Fall things to do . . .
I don’t know about you, but I’ve been very anxious to start a new chapter. Fall has always been my favorite time of the year. Physically and mentally, it signals change for me. I thrive in light jacket weather, the colorful scenery is absolutely beautiful and seasonal treats are at their peek. Where are my pumpkin spice lovers at?!? Even though our fall festivities might look a bit different this year, I’m still making big plans to celebrate the season. I’ve rounded up a few Fall things to do while social distancing. They’re family-friendly and pandemic-approved–make sure to wear a fun mask + wash those hands!
Family Movie Night
Build a fort, get cozy on the couch and break out the expensive snacks. There’s no better time to binge a spooky show or two. I made a list of 40+ Halloween movies, TV shows + docuseries that are currently available to stream. It’s packed with family favorites, new-to-us discoveries and a few vintage cartoons you’ll remember from days of yore.
Spend a Saturday in the Kitchen
Pumpkin flavored treats are my greatest weakness. I’m a sucker for a spongy pumpkin + dark chocolate cookie, pumpkin-flavored drinks and traditional pumpkin coffee cake. Why not spend a weekend working through CountryLiving’s fall recipe roundup?
Coordinate Costumes
I love the idea of coordinating outfits, especially if we’re celebrating at home. It’ll make the holiday memorable regardless of the circumstances. My toddlers dressed as minions last year. The costumes were stinking cute, quick and easy to pull together–we used a mix of new and existing pieces from their closets. The best part was that they got to wear everything casually afterward. Nearly a year later, they’re still wearing these yellow beanies.
Here’s the MINION costume breakdown:
Backyard Fall Festival
If Trick-or-Treating is still up in the air, plan a backyard festival. I’m talking a themed photo op, pumpkin painting, a few rounds of corn hole, cornbread + chili and Monster Mash blaring on the bluetooth speakers. It doesn’t have to be fancy (or expensive!). Thanks to Pinterest, you can practically DIY the whole thing.
Neighborhood Pumpkin Parade
Another option for the 31st is to plan a neighborhood pumpkin parade. This really is as simple as it sounds. Text a few neighbors, tell them to invite their friends and pick a time to parade through the streets. Your kids can wear their costumes, everyone can socially distance and on-lookers can throw candy into the parade route for walkers to collect along the way.
Send Snail Mail
Is there anything better than getting mail? I’m hoping to print a few photos and send some cards to friends + family. It’s a good excuse to support the USPS (I really like buying fun stamps!), update loved ones and spread a bit of festive, fall cheer.
Go for a Scenic Drive, Nature Walk or Hike
Need a mood boost? Scientists across the board agree that spending time outside can instantly lift your spirits. I’m thinking a Sunday drive with the windows down is just what the doctor ordered. It’s a great way to see the changing leaves and soak up the crisp fall air. If you’re Utah local, here are 8 scenic hikes that promise really colorful views!
Drop Off Goodie Bag Treats
I just ordered cellophane bags to make goodie bags and surprise our neighborhood friends. We’re planning to fill them with pre-packaged snacks + treats (things I can inexpensively buy in bulk from Costco). This kind of activity also doubles as an afternoon of toddler fun. My girls will love the idea of being Halloween helpers.
Schedule + Take Family Photos
Go ahead and check a BIG to-do off your list, and schedule photos now. Due to the pandemic, a lot of photographers are offering socially-distanced sessions. (Feel free to reach out if you need some good Salt Lake City based recs!) Cooler temps, changing colors and fall layers make this an ideal time to pose for a round of photos.
Visit an Orchard, Farm or Pumpkin Patch
We’ve already established that nature is good for the soul. Pack up the SUV, grab a picnic lunch along the way and head to the nearest orchard, farm or pumpkin patch. This is such an easy way to support small businesses and shop local. UT friends: here’s Yelp’s roundup to start your search.
How are you celebrating the season? What are your fall things to do?
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