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Each year, crisp lake breezes and maroon-and-gold leaves signal that autumn has arrived at Loyola. From reading in the “Harry Potter Room” of Cudahy Library to farmers markets and lakeside study sessions, here are ways to make the most of the season on and around campus.
Campus Traditions:
Madonna della Strada Chapel Crypt Tours
October 27 and 30, 7-8 p.m., Madonna della Strada Chapel
Led by Father Jerry Overbeck, S.J., this spooky Loyola event takes students into the crypts beneath Madonna della Strada Chapel. To set the scene for Halloween, take part in this festive tradition, but be sure to arrive early as the tour remains a popular fall staple of Loyola.
Friday Night Flick
Every Friday, 7 p.m., Damen Den
Every Friday, the Department of Programming hosts the Friday Night Flick. This season, catch a fall-themed movie such as Knives Out, at the Damen Cinema on Friday nights at 7 p.m. Find the Friday Night Flick schedule on LUCommunity.
Ramblin’ Around Dinner Crawl
September 30–October 1, 4:30 p.m.–7 p.m.
First-year students are invited to sample food from participating restaurants in the area. With stops at Flaco’s Tacos, Nori, and Yatai, get to know the local food scene around campus and where to find your favorite comfort meal for the season.
Attend an Athletic event
Show some Rambler spirit by supporting Loyola Athletics this season. Stop by Gentile Arena for Women’s Volleyball, cheer on Cross Country at meets across Chicago, and enjoy the fall weather at Loyola Soccer Park for Men’s Soccer. Once the weather cools, use it as an excuse to break out your maroon and gold Loyola scarf.
Fall in the city:
Lincoln Park Zoo
Free to the public and surrounded by autumn scenery, the Lincoln Park Zoo provides a fun fall adventure off campus. See the meerkats, grab a cup of cider, or even check out the neighboring Lincoln Park Conservatory. The scenic excursion is the ideal place to get immersed in the fall spirit.
Jack’s Pumpkin Pop-Up
Jack’s Pumpkin Pop-Up brings a pumpkin patch right into the city. Wander through the corn maze, pick out a pumpkin, and enjoy seasonal treats like apple-cider donuts—plenty of fall fun without leaving Chicago.
Farmers Markets
Check out one of the city’s farmers markets for fall produce and fresh flowers. Whether taking a walk to the Glenwood Sunday Market or venturing to the Green City Market Lincoln Park, be sure to catch one before the season ends.
The Loyola community can also support the Loyola Urban Agriculture Program at the Edgewater Monday Market at the corner of Broadway and Thorndale 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. through the end of September. Learn more about the program’s efforts to grow produce in Chicago’s urban environment here.
Everyday campus joys:
Read in the “Harry Potter Room”
Located on the first floor of Cudahy Library is Donovan Reading Room, commonly referred to as the “Harry Potter Room” across campus. With its high ceilings and arched stained glass, the room invokes all the feelings of dark academia associated with fall.
Take a stroll
If opting to stay closer to home, take a walk around any of Loyola’s Chicagoland campuses in between classes. As the vibrant greenery takes on new shades, put on some music and explore campus. Those on the Lake Shore Campus can enjoy a moment by Lake Michigan or venture into Rogers Park to peek at houses decked out in Halloween decor.
Study on the West Quad
Choose a favorite tree on the Lake Shore Campus, spread out your books, and take advantage of the cool, sunny weather for an outdoor study session.
Get a fall coffee
Indulge in the fall menus of local coffee shops by stopping for an apple crumble latte at Rivers & Roads, a seasonal special at Metropolis Coffee Company, a warm treat from Ralph’s Coffee or The Goddess and the Grocer near Water Tower Campus, or a pumpkin spice latte at any of the on-campus cafes.
