Fall has finally come and that means it’s time to break out the flannels and sweaters. But those aren’t the only things that fall brings. Fall in Northwest Arkansas means pumpkin patches, community events, hiking, and much, much more. Below is a guide to just a few things that are happening this fall:
- Pumpkin Patches
Pumpkin patches not only offer many fall activities, such as corn mazes and hayrides, but also provide a time to dress up and have fun with friends. Additionally, they are an often inexpensive way to try multiple activities without having to go to multiple different places. The only downside can be the travel. Farmland Adventures is an hour away in Springdale and McGarrah Farms is also an hour away near Pea Ridge. However, if one is willing to travel, they are in for a treat.
- John Brown University Events
JBU has many events in the fall and all of them can offer a great night of fun right here on campus. The school is putting on “The Addams Family” Oct. 27-28 and Nov. 2-4. Student Events and Activities is hosting Mock Rock, an annual lip-syncing competition that will performed on Nov. 11. Also, in addition to the normal sporting events that JBU offers, there is the annual Toilet Paper Game, which is taking place on Oct. 27. During the Toilet Paper Game, students release thousands of rolls of Charmin onto the court once the JBU men’s basketball team makes their first home basket of the season.
- Siloam Events
Siloam Springs has countless events going on every week. On Saturdays, they have Shoptober Saturdays, where patrons can shop, eat, and enjoy live music downtown. The last farmer’s market of the year is coming up on Oct. 14 in Memorial Park and will have special activities for kids. Another Downtown event is the annual Downtown Trick or Treat. Members of the community can either participate by attending the event or by handing out candy. This event will take place on Tuesday, Oct. 31 from 4-6 pm.
- Outdoor Activities
Fall isn’t just a time for going to different events, it’s also a time for connecting with nature. Northwest Arkansas offers numerous trailheads and camping sights. Beaver Lake in Eureka Springs, Ark. has multiple camping sites with some even offering a game room and swimming areas. There are options for both the beginner and hardcore hiker. Big Bluff trail is 6.5 miles roundtrip but offers a unique sight and beautiful foliage along the trail. Meanwhile, Magnolia Falls trail is 2.1 miles total and ends in a waterfall spilling into a dazzling turquoise pool.
- Art and Theatre
Northwest Arkansas has many opportunities to appreciate the arts in the fall. Crystal Bridges in Bentonville, Ark. is home not only to five centuries of American art but is also set on 120 acres of land which hold four miles of various walking trails. The Walton Arts Center in Fayetteville, Ark. also has various opportunities to enjoy the arts, including concerts by Johnny Cash and a screening of the Rocky Horror Picture Show.