With the return of rainy weather and the start of a new term for university students, fall time is making its way back to Eugene. With the season just around the corner, it’s the perfect time to start planning events to get out and enjoy it before it’s gone. Here are some of the best you can do in and around town.
Pumpkin patches, corn mazes and more at Northern Lights Christmas Tree Farm
36777 Wheeler Rd, Pleasant Hill
Despite its Christmas-spirited name, Northern Lights offers guests plenty to enjoy around harvest time. Throughout October, the 162 acre farm provides several classic autumn attractions, such as a u-pick pumpkin patch, corn maze, fall and halloween themed gift shop and hayride farm tours on the weekends. There is also a covered picnic area that comes complete with an espresso bar and food vendors for guests to enjoy.
Rally in the Alley
296 E 5th Ave, Eugene
If you follow college sports in Eugene, you know that there’s plenty to enjoy outside of the games themselves. This fall, there will be several “Rally in the Alley” events held in the 5th Street Public Market on Friday nights before Ducks football games. Hosted by University of Oregon alumni, the rallies include performances from the UO cheer team and pep band, as well as vendors providing guests with Ducks themed specials. Beer will also be provided by Steelhead Brewery. The rallies last from 4:30 to 6:00 p.m., with future events taking place on the dates provided here.
Hiking at the Mount Pisgah Arboretum
34901 Frank Parrish Rd, Eugene
While Oregon is most well known for its abundance of pine trees, there are several spots in the state where you can see fall foliage that’s a little less evergreen. One of those spots is the Mount Pisgah Arboretum, which contains over 200 acres of pristine Willamette Valley nature. There are several trails of varying difficulty within the park, many of which will take visitors through areas of leafy trees that turn to beautiful shades of orange and yellow in the fall time. As a bonus, The Arboretum will be hosting a mushroom festival on Oct. 29, featuring live music, cider pressing and several vendors.
Native American Arts and Crafts Market
85 E 8th Ave, Eugene
Towards the end of fall, the city of Eugene will be hosting a Native American Arts and Crafts market in the Farmers Market Pavilion. The event will allow several Indigenous artists and craftworkers to present and sell their work. According to the city, “The Eugene NAACM’s mission is to provide a safe and supportive venue for the creativity of these skilled artisans.” Visitors can support vendors and purchase handmade goods such as beadworks, clothing and more. The event will take place on Nov. 5 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.