It’s fall and I’m broke: Fall fun on a college budget

I may have mentioned this before, but fall is my favorite season! I love doing all the “fall” things each year. However, I am in college. Therefore, I am lacking in anything resembling money. If you are a fall lover in the same sad predicament as me, then take heart! I have assembled a list of fantastic autumnal activities that are both fun and budget friendly. 

Take a hike/drive

Take yourself on a walk or drive through town to gaze at the colorful leaves emerging everywhere! Parks such as Holmes and the Sunken Gardens are at the peak of beauty right now. Take a drive down Sheridan or Van Dorn Street for a truly spectacular display of fall color. 

Farmer’s market

Enjoy a stroll through the farmer’s market on Sunday mornings and take in all the pumpkins, apples and other “fall” stuff! Smaller pumpkins and gourds for decoration are very reasonably priced and can add a bit of festiveness to your dorm room. 

Pumpkin patch or apple orchard

If you are up for spending a bit of money, there are several pumpkin patches and apple orchards around Lincoln. While these do cost admission, they are a great place for all day of fall fun with your friends. Some local places include Roca Berry Farm, Vala’s Pumpkin Patch and JK’s Pumpkin Patch. 

Fall picnic

Grab some snacks from the cafe, a blanket and a friend and enjoy a picnic in the gorgeous fall weather! Pick a park nearby or simply sit in the lawn. Grab a warm hot chocolate, tea or apple cider to really add to the experience!

Decorate

There are a ton of fun and cheap ways to bring a bit of the season into your dorm room. Tiny pumpkins and gourds are inexpensive and very cute. Grab pretty leaves you see outside and tape them to your mirror or make them into a wreath. The dollar store is also a great place to find cheap decorations. 

Create a fall playlist

Smooth jazz is my choice of music this time of year. Whatever it is for you, create a specialized playlist to accompany your fall season!

Fall fun does not have to be expensive. I hope this has given you some great ideas for celebrating the season, without causing too much damage to your wallet!

By Hannah Olin