If you feel like you haven’t done anything special for fall just yet, don’t worry: with the winter equinox taking place on December 21st there’s still a few weeks left, and if you’re stuck for things to do, this article has the perfect fall bucket list, whether you’re with friends, family, your partner, or even by yourself.
While spring and summer tend to be associated with fun in the sun, it’s important to find some joy in every season, especially in fall and winter, which are notorious for being extra gloomy!
Many of these activities are also budget friendly, so that you can have fun while saving for the holidays.
1. Take a Fall Staycation
There are some beautiful sights to see around the United States come fall.
Gatlinburg, Tennessee, Saratoga County, NY and Columbus, Ohio all have their share of gorgeous foliage this time of year, or for why not book a cabin with SkyRun Broken Bow in the beautiful Ouachita Mountains, Arkansas?
2. Hold a Hygge Get Together
The Danish term “hygge” (you pronounce it “hoo-gah”) is all about feeling cozy and content, and how better to do that than with the classic formula of food, friends and fun?
Whether it’s a potluck dinner or a picnic in a leafy park, it’s the best excuse to dish up some delicious autumnal dishes (think pies, pastries, soups and stews), and enjoy time together.
3. Go Tailgating
Even if you’re not a sportsfan, tailgating (a pre-game gathering in the parking lot of a football stadium) is another fun way to bring everyone together.
Add snacks (barbecue or grill are traditional favorites), a few beers and friends and you can even recreate the experience in your very own backyard.
4. Get Crafty
As the weather gets chillier, you may find yourself wanting to cozy up indoors.
One of the best ways to pass the time is by getting into crafts. If you’re strategic about it, this may even help you to get a head start on some handmade holiday gifts.
As an added bonus, child-friendly craft activities can also be a great way to keep the kids busy on rainy days.
5. Movie Night
Whether you’re head-over-heels for autumnal rom-coms, or a horror fan who sees the whole of October through November as one long spooky season, there’s so many great fall-themed movies to choose from,and plenty of options for the kids, so pop some corn, kick back and enjoy.
6. Decorate Your Home
As the nights draw in, adding a touch of color and fun to your surroundings can be a real mood-booster, so if there’s a DIY job you’ve been putting off, now’s the time to get started.
Besides decorating, there’s also decor: fall flower arrangements, door wreaths and centerpieces are all lovely ways to bring some autumnal charm into your space.
7. Enjoy a Classic Fall Day Out
Some activities instantly remind us of fall: Apple picking, pumpkin patches, sunflower fields, corn mazes and hayrides are all considered classic autumnal days out.
They’re also a great way to get some fresh air and vitamin D into the bargain.
Search for local activities and events near you, or alternatively seek out a market or fall festival in your area.