Making the Most of the Season

The fall season is upon us and with that comes colorful leaves, crisp cool air, and pumpkin everything. While there are many people who mourn the summertime sunshine, fall has its share of joyous activities that many of us overlook. With Christmas time approaching in the distance, several of us cut back on spending in order to have funds for expenses such as events and gifts. Now, this time of saving money does not mean you must stay in and waste time until the winter season begins. There are plenty of things to do now that can assist in celebrating this colorful season. In addition to these activities being amusing, they also come at a reasonable price. To highlight the wonders of this season, I’ve compiled a list of ten autumn activities that cost next to nothing. Make the most of this heartwarming season and don’t let it “fall” through the cracks.

  1. Have A Campfire – Add some marshmallows for a sticky-sweet treat.

  2. Play In The Leaves – Make your raking fun: jump into a pile or even make a leaf-angel.

  3. Go To The Park – Pack up some food for an afternoon picnic or play outdoor games with family and friends.

  4. Go For A Hike – Enjoy the fresh air and exercise at a local or state park.

    • ​​Matter Park – Marion, IN – http://www.showmegrantcounty.com/what-to-do/matter-park/

    • Mounds State Park – Anderson, IN – http://www.in.gov/dnr/parklake/2977.htm

    • Kokiwanee Nature Preserve – 5825 E 50 S, Lagro, IN 46941

    • Hathaway Preserve At Ross Run – 1866 E Baumbauer Rd, Wabash, IN 46992

    • Indiana Preserves – https://www.in.gov/dnr/naturepreserve/4698.htm

  5. Carve A Pumpkin – Pick up a pumpkin at your local market and get creative with  

    funny faces or playful patterns. Pumpkins can be found at Aldi for less than $3.00.

  6. Visit A Local Corn Maze – Challenge yourself or have a competition on who can get through it the fastest.

    • Kendall Family Farm Adventures – Greentown, IN – http://www.kendallfamilyfarmadventures.com/

    • Temple Baptist Church – Kokomo, IN – http://www.templebaptistkokomo.com/kokomo-corn-maze

    • Indianapolis Orchard – Indianapolis, IN – http://www.indianapolisorchard.com/visit/

  7. Go To A Fall Festival – Find a local church or school that is hosting an event filled with autumn activities for the whole family to enjoy.

    • Mississinewa 1812 – Marion, IN –  http://www.mississinewa1812.com/

  8. Bake With Pumpkin – Try one of hundreds of pumpkin recipes on Pinterest. Here are just a few options – http://allrecipes.com/recipes/1090/fruits-and-vegetables/vegetables/squash/winter-squash/pumpkin/.

  9. Have A Fall Photoshoot – Photograph friends and family using the backdrop of a local park, a flowing stream, or a covered bridge.

  10. Visit An Apple Orchard – Pick your own fresh apples straight from the tree! Some apple orchards even offer hayrides, farm animals, concerts, and pony rides for kids

    • ​Phil’s U – Pick Apple Orchard – Huntington, IN – https://www.facebook.com/philsupickappleorchard/

    • McClure’s Orchard – Peru, IN – http://www.mccluresorchard.com/

    • Indianapolis Orchard – Indianapolis, IN – http://www.indianapolisorchard.com/visit/