Fall is here and whether you're team pumpkin or apple spice, I know there is at least one fall tradition we all look forward to this season. For me, it's festivals; music, great food, local vendors, and an activity to delight and entertain my little ones? My husband would say there is no better fall tradition than the first dive into the massive pile of leaves he's collected... to each his own, I guess
I've compiled a list of fall activities to keep your family moving this season and enjoying every bit of sweater weather you can!
My favorite! Lucky for me, our area is bursting at the seams with festivals this month! (Check out our Fall Fun Guide here) Festivals are a great way to get your family outside and enjoying all things fall. Community events are almost always free admission and often times the four legged kids are welcome also! I love stopping by local vendors tables to find craft-style items, spice blends, candles... you name it! It's always a great reminder of the local businesses and talent we have here right in our own backyards! Fall themed foods are usually available too, so pick up a cup of hot apple cider and enjoy listening to the band/music. Finally, it wouldn't be my number one pick for Macaroni KID readers if there weren't kids activities. From face painting, bounce houses, hayrides, pumpkin painting, and games each event will have unique activities to delight the kiddos! These events are often sponsored by local townships or non-profits, so you can feel good about supporting your community while soaking in all of the fall fun!
2). Take a Walk
Get outdoors and experience all nature has to offer this time of year. The trails are bursting with color, the air is crisp, and our forest friends are busy prepping for winter. My daughter has had a BLAST lately chasing squirrels; thankfully, she's only two and never comes close to catching them, but we have had a ton of fun observing. This week, I'm grateful to nature for providing us with the perfect outdoor classroom for learning, exploring, and tuckering out a toddler so momma has time to write during an extended nap!
Visit a local park, collect pine cones for a project, see who can find the most unique leaf, or if you have the time, check out the Schuylkill River Trail! Whether you walk, run, or bring the bikes, a day on the trail is the ideal way for nature lovers to spend a fall afternoon.
3). Creative Crafting
Kids love crafting and what better way to spend a rainy day?! The best part about fall crafts is you can use them to decorate your house for the season and the kids will be filled with pride seeing their "creations" on display. I love crafting, but admittedly, am not the best at thinking of creative ideas. If you're anything like me, we're in luck; Debbie at onelittleproject.com created a list of 40+ kid friendly crafts for fall!! From simple paper plate pumpkins to more elaborate tissue paper lined mason jar lanterns, this list has the perfect fall craft for your family to enjoy.
4). Visit a Local Orchard or Farm
Apple and pumpkin picking are staples of Fall, so of course they made the list! Hayrides, corn mazes, and apple cider donuts add to the magic of the annual trip to your favorite local hotspot! In addition to Livinnia, Highland, and Weaver's Orchards there are great farms in our area! Local farms provide the perfect backdrop for family fun and adventure. To keep the cost down you can opt to buy your pumpkins at the grocery store
Click here for our Pumpkin Patch Guide!
5). Jump in the Leaves
Sometimes it's the simple things. Always a fan favorite, jumping in the leaves is such a joyful event at our house --picking them up afterward, maybe not so much . There's no denying the exhilaration kids (and some adults!) get diving into a fresh pile of leaves, so if you have the opportunity, take the leap this season! Bonus: When you're done playing in them have the kids help stuff old jeans and a sweatshirt to make a homemade scarecrow. Prop it up on the porch for a no-cost Halloween decoration!
6). All Aboard! Take a Ride on the Colebrookdale Railroad or West Chester Railroad
If you've never taken a scenic tour to experience the wonder of fall foliage in Pennsylvania, you are missing out. Luckily, the Colebrookedale Railroad located in Boyertown can help remedy the situation! The Railroad is offering two hour scenic tours through Secret Valley complete with locally crafted fall treats and warm apple cider available for purchase. Tickets are on sale now (click here).
Ready. Set. Fall! Enjoy enjoy!!
