Harvest Festival Goes into Full Swing

PLYMOUTH, NH -- The leaves have begun turning from green to blazing colors of red and intense tones of orange. Around campus the pumpkin spices and the flavors of Autumn were in the air. Homecoming weekend finally arrived and the Harvest Festival on Sat., Oct. 5, 2013 was in full swing. Even though the weather was overcast, the smiles and good cheer were as bright as the ever-changing leaves on the trees. 

A yellow, blue, green, and red trolley named the "Trackless Train" ferried children and loved-ones down Alumni Way as it did a roundabout in front of the HUB.  The air was filled with the smell of a fresh breeze and burgers.  The lawn in front of the HUB was an ocean of students, newcomers, and alumni.

"This place is a wonderful spot with beautiful people" said Ben, the junior resident DJ as"(I Can't Get No) Satisfaction" by the Rolling Stones hit the airwaves.

The center of campus was full of hustle and bustle as people tossed bean bags, laughed, and enjoyed the autumn celebrations. Even a few patrons braved the Mechanical Bull ride inside the Fireplace Lounge, located in the HUB.  Green and white pennants hovered over the masses as family and friends reveled in the moment.

Alexa and Rachael, both Alumni Relations photographers, said, "This captures the essence and community of PSU, including multi-generational families."

Along the way to the President's house, vibrant leaves blanketed the campus and glowing trees lit up the community walkways.  Everyone seemed to have a little extra hop in their step.

"No other way to describe it but a day of positive energy," said  Sam Durfee, the President and Secretary of the Common Ground Organization. Common Ground attended the festival to promote Earth Jam 2013, a concert for supporting sustainable resources and environmental consciousness.

Speckled throughout the lawn were Plymouth State food tents promoting "Mindful Dining on Campus."  One had White Mountain Kettle Corn fresh from Henniker, New Hampshire and another served up local health produce and Stonyfield Yogurt.

"We are trying to push food with lower sodium content that fit a certain nutritional criteria" said Diahnn Thompkins, PSU Resident Nutrition Expert. Sodexo provided all of the food  and beverages at Harvest Fest.  Their aim is to allow people to have a lot of healthy options to choose from, including gluten free choices as well.

Harvest Fest was a success and brought many smiles, laughs, and enjoyment. Even the Dunkin Donuts mascot couldn't help but dance. Homecoming weekend was a time for good fun, new memories, and celebration for the great things happening at Plymouth State.

"It was great seeing my family, and some old friends that graduated, the atmosphere was very welcoming and fun," said junior Katlyn Hall.