Isabella Kostik & Angela Revels
Staff Writer
When you think of autumn, you might picture crisp air and colorful leaves. But in Lakeland, fall brings its own flavor, slightly cooler days, a burst of community energy and plenty of outdoor festivals, Halloween thrills and harvest-style fun. Here’s how to make the most of the season in our sunny corner of Central Florida.
One of the most popular fall traditions in the area is visiting local pumpkin patches. Families often head to Harvest Holler Corn Maze, open through Nov. 16, for hayrides, hands-on animal experiences and meet-and-greets. Others prefer The Barnyard U-Pick, where guests can pick pumpkins, take hayrides and snap perfect fall photos.
The Barnyard hosts seasonal events throughout the year, giving locals a reason to visit beyond October. Both spots capture the spirit of autumn and bring a touch of traditional fall charm to Central Florida.
Downtown Lakeland also comes alive this time of year. The Lakeland Downtown Farmers Curb Market, held every Saturday from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. from September through May, draws crowds of students, families and visitors eager to browse locally made crafts and fresh produce. It’s the perfect place to enjoy the cooler mornings with a pumpkin spice latte from a nearby café.
According to Hopkins, an FSC student, many students spend their time during the fall months balancing academics with seasonal activities like sports or pumpkin patch visits.
Community gatherings continue throughout November, with First Friday Cocoa-Palooza on Nov. 7, a downtown event celebrating all things chocolate, featuring live music, sweet treats and local vendors. Later in the month, the city officially welcomes the holiday season with the Christmas Tree Lighting in Munn Park on Nov. 27, an event that draws hundreds to enjoy carols, cocoa and a sparkling start to winter festivities.
For a family-friendly evening, fall festivals hosted by local churches and schools offer games, trunk-or-treat events and live music. Many FSC student-athletes volunteer to help set up pumpkin patches and trunk-or-treats at the downtown church, giving back to the community while spreading seasonal cheer.
Nature lovers can also embrace the season by taking a walk around Lake Mirror or visiting Hollis Garden, where the milder weather invites outdoor picnics and long strolls.
While the scenery may lack the red and orange hues of northern autumns, Lakeland’s bright greenery and gentle breezes still make for beautiful fall photos and a peaceful escape.
“Lakeland is very green and warm except in the morning and at night, that’s when you feel the crisp air. The grass even looks brighter this time of year,” Hopkins said.
She describes Lakeland’s fall as “green, warm, and stagnant,” noting that the season feels unique compared to northern states.
“Fall in Lakeland is like summer, spring, and winter all in one day,” she added. “Up north, fall is very autumnal with the leaves changing colors and the air being crisp. Lakeland fall isn’t really fall, it’s spring 2.0.”
Even without dramatic weather changes, fall in Lakeland is about community and connection. Whether you’re carving pumpkins, exploring local markets or joining the festivities downtown, there’s always something happening to help you soak up the spirit of the season.
