Family-Friendly Ideas to Celebrate Autumn
The autumnal equinox is upon us. Cue in the cider donuts, crunchy orange leaves, and sweater weather. Once you are finished planning an epic Halloween costume and baking a pie with the apples you picked last weekend, check out these family-friendly fall activities:
Go Leaf Peeping from the Comfort of Your Bike
Think a hike is the only way to see the trees? Think again. With its cool breezes and scenic views, fall promises the perfect temperature for taking the old wheels for a spin. With lots of New England Bike Tours to choose from, you’re bound to find a breathtaking ride to suit your fancy. If you’d prefer to go solo on your route, check out the Adventure Cycling Association’s Free Maps which will tell you everything you need to know to be on your way.
(Of course, you can always try a more traditional approach to leaf peeping by checking out the best places to see fall foliage here. Bonus if you collect enough leaves to make a wreath).
Plant Flower Bulbs in Your Garden
While some flower bulbs won’t survive the harsh winter, fall is actually the best time to plant hardy bulbs such as tulips and daffodils. If you fear all things green, don’t fret– it’s pretty hard to get this wrong. Just follow these simple instructions and your flowers will be sure to come up smiling in the spring! Bulb planting is a great activity to do with young kids who are eager to get down and dirty.
Host a Potluck with the Neighbors
The holidays offer an excuse to reach out and meet your community, and what better way to do it than with food? An informal potluck provides an opportunity to strike up a conversation with the shy man across the street or the young family down the block.
Show off your cooking skills with Grandma’s classic sweet potato pie or try something new with these fall recipes. Feeling extra crafty? Consider making your own handmade invitations.
Snuggle Up with a Good Book
After spending lots of time out and about, there’s often nothing better than curling up with a cup of tea and a good book. Nothing new on the shelf? Take a family trip to your local library to find a fall read for everyone. (The best part is that libraries often have fall programs to keep kids busy).
Share your favorite ideas for the season!

