While many are holding on to that last bit of warm weather before the harsh realities of the new school year, like it or not, fall is here. For Brock students, it may feel like the season started with classes; campus is busy again, the leaves start changing and summer beach weekends are replaced with the search for something new to do.
From pumpkin patches to themed nights at wineries, there is plenty to do around Niagara as the autumn season begins.
Throughout September and October, farms, wineries and local organizations turn the region into a celebration of everything autumn. Here are a few ways to get into the fall spirit this year.
Get lost at Howell’s Pumpkin Patch
Howell’s Farm is bringing back its fall festivities for another season, making it an option for anyone looking for the quintessential pumpkin-patch experience.
Located in Fonthill, Howell’s offers more than just pumpkins and Instagram photos, with fall-themed events that began on Sept. 12., the farm is geared up to give the classic fall experience.
The farm is also packed full of attractions, including wagon rides, a corn maze, pedal go-karts, a bathtub train, a corn pool, a playground and a jump pad. Visitors can also pick their own wildflowers and stop for seasonal foods and drinks.
There are day pass tickets available for $14, giving entrance to the farm’s fall season running from September into November, giving students plenty of time to make the trip.
Pull out your sweaters for Ciders N’ Sweaters
If pumpkin patches aren’t your thing, a cozy afternoon at a Niagara vineyard might be.
The fourth annual Ciders N’ Sweaters Market put on by Little Hearts Market is coming to Ravine Vineyard Estate Winery on Oct. 18 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Last year, the fall market saw over 35 small Canadian vendors, also featuring Niagara wine, food and live music. Visitors can also take part in the market’s annual trick-or-treating activity for children.
Admission and parking are free, making it a great way for students to get into the fall spirit without breaking the bank. Grab your favourite sweater, bring some friends and spend an afternoon browsing local vendors while taking in the vineyard scenery.
Niagara Autumn Equinox Gathering & Mystical Market
For something a little different, Niagara’s Autumn Equinox Gathering & Mystical Market will take over Firemen’s Park in Niagara Falls on Oct. 17.
The free event runs from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and will feature local artisans, live music, workshops, food and family activities. It is inspired by Samhain folk traditions and includes an optional community celebration at noon.
While geared towards spiritual people, anyone can attend and enjoy the autumn festivities.
Get cozy at Henry of Pelham
If your idea of a perfect fall day is less corn maze and more local vendors, live music and wine, Henry of Pelham has you covered.
The St. Catharines winery is hosting its Cozy Fall Pop-Up on Oct.18 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Featuring local vendors, live music from Jasmine T Band and their award-winning wines, this is the perfect event for Brock students looking to have a boozy fall experience.
No tickets are required for the event, making the event the perfect chance to spend an afternoon exploring local businesses and enjoying the vineyard atmosphere without having to commit to a full winery tour.
Niagara Grape and Wine Festival
One of the most notable autumnal events held in Niagara every year is the Grape and Wine Festival. Fall wouldn’t be complete without attending at least one of the events put on by Niagara’s wineries.
This year’s festival runs from Sept. 24 to 27, with events taking place throughout St. Catharines and at more than 25 wineries across the region. The Discovery Pass program offers food-and-wine pairings at participating wineries, while the main festival weekend takes over Montebello Park.
The Montebello Park festivities run from Sept. 25 to 27 and have free admission, with local food, more than 100 Niagara VQA wines, live music and other activities throughout the weekend.
This year’s music lineup consists of live performances by Soul Jam, The Postmen, Jonesy, Mossy Frog, Mike Lynch and many others.
For Brock students, Montebello Park is also an opportunity to explore downtown St. Catharines beyond the usual route between campus and home.