I often have trouble picking a favorite season because they all offer something refreshing and comforting. I will admit, in my early adult years, as I found myself caught up in the daily grind, I stopped appreciating how fortunate I am to live in a place where we truly experience the glory of winter, spring, summer, and fall. Having kids made me realize the importance of acknowledging the best of each with the hopes of creating memories similar to the ones I carry from my own childhood. The following are some of my favorite autumn activities. Traditional, yet guaranteed to add the warm and fuzzies.
- Apple picking is a September staple in New England. Take a family trip to a local orchard, and enjoy the fruits of your labor (whomp whomp) for days to come. Whether you bake them into a pie, dip them in caramel, or enjoy straight up, there’s nothing quite like the crispness of a farm fresh apple you picked yourself. It’s an added bonus if there are cider donuts involved. Sunnycrest Farms in Londonderry is our favorite spot. You can even visit the goats. :)
- Speaking of animals, fall is a great time to check out a local farm. I grew up down the street from Carriage Shack Farm in Londonderry, and, last year, Dave and I took the kids. We enjoyed pony rides, the petting zoo, and a hayride (complete with complimentary snacks). In addition to all the fun, I honestly think it was nice for the kids to see three generations of family working together to maintain their legacy. Good stuff!
- Carving pumpkins together is a quintessential fall family activity. The gooey feeling of pumpkin guts, seeing your jack o’ lantern glowing outside, and chowing down on toasted seeds make it totally worth the time this fall.
- Decorate. This can be done on any budget. Whether it’s going all out or adding a few small decorations, it’s all about expressing enthusiasm for the change of season. Get the kids involved by having them help or allowing them to place a knickknack or two in their bedrooms/playroom. For each season/holiday, I buy cheap window clings at Market Basket or Walmart and let the kids stick them to the back door.
- Even though us Northerners are used to being outside year round, as the temperatures cool and daylight wanes, you’ll likely find yourself spending more time indoors. Keep the youngsters entertained by completing a few seasonal crafts. Spray paint some pinecones and acorns and display in mason jars. Gather some leaves to frame or use as stencils for paint. Or, if you’re feeling really crafty and ambitious, make your own scarecrow. The bonus is that these creations can help add to your fall decor.
- Camp out in the yard. Even if your family is used to the great outdoors, a backyard campout is a wonderful way to enjoy the last bits of sunshine. A fire pit, lots of cozy blankets and pillows, snacks, s’mores fixins, and a board game or two are essential to the ambiance.
- It’s fair season! Eat your way through one while your kids have fun checking out all the animals, farm equipment, and amusements. Our favorite, and, in all fairness, the only fair I’ve been to, is the Deerfield Fair. Fresh cut french fries, lemonade, chocolate milk, and the lobster roll in the butter-sherry sauce are our must-haves.
- Appreciate the foliage. Cruise through the mountains, or, simply take some time in your daily travels to admire the view. A tradition in our family is to visit the Fall Foliage Festival in Groton, VT. We are so, so fortunate to have this beauty in our backyards.
I hope the above suggestions are helpful. No matter how you pass your time this fall, remember it’s all about making memories.
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