At Tufts, the Fall semester isn't just about crisp air and colorful leaves—it's a season packed with traditions that bring the campus together. From Thursday night Bingo to the many events hosted by TUSC (Tufts University Social Collective), these moments help make Tufts feel like a close-knit community for students. While the beautiful campus certainly adds to the charm, it's the vibrant events that truly create lasting memories and one’s that I will remember beyond my time at Tufts.
A big Fall Tufts event that I have been going to ever since I got to Tufts has been Fall Fest. This happens annually in the Fall and is on one of the quads at Tufts. From games, prizes, crafts, live music and so many food options to choose from this is a great way to come together for Tufts students and have a great time. This year, Fall Fest was in early September, the first week we got back and there were so many food trucks there from Bon Me, The Taco Dude, Tenoch, Dylan and Pete’s, The Chicken and Rice Guys, Cookie Monstah, and Roxy’s Grilled Cheese. What I love most about Fall Fest is the local food trucks that are a part of this event. The weather has typically been great too the past few years and I always have such a wonderful time with my friends at Fall Fest.
Another really fun event that happens in the fall is Homecoming! Since I am an international student, I didn’t know how big of a deal homecoming was before I came to college, but this is such a fun day and there is always so much going on! Homecoming is a day-long celebration at Tufts that is composed of so many events to help get students excited about the upcoming football game happening at Ellis Oval (Tufts' football field). This day is all about being a Jumbo and cheering on for the Tufts football team. This year, the game happened in the second week of September and apart from the various celebrations that go on at different places, TUSC hosted one too. This year Tufts hosted a Homecoming Block Party in collaboration with the Tufts Community Union (Tufts Senate) and this had food trucks, music (a live DJ) and games. The entire campus was electric as students decked out in Tufts gear filled the stadium to cheer on the Jumbos. The game itself kept everyone on the edge of their seat, with Tufts defeating Bowdoin College 23-21. The sense of pride and school spirit during Homecoming is infectious—everyone is there to support the team, but also to celebrate being a part of the Tufts community and enjoy the game!
Another fun thing that people can do in the fall is apple picking! There are so many orchards in Massachusetts and New Hampshire. Last year, Tufts organized an apple picking trip to an orchard, however this was a very popular event, so tickets sold out within minutes! They have transportation to and from the orchard, and they plan the entire thing very well!
With Halloween just around the corner, there’s no doubt that TUSC will have plenty of fun activities lined up for students. From spooky-themed events to festive gatherings, there’s always something happening to bring students together. These are just a few of the events that make fall at Tufts so special. Personally, one of my favorite things to do during the fall is to simply relax on Prez Lawn, surrounded by the brilliant colors of the changing leaves and soak in the beauty of the season.