The chilly October morning didn’t deter many college students from throwing on a hoodie and enjoying free food.

Last weekend at UMass Dartmouth’s annual “Fall Family Festival: Autumn in New England,” students and their families were able to experience a variety of activities.

Student artists sold jewelry, ceramics and textiles, and a farmers market gave students a chance to stock up on fresh vegetables and other offerings.

“It’s a great way to bring the community together and make connections,” said Commuter Assistant Mandy Magalhaes. “It’s also a great way to get commuters involved and there is a lot of free stuff, as well as a raffle.”

“This is an awesome weekend to go to,” said junior Yany Melendez. “There’s a variety of food, and it’s really good.”

Food included everything from hot dogs and pizza to Belgian waffles and blueberry cobbler.

There were different activities like bounce houses and a pumpkin painting station as well as various vendors. Sue and Gary Laib of Wisconsin own Full Moon Farm, where they create arts and crafts.

“There is a lot of good music,” said Sue Laib. “I’m headed for the waffle booth.”

Grace Morrison and her band, Icarus Account, and the UMass Dartmouth Dance Team provided this year’s entertainment.

Erin Sylvia of Sundowner Farms in Dartmouth sold native sweet corn, gourmet potatoes, pumpkins and other decorative items at her stand.

“It’s a really nice atmosphere,” said Sylvia. “It’s nice to see a lot of familiar faces.”

Senior criminal justice major Stan Chiu agreed, saying that the festival is a fun place for families to get together.

“It shows involvement in the community,” said Chiu.

Spanish Professor Blanca Vargas pointed out that this event is not only for the students.

“You get to know a lot of people and the food is great,” said Vargas. “[The festival] helps the University to tell people about the academics and extracurriculars that we offer.”

Vargas said that she enjoys how this event brings people together.

“It’s the best event all year,” said Alec Lavoie, a senior computer science major.

Junior political science major Chris White agreed, saying that the event is enjoyable.

However, there was one group of visitors at the festival that drew the ire of some in attendance: the bees. The amount of sweets on campus likely attracted the buzzing pests.

“It’s fun, except for the bees,” said White, laughing.