Fall Is the Best Season and These ~Awesome Autumnal Activities~ Are Proof
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Can you believe October is almost over? I sure as hell can't. I feel like I was sweating my buns off on the subway platform just yesterday. But that means we're in *peak* cozy season now, and that's a damn good place to be.
I could wax poetic about why fall is the best season for hours on end. I mean, there’s no humidity to negate all the time you spent on your hair, you can always go braless under a comfy sweater and no one will know, it’s socially acceptable to drink PSLs all day long (sue me, I like ‘em), every walk is an ASMR experience thanks to crunchy leaves, and the apple and flannel-scented candles just smell better. I could go on and on, but I’ll spare you. The point is, autumn is ~iconic~.
To ensure that we all take full advantage of the best season ever, I decided to go ahead and put together a bucket list full of things you’ll definitely want to do before it comes to a sad and bitter end. Below, you’ll find 65(!) fall activities to get on your radar ASAP—from Halloween parties with friends to cozy backyard date nights with your S.O. and everything in between. Scroll down for all the things to see, food to eat, and warm-and-fuzzies to feel before Thanksgiving is here and Christmas starts calling.
Go all out for your neighborhood trick-or-treaters.
When I was a kid, there was a dad on my block that dressed up every Halloween and handed out full-sized candy bars to all the kids in the neighborhood. He was, without a shadow of a doubt, the hero of my childhood. (I mean, I’m 27 and still talking about him right now.) Now, I’m not saying you need to go to the dollar store and pick up a bunch of full-sized chocolate bars for all of your smol neighbors, but…it’s not the worst idea. Not all heroes wear capes!
Turn your home into a haunted house.
Channel your inner Sanderson sister and decorate your house inside and out with everything witchy and wonderful. You don’t even need to leave the house to get your decor—Amazon’s got lots of goodies that are spooky and chic at the same damn time.
Experiment with your fitness routine.
Who says January 1st is when we should make all of our big life changes? Now that it’s cool out, take a moment to reevaluate your fitness routine—even if said routine is pretty much nonexistent. It’s a great time to bring some of your workouts outside, or try out new activities that’ll get your heart pumpin’. May I suggest a nice hot girl hike to see the changing leaves?
Try out a new makeup look.
Consider testing out some cooler tones to match the cooler weather. Match your Thanksgiving tablescape with cranberry-colored lips, chocolate-brown eyeliner, emerald-green shadow, or all of the above. And yes, you can use this as an excuse to ball out at Sephora.
Start an indoor garden.
Just because the mornings are getting frosty doesn’t mean you can’t still flex your plant parenting skills. Do some research on the best plants to grow indoors (I love edible herbs like basil, mint, and rosemary), and take stock of how much space you have by some sunny windows. You can even use companies like Bloomscape and The Sill to get ~hardy~ plants delivered straight to your apartment.
Take on the (big) role of hosting the Halloween party.
You’ll have clout for life, and I swear it’s not as stressful as it sounds…not with our roundup of easy Halloween party ideas, that is! Oh, and you should probably check out these spooky cocktails recipes, too.
Take a Hot Girl Walk, but make it…cool.
Long walks are so much better in the fall, because who tf actually likes to sweat? Zip on your puffer vest and hike up those joggers, then hit the ground running walking. Bonus points if you leaf peep while you’re at it.
Splurge on some chic new boots.
Every outfit is better with a killer pair of boots. Also, you need a solid set or two to keep those tootsies warm when the temp drops. Check out our guide to the best boot trends of 2022 and allow yourself to splurge a little.
Make a fall bucket list with your friends and/or partner.
So many fun fall activities, so little time? Take an evening to plan out a fall bucket list to put everything you want to do in one place, then commit to checking everything off before Christmas hits.
Join a book club.
It’s readin’ season, people. Act accordingly. Gather a good group of friends and start your own book club, or join a pre-existing squad that’s looking for new members. Once you’ve got that settled, make sure you’ve got your a) library card on deck, and b) route planned to your local wine shop.
Take a trip somewhere warm.
Is there anything better than daydreaming about a tropical vacation (perhaps at an all-inclusive) on a chilly day when your fingertips are numb and you’re donning five layers of clothing just to keep your body temperature above freezing? Yes, there is: turning those daydreams into a reality by booking yourself a flight to a destination where the sun never stops shining. Check out our Must-Visit List for some inspo.
