College Football Tailgating Voted North Dakotans’ Favorite Remedy for ‘September Slump’.

As summer vacations come to an end and cooler weather settles in, many people feel a mix of nostalgia for the sunny days and stress over returning to routine. September can be a tricky time, balancing the warmth and freedom of summer with the reality of back-to-school schedules. But across the U.S., September is also a time for communities to lift their spirits and celebrate fall. From lively state fairs to harvest festivals, these events are a great way to shake off the post-summer blues.

A recent survey by Mission Connection, involving 3,000 North Dakotans, highlighted the September events people look forward to the most. Here are the top three ways locals are beating the end-of-summer slump:

1. College Football Tailgating
For North Dakota sports enthusiasts, September means the return of college football and the much-loved tailgating season. Tailgating isn’t just about pre-game rituals—it’s a social event where friends and family gather to celebrate their teams. The fun, camaraderie, and festive vibe of tailgating provide a significant mood boost, fostering a strong sense of community.

2. End-of-Summer Road Trips
As the warm weather wanes, many North Dakotans take advantage of the final days of summer with a road trip. Whether it’s a scenic drive, a national park visit, or a favorite getaway spot, these trips offer a chance to enjoy the last bits of sunshine and adventure before autumn arrives. These journeys are a great way to create lasting memories and relieve the stress of returning to daily routines.

3. Fall Foliage Viewing
With the arrival of autumn, North Dakotans flock to enjoy the fall foliage. A drive through the countryside or a stroll in a local park can be a soothing way to connect with nature and appreciate the season’s beauty. While peak leaf colors might arrive later in North Dakota compared to other regions, there are still spots where the vibrant hues of fall make for a picturesque and calming experience.

Mission Connection also explored how North Dakotans are adjusting to the seasonal change. A significant 38% of people are already missing those long summer evenings, while 14% are still dreaming of BBQs and ice cream.

The transition from summer to fall can bring its own set of challenges, with 31% feeling “fall fatigue,” 20% experiencing extra stress or anxiety, and nearly 10% struggling with focus. Yet, for 39% of respondents, it’s business as usual with no seasonal blues in sight. Some are navigating the change smoothly, while others are just trying to stay awake and upbeat.