Autumn is such an enchanting time, especially here at the foothills of the Smoky Mountains. There is so much natural beauty to take in, the changing color of the leaves, cool breeze and the smell of pumpkin lingering through the crisp air. Sadly this season seems be over in a flash. Here are 25 fun fall activities that will nurture your emotional and mental health to take advantage of before the cold winter arrives!
- See fall foliage: Take a quaint drive or mindful walk through the rows of golden yellow and scarlet red trees.
- Take a hayride: This family friendly activity is a season staple.
- Pumpkin patch: What better way to bake a pumpkin pie than with a fresh handpicked pumpkin. Plus, running around, searching for the ideal one is an experience in itself!
- Pumpkin carving: Carving pumpkins is the perfect way to channel your seasonal creativity.
- Apple picking: Fresh apples are abundant in the fall and make the best apple pies and applesauce.
- Attend a fall festival: Most communities offer fall festivals as fundraisers and the chance to meet your neighbors.
- Golf: This outdoor sport is relaxing and can be played well into the fall months.
- Hike: There is no place like the mountains to enjoy the lower humidity and the changing leaves.
- Make your own latte: We all love Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Latte, but making your own can be more rewarding and just as delicious!
- Go to a football game: Until the end of November it is the season to cheer on your favorite professional or college team.
- Horseback riding: It is quite rewarding to push your anxiety and fear aside to bond with an animal as large as a horse.
- Have a bonfire: Relax and unwind with loved ones surrounded by the warmth and glow of a fire.
- Go zip lining: Another fun outdoor activity that is most beautiful during this season.
- Have a picnic: Picnics can be both romantic or amusing, but most importantly they bring loved ones together.
- Read outside: The cooler temperatures make even simple changes such as reading outside nourishing to the soul.
- Fly a kite: The air is windy and light, making it perfect for flying a kite.
- Wear a cozy scarf: Snuggling up with a warm scarf can be both fashionable and cozy.
- Bake, cook or juice with apples, caramel and cinnamon: Caramel apples, cinnamon apple cider and baked apple pie are fall signatures.
- Buy new boots: This is the time to make the switch from flip-flops and sandals to the classic fall boot!
- Roast over the fire: S’mores and hotdogs are undoubtedly better over an open fire.
- Volunteer: The winter months are often swamped with volunteers; get a head start by helping out at a soup kitchen or local food drive.
- Pick and harvest pecans: Mid-October through the end of December is the peak of pecan season.
- Make a fall wreath: Decorate your door using sticks, leaves, acorns and pinecones straight from the ground.
- Plan a trip: Whether it be to the city or the beach, fall is the perfect time to plan a relaxing getaway.
- Go to the ballet: The ballet and live theater are rich in classical favorites from October through December.
Although most of these can be done all year round, there is something quite magical about cherishing those brisk few months of autumn.
