By SAGE

Fall is upon us in Champaign-Urbana! As the semester marches to a close, we all have to take some time away from our computers, labs, offices, and library couches. Let your final papers simmer for a while, put that grading on hold, and give yourself a break. Research says it’s a good thing!

Central Illinois offers many ways to take in the new season. Read on to find out some of our favorite ways to enjoy fall and the coming holiday season.

Get outdoors

• Take a trip to Curtis Orchard in Savoy to pick apples or try one of their famous donuts best when fresh from the fryer.
• For great views of the changing leaves, hit the trails or go fishing at Kickapoo State Recreation Area in Oakwood, IL. 
• Head over to Allerton Park in Monticello, IL to wander through themed gardens, admire amazing sculptures, and visit the Allerton Mansion.
• Venture to the Lake of the Woods Forest Preserve and the Red Bridge in Mahomet, IL for hiking, biking, and sledding when the snow comes.

  

• Check out Crystal Lake Park and the Anita Purves Nature Center in Urbana to experience nature first hand.

Cozy up or get loud indoors

• Cozy up at Espresso Royale or your favorite coffee shop with your research and abundance of readings where sweaters and hot drinks are the norm until spring.
• Get cultural at the Japan House at the University of Illinois Arboretum for Japanese tea ceremonies and fall open houses.
• Showcase your Illinois spirit at Illini Hockey Games.

Holidays on the horizon

• Check off your shopping lists at the Urbana Holiday Market on Saturdays from November 8 to December 20 at the Lincoln Square Mall.
• Get into the holiday spirit at the Parade of Lights on Saturday November 28 at 6 pm in Downtown Champaign.
• Relive your childhood with enchanted toys with the Nutcracker at Krannert Performing Arts Center from December 3-6.

  

• Take in the magic of the lights at the Allerton Mansion “All is Bright” on December 3 or the Holiday Open House from December 12-14.
• Visit Hardy's Reindeer Ranch in Rantoul, IL for corn mazes, pumpkins, good eats, and of course the reindeer!

Don’t miss out next year!

• The Great Pumpkin Patch in Arthur is open mid-September to October 31.
• Folks and Roots Festival in Downtown Urbana during the first weekend of November.

Top image of the red covered bridge at Lake of the Woods Forest Preserve courtesy of Visit Champaign County.

SAGE is a student advisory board and leadership opportunity for graduate students at Illinois that fosters active engagement with Graduate College programs and initiatives. SAGE board members enrich graduate student community, build leadership and administrative skills, and strengthen Graduate College services and programs.

This board contributes to the graduate student community at Illinois by providing varied perspectives that enhance the academic, professional, and social experience of graduate students at the university and collaborating with Graduate College staff on a project related to a program, initiative, or the broader goals of the college.

Check out this year’s members and learn more.