Fall is filled with back-to-school routines, festivals, and holiday traditions. With all that busyness, it’s easy to lose sight of spending time together. The fun doesn’t have to be complicated—just a little bit of planning and intention goes a long way in making lasting memories.
Whether you’re looking for new traditions or fun ways to reconnect, here are five simple ideas to help make the most of the fall season with your family. Choose a couple of options that work for you and your crew, then—this is important—put the events on your calendar!
Go to a Football Game
Whether it’s high school, college, or NFL, deck out the entire family in mascot colors or spirit-wear and cheer on your team together. Even if you’re not a sports fan, rallying around a common cause is not only fun but brings the family closer. Plus, the energy of a live game is contagious and makes for a memorable experience.
Bake Together
Fall is the perfect time for baked goods—pumpkin pie, apple cobbler, or cherry turnovers. Pick a recipe and even make the shopping part of the experience! Create a list and challenge your kids to find the ingredients. When it’s time to bake, give everyone a task, then enjoy the delicious results together. Bonus points if you double down on the recipe and share some with a neighbor!
Visit a Corn Maze
A fall staple! For younger kids, there’s usually a petting zoo or carnival games alongside the maze. For older kids, the maze is the perfect opportunity for your family to work together and conquer a challenge. You might be surprised how well (or hilariously) you all collaborate when it comes to navigating your way out!
Nature Hike
Get outside! Round up the troops and take a nature hike together. Even a quick 15-minute walk can be a great reset button for your family. Take it up a notch by making a list of things to spot in nature (like red birds, running water, or squirrels) and turn the hike into a scavenger hunt. You’ll get some fresh air and fun competition at the same time!
S’more Than S’mores
Everyone loves s’mores, but why not get creative with your ingredients? Take a trip to the grocery store and grab the usual supplies plus a few extra twists.
Try . . . • An Oreo instead of a graham cracker
• A chocolate chip cookie instead of a graham cracker
• Nutella® instead of a chocolate bar
• Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup instead of a chocolate bar
• Add salted caramel or a fruit topping
Take it to the next level by having each family member create their own signature s’more. Make it fun by giving the dessert a name before serving it to the family. You’ll have delicious treats and some good laughs as you compare everyone’s creations.
No matter what activities you choose, the most important part is spending time together and making the most of the fall season. Whether you’re cheering at a game, hiking in nature, or getting creative in the kitchen, these moments are what bring families closer. So choose your favorite ideas, put them on your calendar, and enjoy the season!
Topics: Celebrations, Family Activities, Featured
Holly Crawshaw
Contributor
Holly Crawshaw is a writer and editor who eats sour candy and laughs at her own jokes. A self-proclaimed cat-lady, Holly was on staff with North Point Ministries for eight years, working with volunteers, kids, and students. Holly currently serves as Lead Writer for Life Stage Strategies at Orange/The Rethink Group. Holly is raising three daughters, Lilah (the silly one), Esmae (the charming one), and Sailor (the sweet one) in her hometown of Cumming, GA.
