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Top 10 ways to get into the fall spirit

Wrap up in a cozy blanket, turn on some football and drink a pumpkin spice latte — happy fall, Hoos

<p>Anna Mason is a Top 10 writer for The Cavalier Daily.</p>

Anna Mason is a Top 10 writer for The Cavalier Daily.

1. Break out the wardrobe

As the temperature drops below 70 degrees, open up that closet and toss your tank tops and shorts to the back. It’s all about denim and oversized sweaters now. It’s finally boot season, so keep your feet warm with fluffy socks and boots of every variety. Fall wardrobes are optimal for staying cozy and always on-trend.

2. Heat up those drinks

In the summertime, iced drinks are all the rage. Milkshakes or iced lattes were essential to the hydration of students everywhere. It’s time for a switch to our favorite warm, autumnal beverages — pumpkin spice lattes for everyone. Other fall flavors include hot apple cider, cinnamon, caramel, hot chocolate and of course — traditional coffee. Warm up your insides so that going to and from class won’t feel as chilly as the thermometer makes it seem. 

3. Tune in for football 

No matter your team or their record, football season is in full swing. Monday and Thursday nights have a guaranteed study break time, and Sunday’s opportunities to stream football games are aplenty. Both the NFL and collegiate seasons are in high-gear, so make sure to root for the Hoos — even if your professional team isn’t doing so hot.

4. Halloween is not a one-day event — it’s a 31-day “Spooky Season” 

If you haven’t started planning your plethora of Halloween costumes and outfits for the upcoming weekends, it is definitely time. Decorate your room with pumpkins, ghosts and bowls of candy galore. Welcome fall by celebrating this iconic holiday — that class is unfortunately never canceled.

5. Go apple picking

Carter Mountain Orchard is only about a 20-minute drive away — that’s the beauty of living within view of the Appalachian Mountains. Apples are in season, so take your favorite pals, don some cute fall outfits and go pick some apples — don’t forget to grab a fresh apple cider while you’re up there. The sunset colors are even more vibrant when offset by the deep blue of the ridges at the top of Carter Mountain — ideal for enjoying amidst the crisp fall air, apple cider in hand.

6. Satisfy your inner kid — stomp on those fallen leaves

Make the walks around Grounds much more fun by enjoying the crunch of leaves. There are leaves everywhere, and the only way to top off the ambiance of a fall evening is with the sound of footsteps crunching dried, colorful leaves. If you’re feeling ambitious, find a rake and make a pile on the Lawn for you and all your friends.

7. Hiking trips are a must

There are a variety of hikes available for students — from sunrise hikes at Humpback Rock to stretches of the Appalachian Trail and Crabtree Falls — embrace your nature-loving side and find a group to make this excursion. It’s a fabulous way to get some exercise in and see the iconic Blue Ridge Mountains during the fall.

8. Explore Charlottesville’s community

Surrounded by a community of artists and local entrepreneurs, fall weekends are filled with bustling local farmer’s markets. Stock up on some fresh seasonal fruits and vegetables for the week, and taste-test a variety of pastries or fresh-pressed juices. You could also grab a bouquet of fresh flowers or a pumpkin for your living room table.

9. Find your favorite fall comfort food 

While fall-themed outfits and blankets can help keep the cold air at bay, hearty meals are the most important to keep you warm. Mashed potatoes, chicken, casseroles or pastas — any warm meal behind cold and foggy windows can highlight a perfect fall evening. Laughter and full bellies are what dinners are all about — especially in the coming months.

10. Pass your midterms and make it to Thanksgiving break

Fall break has come and gone, which means it is officially midterm season. Six weeks of classes have passed, so I know you can make it through seven more before Thanksgiving arrives. Push through and before you know it, you’ll be back home watching some highly-anticipated football on Black Friday — pumpkin pie not required, but definitely recommended. 

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