Subscribe to something that makes you feel warm and fuzzy.
Subscriptions are basically surprise presents to yourself, and you deserve that kind of never-ending joy. Check out this list of our favorite self-care subscription boxes (it includes haircare, candles, wine, and even groceries) and pick your delicious poison.
Create a cozy lil nook.
When the going gets cold…sometimes the cold need to get going to a super cozy spot in their house to just hibernate for a little while. (Did I try too hard with that one? Maybe.) Whether it’s a corner in your basement or the window seat in your living room, carve out a little nook to fill with everything warm and soft (aka pillows, blankets, and maybe a space heater or two). It’ll be the perfect spot to escape to when you come inside after being chilled to the bone.
Check out a local production.
See if your city/town/high school is putting on a fall show, and buy tickets for the front row. The arts look good on you, dahling, and it’s a great way to spend a spare evening while supporting local talent.
Just go absolutely feral at Trader Joe’s.
Q: How many pumpkin, cranberry, butternut squash, and cinnamon-flavored snacks can one buy on a fall adventure to Trader Joe’s? A: The limit does not exist. Get the pumpkin waffles. Just do it.
Organize a sweater swap.
Still wearing the same hoodies, cardigans, and pullovers you added to your closet in the 2010s? Your friends might be, too. Invite your besties over for a sweater swap and find some new-to-you pieces for a little wardrobe refresh.
Go thrifting for your best Halloween costume ever.
If you've never created your Halloween costume based solely on what you could find at your local thrift store, I hope this inspires you. I also hope you win the costume contest.
Restock that fall candle collection.
As soon as the temps hit the 50s, it's time to have a candle burning at every waking moment. (That's my philosophy, at least.) Make sure you've got the good goods by checking out this list of our fave fall candles.
Brew up some mulled wine or spiced cider.
It's hot drink season, and trust me when I say these babies always taste better when you make 'em yourself.
Carve a pumpkin.
It was fun when you were 10, and it's just (okay, almost) as fun now. Try to get creative and go beyond the classic triangle-nosed Jack-o'-lantern. If you need some inspiration, we gotchu.
Bake some pumpkin seeds.
If your mom never popped your pumpkin seeds in the oven post-carving and doused 'em in salt, then I'm sorry. They are freakin' delicious, and you need to try them. They're also rich in vitamins and minerals so...health.
Host a fall-themed BYOCocktail night.
You know those TikTok videos where everyone brings their own special cocktail to share with the party? Do that! But make them all ~fall inspired~! Lucky for you, we've got great recipes for fall drinks and Halloween cocktails right here.
Paint a fall or Halloween-inspired mani.
Dig around in your nail polish stash for the rich brown, dark green, burnt orange, and deep cranberry shades you've been hoarding since last fall, then get to polishing. Alternatively, if you're a Halloween girlie, swap in your oranges, blacks, and whites. Terrible at painting your own nails? I love a good set of press-ons, which come in plenty of fun fall and Halloween designs.
Photoshoot! In! A! Cornfield!
Fall weather means you can wear your cute layers, your hair is less frizzy, and you're less likely to sweat all your makeup off. Aka, you're always photoshoot ready. Get some shots in a cornfield for a shucking good Insta.
Dye your hair a lil darker.
Love getting highlights in the summer? Maybe you should consider going a lil darker when the seasons change. Just a thought. Do with it what you will.
Pumpkin Spice up your room/apartment/home decor.
The changing of the seasons means a changing of the decor—and fall finds are some of the cutest. We found a whole whack of fall decor options you can buy on Amazon rn that are festive without being cheugy (it's a hard job, but somebody's gotta do it). Go ahead and take a little peek:
Host a Halloween movie marathon.
Twitches, Halloween Town, Hocus Pocus...you know the vibes. Don't forget some spooooky apps to share with the ghouls.
Read a book by the fire.
You don't know cozy until you know crackling-logs-and-new-bestseller cozy. If I could bottle that feeling up and sell it, ya girl would be rich. (Psst. Looking for a good book? Here are some of our must-reads.)
Go apple picking (duh).
You knew it had to be on this list somewhere. But it's fun! And it's fall! And tbh, I never feel like I took full advantage of the season if I don't pick a few overpriced apples and let them rot in my fridge for weeks after the fact. Real talk though, you need to hit an orchard for pics in your freshest fall 'fit.
