Autumn at the Arbor

Autumn at the Arbor is one of the most popular events on campus! It is also one of my personal favorites. Despite fall not being my favorite season (hot take, but spring is the best), Autumn at the Arbor is always a highlight of my year. I’m sure if you’re a returning student you will also have many fond memories and if you’re a freshman, get ready for a fun-filled week of events, activities and the highly anticipated Arbor Games!

Below you can find my guide to the best Autumn at the Arbor events.

Monday 09/25

Homecoming Scavenger Hunt

When? All week or until the coin is found. 

Where? SAU Main Campus. 

Join in the campus wide search for a chance to win Detroit Lions Tickets and new air pods! This event is an every-man-for-themselves event and usually involves some creative thinking to locate the SAU coin. 

Wednesday 09/27

SAU Serve Day

When? 9am – 12pm

Where? Spring Arbor and Jackson.

Join SAU faculty, staff and students as we serve local communities together. All who participate will enjoy a complimentary lunch. I always hear students talk about how much fun they had after serve day – it’s a great way to give back to the Spring Arbor and wider communities. 

39th Annual Arbor Games

When? 2pm

Where? SAU Plaza and Decan Field

This friendly competition puts residence areas against one another. It begins with a parade through campus, followed by different minute-to-win-it games that allow teams to earn points. Whatever teams end up in first, second or third place win amazing prizes for their entire team!

Friday 09/29

Cougar Madness

When? 10pm

Where? MAC

Cougar madness is always a good time! It’s a prep rally introducing our basketball teams, playing fun games, and a chance to get a Cougar Madness t-shirt. The event is for students, employees and young alums. 

Saturday: 09/30

Hinkley 5K Donut Dash

When? 9:30am

Where? MAC

Register here Registration here.

What better way to start your saturday than by having Hinkley’s donuts?! You’ll just have to complete a fun little 5K (3 miles) to get one. 

Homecoming Fall Festival 

When? 11:30am – 2pm

Where? The Oak Tree

Come experience fall fun! Enjoy pumpkin painting, donuts, cider, inflatables and games. My favorite part of the Fall festival is seeing all the local vendors, food tucks and live music. 

Women’s Volleyball Game

When? 1pm

Where? MAC

Come out an dsupport the womens volleyball team as they play crossroads rivals Marian!

President’s Tailgate

When? 2pm

Where? Cougar Soccer Complex

Connect with President Ellis and Mrs. Ellis, faculty and staff, students, parents and alumni before the homecoming soccer game. The frst 250 attendees will receive an exclusive stadium cup! 

Homecoming Soccer Game

When? 3pm

Where? Cougar Soccer Complex

Maybe I’m biased, but I know this will be the best event of the weekend… cheer on the SAU Womens Soccer team as we take on Goshen! 

Homecoming Hoedown 

When? 8pm – 10pm

Where? The Plaza

This student focused event will have line dancing, bonfires, hayrides and more! Our very own Bella Chirco will be leading hoedown.

Written by SAU Marketing student Blair Currie