Autumn brings cooler temperatures, red and orange leaves, and seasonal fall drinks. From pumpkin patches to dressing up for Halloween, several festive activities flourish within the local area, especially in the nation’s capital, that allow locals to spend time with friends and family.
Washington, D.C., is famed for its over 50 unique museums, such as the National Gallery of Art (NGA), which hosts fall-related events and displays. Susanne, a visitor experience volunteer at this renowned art museum, described a few of its special exhibits. She explained, “There is currently a contemporary art exhibition by Native Americans running that will go on until January. [There are] also some women’s photography showcases.”
In addition to these special exhibits, the NGA also holds “National Gallery Nights,” which include indoor and outdoor programs revolving around different themes, such as Halloween and the importance of Indigenous peoples. On these nights, the gallery hosts local festivals, musical performances, and pop-up talks in the galleries from curators and community members.
“Museums definitely stay open,” Washington Welcome Center staff said. “There are also trolley rides and sightseeing tours throughout the city.” The Washington Welcome Center is a souvenir shop located near Ford’s Theatre. Just a few minutes from the District’s hub of museums is a famous sightseeing landmark: the National Mall. Strolling along the Mall offers picturesque views of significant historical buildings like the Lincoln Memorial and Washington Monument, making it a pinnacle spot for nature and architectural photography.
Thomas S. Wootton High School sophomore Christina Chow occasionally bikes to D.C. and often visits the city just before the brink of fall. “There are a lot of photography sites and it’s really easy to access. When my dad and I biked there in mid-September, we went on this trail along the river and there were a bunch of very nice and colorful trees,” Chow explained.
Straying slightly away from the heart of D.C. can lead to the nearby neighborhood of Georgetown. Visitors can cultivate a trip of historical learning while relishing the aura of fall. Georgetown’s online website guide outlines going on a historic C&O Canal boat tour or appreciating architecture to enjoy time in the city.
While the nation’s capital features several festivities, local towns also allow for opportunities to partake in the autumn season. Butler’s Orchard is a popular Germantown farm that hosts several family-focused events. They offer hayrides, expansive pumpkin patches, fruit-picking and late-night bonfires. In a nearby town called Kentlands, fall festivals, flea markets and trick-or-treating opportunities also occur during October and November.
These festive events and activities are not fulfilling for an empty stomach. Individuals can also take advantage of the new season by trying seasonal foods and drinks. Coffee powerhouse company Starbucks is known for bringing out its annual holiday drinks during the fall and winter. While crowds flock to the cafe roastery to try their seasonal Pumpkin Spice Latte and cream cheese muffins, several other local restaurants also have fall-themed menus. Restaurant chains like Silver Diner and South Block—located in Gaithersburg and North Bethesda, respectively—have a variety of assorted seasonal selections. Silver Diner recommends wild berry pies and whipped goat cheese omelets, and the latter sells apple crisp bowls and pumpkin smoothies.
The Greater Washington area offers a plethora of fall events, and there is no shortage of ways to welcome the season. The autumn peacefulness starkly contrasts the busy fall semester. Through its family-friendly events and seasonal foods, fall is a reminder that it can be fulfilling to take a step back and embrace the ambiance while it lasts.
Written by Pragna Pothakamuri of Thomas S. Wootton High School
Photography by Tia Daher of Seneca Valley High School