The start of a new school year can be stressful, but favorite aspects of the fall season help many Sidwell students stay motivated. However, what students love about fall varies greatly.
The Sidwell community shared their favorite fall traditions and pastimes through a poll.
Weather and Vibes
When asked about her favorite overall element about fall, freshman Angie Spadafora argued it was the best season “because of the weather, vibes and school [not being] too difficult yet.”
Freshman Joanna Bocker commented on the “not too chilly but not too hot” fall weather, bringing sweater weather with the “best and cutest options.”
Sidwell’s Fall Activities
Although transitioning into a new academic year can be challenging, Sidwell Friends offers plenty of fall activities to unite students. Sophomore Olivia Sisson said that her favorite Sidwell fall activity is homecoming, saying that “rain or shine, everyone is fun to be around, and it is great to see people and watch your friends play in games.” Freshman Nathaniel Bohlen added to this, saying that the games also inspire plenty of school spirit and give students opportunities to root for their classmates.
A highlight for freshmen this season was the trip to Butler’s Orchard in September, where students bonded over activities and indulged in the ever-popular apple cider donuts.
Fall Fun Outside of School
Students also participate in fall activities outside of school, such as apple or pumpkin picking and baking to make delicious fall treats. Markoff’s Haunted Forest is also a popular outing spot as it puts students into the Halloween spirit.
For sports enthusiasts, fall marks the start of exciting athletic seasons. Sophomore Petra Kawesi-Mukooza mentioned enjoying NCAA games, while Nathaniel Bohlen highlighted watching MLB playoffs as a personal favorite.
Fall Favorite TV
Fall-themed television shows also give students a sense of comfort after a long school day. A few shows students mentioned as their fall favorites were Brooklyn 99, Peaky Blinders, Only Murders in the Building, Goosebumps (2023), Gossip Girl, Pretty Little Liars, and Vampire Diaries. However, the most popular was the famed Gilmore Girls series.
Freshman Clara McQuaid shared that her go-to shows include Friday Night Lights and Only Murders in the Building. She continued by explaining that fall is the season of football and “despite the title [Only Murders in the Building], the characters are comforting and funny, and have really dynamic relationships with each other.”
Halloween films also allow students to get into the fall spirit. The Nightmare Before Christmas and Hocus Pocus are the most favored movies among the Sidwell student population due to their nostalgia and spooky aspects, allowing them to be paired “perfectly with a late rainy night” as one student stated.
Halloween and Thanksgiving: The Season of Celebration
With fall come two highly anticipated holidays: Halloween and Thanksgiving. Many students favor Halloween for the chance to dress up, while others cherish Thanksgiving for the time spent with family and friends. One student shared, “I rarely get to see [my family and friends], so Thanksgiving is my favorite because it’s more fun to celebrate holidays with people you love.”
Favorite Fall Treats and Drinks
Fall is also a time to enjoy delicious seasonal treats. Popular choices among students include apple cider donuts, apple pie, candy corn, cinnamon rolls, and pumpkin pie. Freshman Sienna Morigi recommends an iced pumpkin cream chai as the perfect fall refreshment.
Making the Most of Fall
With a variety of favorite activities, media, treats, and traditions, the Sidwell community embraces fall as a season of comfort amidst the busy months of September, October, and November. Whether through cozy television shows, spirited events, or festive outings, students are making the most of the season and enjoying all it has to offer.
