By Lucy Reinhart

The air is getting cooler, the leaves are turning vibrant shades of red and orange, and pumpkin-flavored everything is popping up around town. You know what that means, Halloween is just around the corner! Whether you’re looking for solo adventures, family-friendly activities, or something fun to do with friends, grab your flannel, and let’s dive into some fun local Halloween and fall activities.

Pumpkin Carving & Decorating

Nothing says fall like a good old-fashioned pumpkin carving session! Head over to one of Corvallis’ many pumpkin patches for a huge selection of pumpkins to pick from or even just a grocery store. After you’ve found your perfect one, invite friends over for a carving party or try your hand at painting and decorating instead. You can even turn it into a mini competition to see who can create the scariest, funniest, or most creative design.

The Melon Shack Haunted Corn Maze

Looking for a thrill? Once the sun sets, The Melon Shack’s corn maze turns into a haunted adventure. Perfect for anyone looking to up their Halloween game, the Haunted Corn Maze is full of surprises, just be prepared for some eerie encounters as you navigate through! For a tamer version, visit during the day when the maze is less spooky.

Halloweentown in St. Helens

Take a day trip to St. Helens, where the entire town transforms into Halloweentown, inspired by the beloved Disney movie. From live events and costume parades to spooky photo ops, St. Helens celebrates Halloween in style. The town even recreates some iconic scenes from the movie, making it the perfect nostalgic fall adventure for fans.

Fall Foliage Hikes

Take in the season’s beauty by exploring Corvallis’ scenic hiking trails. Bald Hill, Peavy Arboretum, Chip Ross, and the Saddle all offer stunning views of fall colors, perfect for an afternoon of peaceful walking. It’s a great way to unplug, enjoy the crisp autumn air, and appreciate the changing leaves. For a little extra fun, bring along a thermos of hot cider and some fall snacks for a mid-hike break.

DIY Halloween Costumes

Get creative and make your own costume this year! Grab some old clothes, fabric, and craft supplies, and host a DIY costume-making night with friends. Whether you’re aiming for something spooky, funny, or original, it’s a great way to get into the Halloween spirit. Plus, it’s a lot more fun (and budget-friendly) than buying a costume off the rack.

Movie Marathons

Looking for a low-key way to celebrate Halloween? Host a cozy movie night with all your favorite spooky classics. Pop some popcorn, grab a blanket, and queue up films like Hocus Pocus, The Nightmare Before Christmas, or Coraline for some lighthearted fun. If you’re feeling brave, add a horror movie like The Conjuring or US to the lineup.

Baking Fall Treats

Fall is the season of warm, delicious treats. Spend an afternoon baking pumpkin muffins, apple pies, or cinnamon rolls. Not only will your kitchen smell amazing, but you’ll also have plenty of tasty snacks to enjoy. You can even turn it into a fun activity with friends or family, everyone can bring their favorite fall recipes and bake together!

From spooky mazes to cozy baking nights, Corvallis and its surrounding areas offer plenty of fall fun. If you take any photos of your activities, email them to the yearbook to possibly get shown!