Have you created your fall bucket list yet? If you are among the 400,000 active-duty members who relocated this summer, then this is your first fall in a new location. Or perhaps you are still settling into a new base and now is the fall to get out and explore. Whether new or the base is old hat, this fall is a great time to learn about the place the military has you calling home. Fall is a season full of natural beauty, making it easy to find activities that are both fun and affordable. Here are some budget-friendly ideas for exploring the area where you live while building wonderful family moments this autumn.
1. Explore Local Parks and Nature Trails
One of the best ways to enjoy the fall season is by exploring local parks and nature trails. Make a day of it by packing a picnic with seasonal treats like apple slices, cheese, and warm cider. Encourage your kids to collect fallen foliage to create a nature-inspired craft at home. You could even turn it into a scavenger hunt by making a list of items to find, or you could check out the local or state parks website before going to see if there is a pre-made scavenger list. This is a fun way to engage with the outdoors and learn about the local environment while getting fresh air and exercise.
2. Visit a Local Farm or Orchard
Fall is synonymous with apple picking, pumpkin patches, and harvest festivals. Many local farms and orchards offer affordable activities like hayrides, corn mazes, and petting zoos. Choose a farm that allows you to pick your own apples or pumpkins. Not only is this a great way to support local farmers, but it also provides an opportunity to teach kids where their food comes from.
After the trip, use the goodies collected from the trip to try new recipes. Cooking and baking as a family are perfect ways to build warm memories, and you’ll have delicious treats to show for it!
3. Create a Fall-Themed Outdoor Movie Night
You can turn your backyard or patio into an outdoor movie theater with a few blankets, pillows, and a portable projector. Choose a family-friendly fall movie, like “It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown,” and serve seasonal snacks like popcorn with cinnamon, hot chocolate, or spiced apple cider. If you have a fire pit, consider roasting marshmallows for s’mores. The earlier sunset will make for an earlier movie time.
Consider including neighbors and friends to join in the fun.
4. Host a Backyard Campfire or Storytelling Evening
Gather around a backyard campfire or portable fire pit for a night of storytelling and songs. Encourage everyone to share a favorite ghost story or a personal adventure or take turns reading from a favorite children’s book. You can also have fun creating new stories together by playing a “pass the story” game, where each person adds a sentence to the story as you go around the circle. This activity costs little to nothing and provides a cozy way to enjoy the cooler evenings while engaging in creative storytelling and laughter.
5. Plan a Scenic Drive or Bike Ride
Enjoy the beautiful fall foliage by planning a scenic drive or bike ride around your area. Research routes that offer the best views of the changing leaves or follow a trail that leads to a local landmark or a quaint town. Make it a photo adventure by bringing a camera or smartphone to capture the beautiful colors, exciting sights, and candid family moments. Create a photo book or digital slideshow afterward to remember the day. This simple activity encourages appreciation for nature and provides an excellent backdrop for some impromptu family photos.
6. Host a DIY Craft Day with Natural Elements
Bring the beauty of fall into your home by hosting a DIY craft day using natural elements found in your backyard or during a walk. Live near the beach? Collect shells, sand or washed-up coral. Living where there area season? Collect leaves, twigs, pinecones, and acorns. Use the natural elements to create wreaths, garlands, or centerpieces. You can also make leaf rubbings or use leaves as stamps to create unique artwork. These crafts are not only inexpensive but also offer a great way add some seasonal décor without spending a ton at the store.
7. Participate in a Local Fall Festival or Community Event
Check your local community calendar for free or low-cost fall festivals, farmers’ markets, or Halloween parades. Many towns and cities host pumpkin festivals, craft fairs, and outdoor concerts. Check the local library calendar or your town or base calendar for events. Attending these community gatherings is a great way to meet neighbors, support local businesses, and enjoy the season’s festive atmosphere and learn how the local area celebrates the season.
8. Start a Family Tradition of Gratitude
Autumn is a season of thanksgiving and reflection. Start a new family tradition by creating a gratitude jar. Throughout the season, encourage each family member to write down things they are thankful for on small pieces of paper and place them in the jar. Read them together on Thanksgiving or at the end of fall and reflect on all the positive moments you’ve shared.
Fall is the perfect season to slow down and appreciate the little things with your family. By taking advantage of these budget-friendly activities, you can explore your local area while creating warm, lasting memories. So, grab a sweater (or light sweater depending on where you currently call home), gather your loved ones, and make the most of this beautiful season
Leave a Reply