10 Ways to Have All the Fall Fun

Between school activities and weekend plans (not to mention finding that perfect Halloween costume), this month can fly by. Here’s our take on can’t-miss fall fun — see if you can check off everything on the list!

1. Take a Hike — And Take in Fall Beauty

Hiking is a wonderful way to admire all that gorgeous fall foliage. Ask around to see if anyone you know hikes — they’ll know trails close by, and you can learn a ton just by tagging along. Or try online groups at sites like MeetUp or the American Hiking Society. People who hike love to introduce others to their favorite trails and share their tips, so don’t be afraid to ask. Can’t make it to a local trail? Take a stroll around your neighborhood, sit in your backyard or at least go for a scenic drive.

2. Make Someone’s Day Brighter

October 5 is “National Be Nice Day.” Need ideas? You could surprise a coworker with a cup of their favorite coffee, send a greeting card to a relative you haven’t seen in a while or take in your neighbor’s garbage cans.

3. Embrace Hygge

Hygge is the Danish art of coziness and contentment. How you practice it is entirely up to you. We suggest reading a book, cozying up beside a fire, hanging twinkle lights in your bedroom or enjoying a warm drink.

4. Try Apple Chai-der

This cross between chai tea and mulled cider is comfortingly familiar yet enticingly different. Chai tea bags make it easy. It pairs perfectly with a leisurely autumn stroll.

5. Decorate Pumpkins

While carving is always fun, consider putting craft supplies like acrylic paint, feathers, sequins, glitter and even stickers to good use.

6. Enjoy a Fall-Scented Candle

Bonus points if you do so while reading some spine-chilling poetry — Edgar Allan Poe, anyone?

7. Sleep In — Then, Flip up a Stack of Pumpkin Pancakes

Espresso powder gives these cozy pancakes just enough of a jolt to make them extra special. Use chocolate syrup to draw magical finishes.

8. Watch a Scary Movie...and Don’t Forget the Popcorn

You can’t go wrong with the classic, movie theater-style popcorn, or drizzle plain popcorn with a little melted coconut oil and a sprinkle of curry powder.

9. Flex Your Green Thumb

Either set out a pot or two of mums, or plant some in the landscaping if you’re able. This is also the time to plant spring bulbs like daffodils and tulips.

10. Create a Fall Snack Board with These 5 Simply Bewitching Ideas

It’s easy to put together a colorful assortment of playfully creepy bites that are fun for snackers of all ages.

• Banana Ghosts: Halve peeled bananas. Use two mini chocolate chips for eyes, and one large chocolate chip for a mouth.
• Clementine Pumpkins: Peel clementines. Insert small spear of cucumber or celery for a stem.
• Cute Cookie Critters: Push pretzel stick legs into the filling of chocolate sandwich cookies. Add candy eyeballs or candy-coated chocolate pieces for eyes.
• Pumpkin Deviled Eggs: Sprinkle paprika over yolk filling and add a segment of fresh chive for a stem.
• Guacamole Dotted with Candy Eyeballs: Garnish guacamole with candy eyeballs and pair with celery, bell pepper or baby carrots for dipping.