Ballots have been cast, a chill is in the air, and the crunch of leaves has been heard – there’s no doubt about it – the University of Montana is the #1 school for an autumn embrace. The colors popping, the mysterious pumpkins appearing and the goosebumps of spooky season rising - these are all telltale signs of fall descending upon campus to massive appeal.
Scroll on to see why the University of Montana is a fall lover's dream:
Pumpkin on Main Hall
One of the first signs of the season is the magical appearance of the pumpkin spiked atop Main Hall. Despite this gourd arriving at the start of every autumn for the past 30 years, it’s still a campus mystery how it gets its bird's-eye view. That’s because University officials disapprove of the daring task, and maybe because Missoula’s climbing community is good at keeping secrets. Either way, if you see the pumpkin, know fall season is upon us.
Read More: Campus Traditions: What Makes Us Montana
Fall Colors Hit Different on Campus (and Beyond)
Nothing takes your breath away more than UM’s campus during autumn’s changing colors. Our arboretum-like campus dramatically transforms as soon as the temperatures drop, offering a palette of fall colors no brush could ever capture. And it’s not limited to campus. Missoula’s larches and deciduous trees pay homage to pure beauty every extended autumn season, causing gasps of delight along every hiking trail, riverbank and walk through town.
Read More: Eight Walking Paths to Clear Your Mind
Griz Football = Fall
Autumn is football season, and in Montana, autumn takes place in Griz Country. There is nothing quite like a cup of hot cocoa in the stands of Washington-Grizzly Stadium during home games, cheering amid a sea of maroon as the marching band plays. Crisp weather and touchdowns, early evening and night games, and celebrating the home team as the year enters its final chapter – life is good as a Griz.
Seasonal Drink Choices
UM Dining Services whips up amazing meals and drinks every day of the year, but they really find their element in the fall. Visit any UM Dining establishment, including places like the Market in the UC or the various UM coffee shops across campus for something special, something seasonal, and something to give you a taste of fall.
Read More: Best Food Spots On and Off Campus
Sweater Weather Done Right
While summer is highly celebrated in Montana, everyone enjoys pulling out sweaters and sweatpants as the colder fall weather sets in. UM’s new vintage line, led by a copper color, is made for autumn comfort and style. And don’t forget about UM’s newest tradition, Griz Fridays, where everyone proudly wears their Griz Gear at the end of the week.
Spooky Season Done Right
Halloween is a special time on campus and in our community. A spookiness winds through the University District and its decorations, and with so many events and happenings, it's a bit mischievous and merry; it’s no wonder Halloween is always a favorite holiday. Check out some of these ways to get your spook on:
Haunted Campus Tour
Keep an eye on the calendar for annual haunted campus tours. Explore historic spots on campus known for eerie happenings, including Brantly Hall, one of the oldest buildings on campus and once an all-female residence hall.
Costume Crafting at Make and Mingle
The weekly Make and Mingle hangout, located at Calm and Crafty Corner in the University Center, sets its eye on Halloween in October with a chance to meet friends, craft the night away, and create a stellar Halloween costume.
Halloween Night-O (Griz Orienteering)
Join Griz Orienteering for a family-friendly night of exploring campus and finding special waypoints. Compasses and maps are provided and children under 12 get to explore for free.
More Halloween Happenings
Check out GrizHub for a lengthy list of all things Halloween happening on campus.
Halloween in Missoula
From trick-or-treating to Halloween bashes and special events, Missoula has a Halloween reputation that caters to everyone celebrating. There’s no shortage of costume contests and carved pumpkins, and plenty of ways to enjoy the holiday. From special movie screenings to elaborate decorations and crowds of costumed characters filling the downtown streets, Missoula is Montana’s best town to experience All Hallows' Eve.
Griz Pumpkin Carving Stencils
Pumpkins abound across campus and in the community, and UM loves showing Griz pride wherever we can. That’s why we have specialized pumpkin stencils available to download and carve into your primo gourd. Check them out yourself and get carving:
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