has several items on sale.
These items include corn stalks, candy and other seasonal trinkets. This is a perfect opportunity to enhance your apartment or dorm with fall-themed decorations from this location. Make the most of your visit to the pumpkin patch by picking one to take home and carve.
Visit a Halloween store
Halloween is a major event at the University of Tennessee, as students typically make this a three-day occasion.
It is never too early to embrace the start of the fright fest by looking at all the thrilling decorations and fun costumes. One Halloween store is Spirit Halloween, which is a 10-minute drive from campus.
Haunted Knoxville ghost tours
By participating in the Haunted Knoxville ghost tours, you can get scared while learning about Knoxville’s haunted history.
This paranormal adventure tour is not for amateurs. It is one of America’s first hands-on ghost tour as people undergo training before investigating the city.
Tours are starting as early as Sept. 20. Check out their website for more information and dates.
New Harvest Park Outdoor Farmers’ Market
Another entertaining fall activity is Knoxville’s local farmers’ market. The produce and comfort foods make the fall season memorable.
This market offers locally-grown items that change with the seasons. Some perfect pairings for the upcoming season include honey, baked goods, jams and coffee.
They will be holding events throughout September every Thursday at New Harvest Park.
Marble Springs Fall Frolic
On Oct. 19, Marble Springs is hosting a big-time fall gathering to inspire people to take on the Halloween spirit. Here, you can rekindle your youth by enjoying trick-or-treating and delicious candy.