Look for more than just pumpkins this fall

By Kaity Kempf | LTVN Reporter/Anchor

As of Sept. 22, it is autumn, and pumpkin-spiced lattes aren’t the only thing you should be looking forward to. Here’s a list of some exciting things to look forward to this fall.

1. Sweater Weather

With fall comes cooler temperatures, and living in the Texas heat, that is music to the ears. It’s not too hot nor too cold, and it’s arguably the best season for weather. And with the colors of the leaves changing, it is also objectively the prettiest season.

According to the Almanac, September and October 2021 will be cooler than normal with rainfall above normal, so make sure to pull out all of your long sleeve shirts and pants for a cozy and fashionable autumn.

2. Football and Hockey Season

Football and hockey season are here, and the Bears are living up to the reputation. Baylor football is undefeated with back-to-back wins, and the stadium is full of fans waiting to see more. As of this semester, Baylor has an ice hockey club team that competes against the teams of many other reputable colleges in Texas and beyond; the team is already proving itself to be a worthy opponent in its first season after winning its first game. Also, we can’t forget about Baylor Homecoming and all of its festivities in October.

3. Holidays

Fall is full of many holidays that we know and love. You can find yourself and others celebrating Thanksgiving, Dia de los Muertos, Halloween, Diwali, Oktoberfest, Yom Kippur and so many more. Now is the time to pull out all of your decorations and surround yourself with family, friends and fun.

4. Haunted Houses

Central Texas is home to some of the best haunted houses. Under new ownership, Waco Haunted House is back open this October. Be ready to get your fright on and brave the American Scare Grounds. Who doesn’t like a little thrill?

5. Harvest Festivals

Fall isn’t fall unless you are going to corn mazes, hayrides, pumpkin patches and other themed events. It’s family-friendly and the best way to get out of the house and into the autumn spirit. Channel your inner autumn with an iconic pumpkin photoshoot.

6. Outdoor Activities

With the temperatures cooling down, now is the best time to hike, pick your favorite fruits, jump into fallen leaves and camp in the wilderness. A fan favorite place to hike is Cameron Park; it is beautiful and makes for a relaxing walk.

7. Seasonal Drinks

There is no way I couldn’t mention the fall seasonal drinks coming back to all of the local coffee shops. Autumn is the best time to enjoy a cup of coffee, tea or cider. Some popular choices are pumpkin-spiced lattes, apple cider, chai tea, hot chocolate and really anything warm. Can’t make it at home? Don’t fret, Common Grounds has your back.

8. New Movies and Seasons of TV Shows

Fall is often the time when new movies and new seasons of your favorite TV shows come out. Here are some movies and seasons that are coming out this fall: “I Know What You Did Last Summer,” “Hawkeye,” “Gossip Girl,” “You” (Season 3) and “The Baby-sitters Club” (Season 2). Make sure you find out when your favorites release so you don’t miss that first episode.

9. Extra Hour of Sleep

OK … this one is probably the best, especially for us college students. What do we lack? Sleep. What does fall give us? An extra hour of sleep. Thank you, sleep gods. Maybe we won’t fall asleep in class anymore.

What are you most excited about this fall? I will personally be binge-watching the entire series of “Twilight” — no criticism at this time.

Kaity Kempf is a senior from Temple, Texas. She is on her way to graduating with a major in journalism and concentration in advertising, as well as a minor in french. This is her third year working with LTVN, and first time being managing editor after years of reporting and anchoring. She also works with the local broadcast news station, KWTX News 10. She is excited to cover all things Baylor and close out her senior year with her team.