My Fall Favorites

Isabella Valdez, Opinions Editor

When leaves begin to crunch under booted feet and pumpkin spice lattes start to spill over their lids, that’s when we know it’s finally fall. The excitement for Halloween parties,  fistfuls of candy, and warm blankets burritoing us while we binge watch our considered classics, it’s all a part of the long-awaited fall time activities. However, with so many fall-esque things to do out there, how could anyone decide?  Here are my October favorites to help guide you:

in1. The Chicago International Film Festival: A once-a-year, must-stop-and-watch event for everyone who loves movies. For its 51st anniversary the festival will play host to over 130 films from over 50 countries-including documentaries and shorts. Attendees will have the opportunity to go panels as well as interact with real filmmakers and other film enthusiasts. A full schedule of the festival’s events can be found at www.chicagofilmfestival.com.

When: October 15-29

Where: AMC River East 21 at 322 E. Illinois Street, Chicago, IL 60611

How Much: (Tickets available at the box office and online)

Individual Student (with ID): $11

Rush (last minute to sold out films): $14-20

Special Showings: $20

After Dark (10pm): $10

Alternatives:

Midwest Independent Film Festival-Every Tuesday-Landmark’s Century Centre Cinema

Horror Movie Madness at Logan Theater-Every Day in October

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2. Edwards Apple Orchard: Apple picking, a petting zoo, a pumpkin patch, and best of all the snacks: homemade pies, ice cream, fudge, and the incredible apple cider doughnuts. Though it’s a bit of a drive (about an hour) and far cry from the urban/suburban Illinois we’re used to, Edwards is 50 plus acres of worth it.

When: 9am-6pm (October), 9am-5pm (November)

Where: 7061 Centerville Rd, Poplar Grove, IL 61065

How Much (bring cash!):

Apple picking (groups only): $40

Apple Cider Doughnuts: $4.99 for a half dozen (six)

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3. The Rocky Horror Picture Show: Paste on your false eyelashes and pull on your metallic gold Speedo and make your way into the city for a shadow performance of the 1975 cult classic and all its absolute pleasure. If this is your first time heading down, make sure to watch the film at least once and try to find a Rocky veteran to accompany you; it can get a bit rowdy.

When:  October 29 at 10pm, October 30 and 31 at midnight

Where:  Music Box Theater at 3733 N. Southport Ave. Chicago, IL 60613

How Much: $15 (Tickets available at the box office and online)

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4. 13th Floor Haunted House: A great activity for groups, it’s fun to see your friends run ahead in fright. Though they’re a bit expensive, haunted houses are awesome, adrenaline-pumping bouts of fun. And, the 13th Floor is super-close and, thanks to makeup and costumes, an authentic experience that is sure to leave you shaking.

When: September 25 to November 14

Where: 1940 George St, Melrose Park, IL 60160

How Much: $25-$30 (plus tax)

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5. Fall Festivals: Probably where the fall spirit is most tangible. Children and parents walking hand in hand down the leaf-dusted city streets and the sweet smell of caramel apples and fresh-cut pumpkins embody fall to the fullest. Come for fall-themed performances, workshops, crafts, meals, and antiques.

Halloween at Navy Pier:

When: October 31, 12pm (trick or treating-12 and under)-8pm

Where: Navy Pier

How Much (bring cash!): Most festivals do not have an admission fee. However, make sure to bring cash for any purchases you may make.

 

Northalsted Halloween Parade:

When: October 31, 4pm

Where: Begins at Halsted Street

 

Fall Color Festival:

When: Daily in October

Where: Morton Arboretum at 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle, IL 60532

How Much:

$14 Adults ages 18–64

$12 Seniors ages 65+  

$9 Youth ages 2–17