City of Cleveland hosts various fall activities
Photo by Senior Photographer Isaac Vacheresse
As Fall Break 2021 commences, many students are preparing to travel while others stay in Cleveland. The Cleveland and Chattanooga areas offer a variety of local festivities for students staying in town during the break.
“I know many people travel, but I’m excited about staying on campus this fall break,” said Caleigh Smith, a junior math and history education major. “I’m planning on working over the break but also trying some new things and exploring some hiking spots.”
Fall break is a highly anticipated time for students and staff across campus. Beginning Thursday, Oct. 14, and continuing through the weekend, students will have a break from classes to spend time with family, take a trip with friends or catch up on sleep.
“This is my first fall break staying here in Cleveland,” said junior communications major Jeri Wakefield. “But having my sisters and their families live here really makes this a second home for me. I’d love to go experience the Cleveland Apple Festival with them and the rest of the community!”
The Cleveland Apple Festival begins Saturday, Oct. 16, from 10-6 p.m. and Sunday, Oct. 17 from 1-6 p.m.
A staple for the fall season in the Cleveland and Bradley County area, this non-profit festival has been around for more than 19 years. All of the Apple Festival proceeds benefit local non-profits in the city of Cleveland.
“The pandemic canceled the festival last year, so we are super excited about being able to come together this year,” said Jill Brown, director of the Cleveland Apple Festival. “A safe, fun, family atmosphere is our goal for the Apple Festival.”
This annual downtown festival offers arts and handmade items, live music, food booths, pony rides, entertainment, children’s activities and more.
“We aim to celebrate and bring together the best of Cleveland at the Apple Festival,” said Brown. “We love our city and its people. A festival a day keeps the boredom away!”
Fall break is also the start of many Halloween festivities. Southeast Tennessee is prepared with numerous haunted houses, escape rooms, corn mazes, trails and other holiday attractions to usher people into the Halloween spirit this fall break.
Dread Hollow is rated a “must-see haunt” by many top Halloween websites and fans. Dread Hollow includes multiple escape rooms and this year’s themed haunted walk, “No Mercy 2021.”
On Oct. 31, the city of Cleveland will host the annual Halloween Block Party from 3-9 p.m. This 34 year downtown tradition offers live music, free candy on Mars Wrigley Treat Street, food, games and costume contests.
From family-friendly events in Cleveland, a haunting scare in Chattanooga or simply time to rest, there are various events to contribute to fall break.
For more information on the Cleveland Apple Festival, visit their website. A full list of Halloween and fall events taking place in Chattanooga can be found here.