Make an apple-y dessert.
Once you have a ton of apples you don't know what to do with (you can only eat so many slices dipped in nut butter, am I right?), it's time to start baking up a storm. Grab some butter and try your hand at an apple pie, apple cobbler, apple cake, apple cider donuts, apple dumplings, apple cheesecake, caramel apples, apple turnovers and SO MUCH MORE. Once you're sick of the flavor, pack up your goodies and gift them to your neighbors.
Take a hike.
No really, you might like it! It barely feels like exercise when you're distracted by pretty changing leaves.
Learn how to knit your own cold-weather accessories.
It's not that hard to do (I swear) and you'll have bragging rights till the end of days. Start with a scarf, work your way up to a hat, then try a sweater and mittens. *Calls grandma for lessons.*
Hit up a local fall festival.
There's a solid chance there will be apple cider donuts, and that's enough of a reason to go literally anywhere.
Visit a haunted house.
Do a lil Googling to find one near you, then make sure to invite a supportive friend or fling—this ish can be scarier than you expect.
Take a long drive for ~leaf-peeping~ opps.
Nothing beats lounging in the passenger seat while your favorite album blasts from the car speakers. Well, the only thing better is taking full control of the aux cord by blasting Midnights with the wind down and miles and miles of changing leaves in your rearview. TL; DR: Plan a picturesque road trip if only to peep some pretty leaves.
Challenge your friends to a bake-off.
Nothing beats a little healthy competition...especially when a plethora of delicious desserts (think: pecan pie, pumpkin spice latte cupcakes, apple fritters) is the reward. There's truly no losing with this one.
*Actually* get your holiday shopping done early.
You know, like you always say you're going to? This year, commit to taking advantage of those Black Friday sales. It'll save you a whole lotta stress and $$$.
Make a yummy soup.
There's officially a chill in the air, and the only season that's superior to Sweater Weather is the return of Soup Szn. Grab some broth and check out these three easy (and healthy-ish) recipes we love.
Check out a drive-in.
If you know someone with a pick-up truck, now's the time to befriend them. Then grab a sh*t ton of blankets, pillows, and snacks, and get ready to snuggle.
Have a cozy backyard date night.
Don't have a drive-in nearby? Bring the drive-in to you with a cuddly little backyard movie night. Grab a projector, pop some popcorn, and plop yourself down in a pile of blankets (the one below is great because it's meant for the outdoors) and pillows.
Rent a cabin in the woods.
Okay, it doesn't have to be like *that* kind of cabin in the woods. Just a cute lil Airbnb or old-school B&B will do for a romantic, delicious-chill-in-the-air getaway. Speaking of which, Getaway is a company that rents out adorable cabins less than two hours outside several major cities and they're definitely worth checking out...
Take a nap outside.
Maybe this is just my idea of the best afternoon ever, but burrowing under a ton of blankets and snoozing in the chilly weather is *chef's kiss* personified.
Visit your local farmer’s market.
Grab your cutest reusable totes and peruse the stalls all day long. It'll feel great to support your local vendors...and even better to bring home fresh produce, flowers, and desserts.
Host Friendsgiving.
Not that it's a competition or anything, but I know you can host the sickest Friendsgiving extravaganza (you know, an extra Thanksgiving dinner with your chosen fam) your crew has ever seen. We've actually put together a step-by-step guide to making it spectacular, so just follow that and tag us in your Instas later.
Get tipsy at a winery or brewery.
I love a summer trip to a winery or brewery as much as the next girlie, but there's something about being there when the seasons are changing that's just better. (Maybe because the only thing I want sweating is my cup of alcohol?) Don't sleep on your local cider mill, either.
Design a fall-inspired flower bouquet.
Head to Trader Joe's and pick up some dahlias, pampas grass, amaranths, chrysanthemums, and more in all your favorite fall shades—like yellow, burgundy, orange, and cream. Don't trust yourself with arranging? Try out a brand like Bouquet Box, which sends you all the blooms and tools you need for a beautiful display.
Organize your cold-weather wardrobe.
Forget about spring cleaning—fall cleaning is where it's really at. Take this time to go through your fall and winter clothes and decide which pieces you love and which are worth parting with. Like the geniuses at The Home Edit always say: the best way to get organized is to edit your closet. From one editor to another, good luck.
