Missing Fall Break? Here Are Some Fun Fall Activities to Pass the Time
By Madyson Fitzgerald
Photo by Madyson Fitzgerald
Fall break is a memory of the past for many college students. In response to the coronavirus pandemic, colleges and universities completely changed their academic calendars, cancelling breaks to prevent students from traveling and possibly contracting the illness. This decision, to accelerate the academic semester by cancelling all breaks, was made over the summer to many students’ dismay. It was a smart decision however; as many schools have experienced an increase in cases.
According to The New York Times‘ coronavirus reporting, over eight million people have contracted the virus in the United States, with almost 220,000 deaths. Moreover, the U.S. has witnessed a daily increase of more than 55,000 cases per day this past week, a rate that has not been seen since mid- to late- August.
With uncertainty regarding when a vaccine may be available, schools are expecting to keep tight regulations through the spring semester. According to an article by ABC News, many schools, including The University of Michigan, Purdue University, Baylor University, and countless others have moved to cancel spring break.
The cancellation of these breaks may seem detrimental to a stressed-out student just finishing up their midterms. Luckily, for students in the RVA, there are still many opportunities to unwind. The city of Richmond offers lots of activities for college students looking for a safe way to have a good time!
Ashland Berry Farm
Established in 1979, Ashland Berry Farm has become a staple for families all over the RVA. Their website reads, “The farm has established itself as one of the top destinations for your landscape and gardening needs as well as creating a place to create wonderful family memories!”
Throughout the month of October, people from the community have been visiting their star attraction: the pumpkin patch. With free hayrides (and parking), it’s a great way to enjoy the fall weather while also social distancing. At the end of a long day, they also let you carry home as many pumpkins as you can hold for only $20! A calendar with their operating times is available on their website.
When night falls, the family fun turns into the “Terror on the Farm,” with four new areas to explore — if you dare. “Terror on the Farm” runs Friday through Sunday every week, and some Thursdays. Tickets and more on operating hours can also be found on their website.
Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden
With over 50 acres of gardens, displays and more, Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden has numerous exhibits that have captured the eyes and hearts of Richmond for years. Open year-round to the public, the Garden is a great way to spend a beautiful fall day, and offers the chance to enjoy the outdoors while social distancing. Themed gardens include the Children’s Garden, the Rose Garden, the Asian Valley, the Cherry Tree Walk, and much more.
To plan your visit, simply visit their website and reserve tickets (they’re free!) for your desired date. From November 23 to January 10, the Garden will also be holding the Dominion Energy GardenFest of Lights. At 4 p.m. each night, the Garden lights up, becoming a breathtaking experience for anyone in attendance. The Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden is open Wednesdays through Sundays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
RVA’s Food Scene
It is no secret that Richmond’s restaurant scene is booming. In fact, the Richmond Times-Dispatch reported in 2019 that there are over 2,000 Richmond-area restaurants, and that number is only climbing. With cuisines and specialties from almost every culture, there are college students will never run out of places to visit.
Some of the most popular dishes include a fresh slice of cake at Shyndigz, some waffles for brunch at Lulu’s, a Chesapeake pizza at Bottom’s Up in Shockoe Bottom, sushi at Sticky Rice, fried catfish from Mama J’s, and the list goes on and on. As a result of the pandemic, many of these restaurants have also provided safer forms of dining. In addition to outdoor patios and rearranged dining areas, most offer delivery, takeout and curbside pickup. With the economy still regaining its strength, supporting Richmond’s restaurants would be a great help for hungry college students.
In all of this, college students want to stay as safe as possible, while still having a good time. That means wearing masks, social distancing and opting to stay home when it’s possible. It is okay to catch a break every once in a while, but during a global pandemic, it must be done safely.
