Fall in Lubbock brings us football, leaves, frights, and food.

After about forty years in Lubbock, I’ve learned a few things about what fall really means around here. Some folks might still call me a newbie, but I’ve lived enough autumns in West Texas to see the patterns.

From Haunted Houses to Homecoming Mums: What Makes Fall in Lubbock Unique

First, there’s football — always football. Friday nights are ruled by high school rivalries, marching bands, and those massive, over-the-top homecoming mums that defy both gravity and explanation. Then there’s Texas Tech football, which for decades meant heartbreak and “maybe next year.” But not this year. This year, Red Raider fans actually get to dream about playing well into the new year.

Of course, nothing says “fall” in Lubbock quite like Halloween. Nineteen years ago, we helped launch one of the biggest haunted theme parks in the world, and since then we’ve worked to “Keep Lubbock Spooky.” What’s great is that the whole city has followed suit — from trick-or-treat trails to decked-out neighborhoods that now rival Christmas displays.

We haven’t hit the sweater weather quite yet, but when we do, Lubbock will erupt in proud debates over who makes the best Caldo and Menudo — with steaming bowls popping up all over social media. Personally, I still think we missed an opportunity not making chili more of a local tradition.

Support Local: Get a Jump on Lubbock Holiday Gifts This Halloween Season

Read More: Get a Jump on Lubbock Holiday Gifts This Halloween 

Why Autumn in Lubbock Is More About Grit Than Pumpkin Spice

And then, just as the air cools and the wind shifts, comes the Lubbock classic: dust storms and dead leaves, nature’s brown-on-brown camouflage. Around here, fall isn’t all pumpkin spice and postcard scenery — it’s a season of grit, heart, and a little dirt in your teeth.

The Seven Natural Disasters of Lubbock

Things get messy around here, folks.

Gallery Credit: Chrissy

Never Grow Up: A Peek At Lubbock’s New Toy R Us Location

Lubbock is home to a new Toys ‘R Us pop-up inside South Plains Mall

Gallery Credit: Renee Raven