Get your thrills at the closest theme park.
Many amusement parks host Halloween-themed nights complete with tricked-out attractions, haunted houses, and often-terrifying scare actors. These events are also great if you want a chance to ride your fave rides with fewer little kids running around and way less sweating!
Host an Oktoberfest party.
If ya can't make it to Munich, bring Munich to you. Shopping list: beer, bratwurst, sauerkraut, soft pretzels, and more beer. Personalized beer steins highly recommended.
Tailgate at a football game.
You don't have to watch the game, I promise (unless you want to?). You just have to dress in the appropriate colors, probably a puffy vest, drink White Claws, and gossip with your friends. Go sports!
Volunteer at your local food bank.
Not everyone has a nice meal to sit down to on Thanksgiving day—or on any other day. Many people rely on their community food banks, and food banks often rely on volunteers. If you don't have money or food to donate, you can always donate your time.
Attend a dog costume contest.
Never seen a group of dogs sniffing each others' butts while dressed in adorable Halloween costumes? That needs to change. Get to Googling "dog costume contest near me" ASAP (and throw together a get-up for your dog if you have one).
Get your hands on an apple cider donut.
We've alluded to this before as a peak fall activity, but it's really important and deserves its own heading. Bonus points if you get one from an apple orchard, farmer's market, or fall festival. Pair it with some cider or mulled wine and your heart will be so happy.
Invest in a fluffy new duvet.
The more cloud-like, the better. You're obviously going to be spending more time in bed this time of year, so might as well make it an oasis. Not sure what duvet to get? Here are our eight favorite inserts you can buy RN.
Go on a cute bike ride.
Yes, it has to be cute. Pop on your chicest windbreaker and sneakers and prepare to get your pedal on. Take a moment before you head out to map out a trail with lots to look at (the more trees the better) for Fab Fall Views™. Also ideal if you have a cute friend or S.O. riding beside ya.
Get your chili game on lock.
A big crockpot full of chili + a chill in the air = fall sublimity. Pick your favorite recipe here then invite your friends over for a hearty din. Note: Chili is best paired with sour cream, shredded cheese, chopped scallions, and Football Sundays.
Treat yourself to a new coat/jacket.
Espeeecially if you've been rocking the same tired one for a few years now. A good jacket can be an investment, but it can also completely change your chilly weather fashion game (and keep you warm, duh). Don't know where to start? We gotchu with this complete guide to outerwear.
Buy all the discounted candy post-Halloween.
The kids have had enough—now it's your turn to raid Walgreens. Just make sure to leave some Sour Patch Kids for the rest of us.
Go antiquing.
Even if you don't buy anything, you'll *feel* like you're living in a rom-com while perusing the shelves.
Camp in your backyard.
It's fun, it's free, and it's fabulous to have electricity and running water just a few steps away. Don't forget the s'mores!
Take a day off for a long-weekend getaway.
Use that PTO! I repeat: Use! That! PTO! (Especially if it doesn't roll over at the end of the year!) Honestly, you deserve a vacation, and fall is the best time to take one, IMHO. It's not too hot, tourists have generally cleared out, and rentals are typically cheaper. Book an Airbnb, pack your favorite weekender bag, and hit the road.
Get a PSL.
Don't think. Just do it. You know you want to.
Book a hot air balloon ride.
Hey Alexa, play "Up Up & Away" by Kid Cudi. If you think the changing leaves are pretty from the ground, just wait 'till you see them from the sky. Plus, so romantic! If you've got a fall anniversary, this is as close to perfection as you can get to celebrate it.
Wine and cheese on repeat!
Okay, okay, so maybe you've been doing this all year 'round. Just change the vino to a full-bodied red and the cheese to a creamy brie or aged gouda. And yeah, you should probably put dried cranberries and pumpkin seeds on that charcuterie board of yours.
Make a quilt out of your old t-shirts.
Okay, this is something I've been meaning to do for a while after seeing it on Pinterest, and this fall is going to be the time I actually get crafty and do it. Basically, you cut out a square section of several of your old-but-meaningful t-shirts (like your previous sports team or sorority shirts), then stitch them together using batting and a cozy backing. A functional memento—Google it!
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