CHC Fall Festival Brings Students Together for a Season of Connection : Commonwealth Honors College : UMass Amherst

Seven people sitting on stone steps while eating apple cider donuts and drinking apple cider at the 2025 CHC Fall Festival

Students enjoyed connecting with others over apple cider and conversation at the CHC Fall Festival. Photo: Grace Chai

On Saturday, October 11th, Commonwealth Honors College (CHC) once again hosted its annual Fall Festival on the CHC Concourse right outside Roots Café. Attendees enjoyed the crisp fall air, as well as donuts, hot cider, and two performances from the on-campus a cappella groups Doo Wop Shop and Sharp Attitude.

Members of the a cappella group Sharp Attitude pose for a photo

Members of Sharp Attitude. Photo: Grace Chai

Students and faculty alike listened to an excellent rendition of Elvis Presley’s “Teddy Bear” by Doo Wop Shop, and were dazzled by Sharp Attitude’s coordinated moves and costumes. The crowd fell silent as each group began to perform, and afterwards erupted into a chorus of applause and cheers.

Honors student and neuroscience major Alicja Milczarek, said, “I thought the a cappella groups did a great job. I feel like events like these make the already close-knit Honors community seem even more welcoming and friendly.” She also mentioned that the events offer a great opportunity to get out and meet people, especially because she lives in Maple Hall.

Pumpkins and craft supplies on a table at the CHC Fall Festival

A colorful spread of crafts welcomed attendees to get creative and celebrate the season. Photo: Mikey Hadley

Joe McSweeney, a mechanical engineering major, said that he felt the events were welcoming and enjoyable even for those not in CHC, and were a good way to bring students together from all parts of campus.

Members of Doo Wop Shop were focused on an intense game of Jenga just prior to their performance. They said they enjoyed performing at the event each year and appreciated the opportunity to celebrate everything fall. When asked about their favorite parts of the season, they mentioned the weather, flannels (which they were all wearing), and the changing leaves.

Members of the Doo Wop Shop a cappella group playing Jenga at the CHC Fall Festival

Before hitting the stage, Doo Wop Shop members enjoy some friendly competition in coordinating flannels. Photo: Mikey Hadley

If you didn’t get the chance to attend the Fall Festival this year, be sure to check out CHC’s many other upcoming events. As we near the peak of this year’s fall splendor, take some time to get outside and enjoy the beautiful campus scenery!