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25 Fun and Inexpensive Things to Do in the Fall

25 Fun and Inexpensive Things to Do in the Fall

  |     |   Parents and Kids

Fall is a season bursting with vibrant colours, crisp air, and cozy activities. Whether you're with family, friends, or enjoying some solo time, there's no shortage of fun to be had. Here’s a list of 25 fun and affordable things to do in the fall for families, kids, and adults alike.

Fun Things to Do in the Fall

For Families

1. Apple Picking
Spend a day at a local orchard picking apples. It's a fun outdoor activity for all ages and gives you the chance to bring home fresh, delicious fruit for pies, snacks, or cider-making.

2. Visit a Pumpkin Patch  
Find a local pumpkin patch where the whole family can pick pumpkins, take pictures, and enjoy seasonal treats like pumpkin spice donuts.

3. Have a Picnic in the Park  
Pack a lunch and head to a local park to enjoy the fall foliage. It's a simple, affordable way to spend quality family time in nature.

4. Attend a Fall Festival  
Check out local fall festivals that often feature hayrides, corn mazes, face painting, and live music. These festivals are usually family-friendly and budget-conscious.

5. Host a Fall Movie Night 
Create a cozy movie night at home with fall-themed movies, blankets, popcorn, and warm apple cider. Choose seasonal classics like Hocus Pocus or It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown.

6. Take a Scenic Drive  
This is one of the most beloved things to in the fall. Go for a scenic drive through areas known for their autumn landscapes. Bring some hot chocolate and enjoy the stunning colours of the changing leaves. 

7. DIY Fall Crafts  
Gather leaves, pinecones, and other natural items to make autumn-themed crafts like wreaths or table centerpieces. It’s a fun way to engage kids in creative, hands-on activities.

8. Rake Leaves and Jump In  
Get everyone involved in raking leaves and let the kids (or adults!) jump into the pile. It’s free, fun, and a great way to bond while getting some yard work done.

9. Make a Gratitude Tree 
Create a "gratitude tree" with paper leaves where each family member writes down what they're thankful for throughout the season. Display it as a reminder of positivity and thankfulness.

10. Bake Pumpkin Treats Together  
Spend an afternoon in the kitchen with the family baking fall favourites like pumpkin pie, muffins, or cookies. You’ll enjoy both the process and the delicious results!

For Kids

11. Go on a Nature Scavenger Hunt 
Make a list of fall items (like acorns, pinecones, colourful leaves) and head outdoors for a scavenger hunt. Kids will love exploring and finding treasures.

12. DIY Bird Feeders  
Create homemade bird feeders using pinecones, peanut butter, and birdseed. Hang them outside and watch the birds come for a treat.

13. Build a Leaf Fort  
Gather piles of fallen leaves to create a fort or small play area. Kids can use their imaginations while getting some fresh air and exercise.

14. Host a Backyard Campfire  
Set up a small fire pit (with adult supervision) and roast marshmallows, tell ghost stories, and make s’mores. It's a great way to enjoy chilly fall evenings. No firepit? Turn on the fireplace channel!

15. Go on a Hayride
Many farms and pumpkin patches offer hayrides, giving kids a chance to enjoy a bumpy ride through scenic fall fields. Some hayrides are even themed for added fun.

16. Paint Pumpkins  
Instead of carving pumpkins, let younger kids paint them. It's less messy and still provides a creative outlet. Use washable paints to avoid permanent stains.

17. Visit a Corn Maze  
Challenge your family to navigate through a local corn maze. Many farms have kid-friendly versions that offer hours of fun and adventure.

18. Make Caramel Apples  
Create your own caramel apples by dipping apples into melted caramel and adding toppings like nuts, sprinkles, or chocolate. This activity is fun, and the results are delicious!

19. DIY Halloween Costumes  
Spend an afternoon making homemade Halloween costumes using items you already have at home. It encourages creativity and cuts down on store-bought costume costs.

20. Collect and Press Leaves  
Go on a leaf-collecting adventure and press your favourites between books. Kids can then use them to create beautiful fall collages or artwork.

For Adults

21. Test Out Fall Cocktails  
Try your hand at making autumn-inspired cocktails, like spiked cider, pumpkin-flavoured beverages, or cranberry mules. It’s a cozy way to celebrate fall flavours.

22. Go Wine Tasting at a Local Vineyard  
Many vineyards have harvest festivals or special fall events. It’s a relaxing way to spend an afternoon tasting local wines while enjoying beautiful fall scenery.

23. Host a Potluck Dinner  
Invite friends over for a fall-themed potluck. Everyone can bring their favourite comfort food, and it’s a great way to gather without breaking the bank.

24. Explore a Farmer’s Market  
Visit a local farmer’s market to stock up on seasonal produce like pumpkins, apples, and squash. Many markets also have baked goods and crafts to browse.

25. Try a New Hiking Trail  
Take advantage of the cooler weather and vibrant landscapes by hiking a new trail. Whether you prefer a challenging hike or a leisurely stroll, fall is the perfect time to explore.

Fall is the perfect time to embrace outdoor activities, seasonal treats, and cozy moments without spending a lot of money. Whether you're crafting with the kids, testing fall cocktails, or exploring local parks, these 25 inexpensive things to do in the fall can help you make the most of the season while creating lasting memories.

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