The autumn chill is in the air, foliage is turning, and it’s that time of year when my spouse can’t resist shouting at the TV – yes, autumn has truly arrived! To me, autumn is the most delightful season due to the wonderful flavors it brings – apple, pumpkin, cinnamon – and the pure joy of wrapping up in my favorite sweater and comfortable jeans to enjoy a midday football game or to have fun at an autumn festivity. There is nothing quite like it!
Even with summer days behind us, there is still ample opportunity to chill out under the open sky and engage in fun yet economical activities. Seize the day, soak up the cool weather and engage in these eight pennywise autumn pursuits with your friends and family.
1. SCOUT FOR AUTUMN FESTIVALS
One of the best parts of autumn is the long-awaited arrival of local autumn festivals, and I have a particular fondness for them. Annually, our local newspapers list out the forthcoming festivals over the next few months, allowing me to organize my schedule in advance.
I thoroughly enjoy taking my daughter to these events, where she can explore arts and crafts, ride ponies, get her face painted, and savor autumn delicacies. A great way to greet the refreshing weather – and most of these autumn festivals are free, making them an excellent family outing.
2. APPLE PICKING
Go and pick your own apples while the season lasts. Although it might not be cheaper than buying them at your local store, the experience is unbeatable.
Apple picking supports local farmers, and it’s wonderful knowing the origin of your food. Imagine the dishes you can prepare from your pick! Pies baked from scratch, homemade applesauce, or caramel dipping sauce. It’s fun cooking with apples you’ve harvested yourself.
3. PUMPKIN CARVING
If you’re still in the mood for picking, pumpkin patches are also worth a visit. Being family-friendly and perfect for autumn family photos, these patches have a lot to offer.
Carving pumpkins with the kids is messy but fun. Line your table with old newspapers for easy clean-up later and let the kids enjoy the scooping. They will love the opportunity to get their hands dirty.
For older kids or competitive friends, a pumpkin carving contest is a good idea. The one with the best pumpkin carving skills can win a prize of your choosing – perhaps a pumpkin pie or a bag of Halloween candies. And it’s a good kickoff to plan frugal Halloween costumes or a Halloween gathering with friends.
4. TAILGATE FOR YOUR TEAM
Living in the south, fall means tailgating and football parties. Every supporter becomes their team’s biggest fan, passionately cheering them on.
Even if game tickets might be out of your budget, a tailgate can still be a memorable event. Often, the tailgate is even more entertaining than the game itself! Each participant can contribute their favorite dish, from chips and dips to a pot full of meatballs – remember to bring the corn hole boards!
5. GO FOR A HIKE
Autumn is an ideal season for hiking. With the leaves changing colors, comfortable temperatures, and absence of creepy crawlies, it’s the perfect time for an adventure.
A healthy and invigorating activity, hiking is a great way to add variety to your workout routine. Winter is just around the corner, and we’ll soon be confined indoors, so make the most out of the outdoors while you can.
6. SET UP A SCAVENGER HUNT
For those who are parents, consider arranging a scavenger hunt for your children. A fantastic way to get them outdoors and stimulate their thinking, a scavenger hunt is sure to be fun without being overly complicated.
Pinterest has plenty of ideas on creating engaging scavenger hunts. Whether it’s an intricate hunt with clues or a simple nature walk with a checklist of objects to be found, any option will entertain your younger audience.
7. TACKLE A CORN MAZE
If you have yet to experience a corn maze, you’re missing out on a fun adventure. Grab a few friends and navigate through the twists and turns. Most mazes even have riddles that you need to solve to exit, adding an element of challenge.
Or if you like a good scare, try a haunted corn maze at night. But be prepared and bring an extra pair of pants in case the frights are too much!
8. START A BONFIRE
Ignite a fire in your fire pit, arrange the chairs, and hand out marshmallows on sticks to everyone. Roasting marshmallows over an open flame is a beloved tradition in our family.
An inexpensive treat loved by children and adults alike, roasting marshmallows is best coupled with hot chocolate on a chilly evening. Nothing says autumn like a cozy bonfire and sweet marshmallow delights.
Whatever you choose to do this autumn, maximize your outdoor activities as winter will be here soon, bringing with it heavy coats and snow boots! What are your preferred thrifty autumn activities to enjoy with family and friends? Do you relish outdoor activities during the autumn? And do you love the range of pumpkin and apple flavored treats as much as I do?
