Happy Autumn! It’s officially the season of cozy sweaters, pumpkin spice everything, and crisp, cool air. As October arrives, so do the familiar sights and sounds of fall—vibrant leaves crunching underfoot, festive decorations on doorsteps, and the buzz of excitement leading up to Halloween. But beyond the spooky fun, this month also brings opportunities to reflect on the changing seasons, connect with our community, and embrace the traditions that make autumn such a special time of year. It’s the perfect month to celebrate autumn before the awkward Halloween to Christmas transition (sorry Thanksgiving). Whether you’re diving into haunted tales, gearing up for fall sports, or simply enjoying a warm drink, October has something for everyone.
Attend a Football Game
Fall is practically synonymous with football season, and whether you’’re cheering on your high school team under the Friday night lights or catching college or professional games on TV, football is a staple of autumn fun. There’’s something uniquely exciting about the atmosphere at a live game. Bundle up in cozy layers, grab a warm drink, and head to the stands to experience the buzz of the crowd. From the energetic rhythms of the marching band to the tension of a nail-biting play, football games are more than just sports—they’re an autumn tradition that brings people together. Even if you’re not a football fan (like me), the social aspect of these events is what makes them so memorable. They’re a perfect way to spend time with friends, show school spirit, and be part of the action.
Be sure to bring a few friends along for the full experience—games are as much about bonding and enjoying the atmosphere as they are about the sport itself. IHS recently kicked off the football season with our first game, and with many more lined up in the coming weeks, there’s plenty to look forward to. Whether you’re attending for the love of the game or simply to enjoy the community spirit, make sure to keep an eye out for school-wide announcements and mark your calendar for the next one!
Go Camping (or Glamping)
If you’ve never gone camping before, autumn is the perfect time to try it. The cooler weather, changing leaves, and cozy atmosphere of the season is ideal for any activities in nature. While it’s true that camping takes you out of the comfort of your home, getting a little dirty is part of the adventure. Camping can be enjoyed both alone or with family and friends. Going solo offers you the serenity of appreciating nature free from the distractions of everyday life like your phone or social media. On the other hand, camping with family or friends offers a similar opportunity to enjoy the outdoors, but with the addition of being with the people you love most. Either way, camping in the fall gives you the chance to disconnect the hustle of everyday life and reconnect with the natural world around you.
If you love the idea of camping but prefer a touch of luxury, glamping is the perfect solution for enjoying the great outdoors without sacrificing comfort. You can still experience the joys of camping, just in a safer and more comfortable environment. You could even simulate the experience in your backyard. This autumn, consider planning a camping or glamping getaway for a memorable adventure to enjoy the beauty of fall and celebrate the season!
Halloween Night Hangout
Although some may believe that you can never be too old for Halloween, I think there’s at least a majority of people who can agree that there comes an age when you become too old for trick-or-treating. To make up the difference, why not elevate your Halloween night by hosting a fun hangout with your friends? You can gather around a bonfire to roast marshmallows and share spooky stories, eat way too much candy, or set the Halloween mood by projecting classic horror films to watch under the stars—this could even be tied into a glamping adventure! Whether you choose to dress up in costumes, carve pumpkins, or compete in Halloween-themed games, the possibilities for celebrating are endless. In the spirit of All Hallows Eve, focus on making it a night filled with laughter, thrills, and unforgettable memories.
Host/Attend a Friendsgiving
Even if you don’t celebrate Thanksgiving, Friendsgiving is the perfect way to celebrate the season of gratitude with the people you choose. It’s a fun, laid-back version of Thanksgiving, where everyone can come together to share a meal, make memories, and enjoy each other’s company. Hosting a Friendsgiving is all about creating a cozy, welcoming atmosphere, and the best part is that it doesn’t have to be formal. Have everyone contribute by bringing their favorite fall dish—whether it’’s homemade or store-bought—to create a delicious potluck-style feast. Think comfort foods like mashed potatoes, stuffing, pies, and maybe even a turkey, but the menu can be whatever you and your friends love. Add in some festive touches like candles, autumn decor, and maybe a gratitude circle to make the gathering special. Friendsgiving is a perfect way to embrace the spirit of the season and celebrate your closest friendships in a meaningful, fun way!
Have an Autumn Themed Baking Contest
There’s no better way to embrace the flavors of fall than by hosting an autumn-themed baking contest with friends. Imagine a kitchen filled with the sweet aroma of cinnamon, apples, and pumpkin spice as everyone bakes their favorite seasonal treats. From pumpkin pies and apple crisps to spiced cookies and caramel-drizzled cakes, the options are endless. To make things even more fun, you can add a creative twist by setting different categories, like “Best Use of Pumpkin,” “Most Original Fall Flavor,” or “Coziest Comfort Dessert.” Everyone can get involved by sharing their family recipes or experimenting with new ideas. And of course, no contest is complete without a panel of judges—whether it’’s friends, family, or fellow bakers—who get to sample everything and crown the ultimate fall baking champion. The best part? Even if you don’t win, everyone gets to enjoy the results! It’s not just about the competition, but about spending time together, sharing laughs, and celebrating the flavors of the season. You’ll end up with a table full of delicious autumn-inspired treats and memories to go along with it. So grab your mixing bowls, invite your friends, and get ready for an afternoon of fall fun, baking, and a little friendly competition!
Rake Your Leaves (and jump in them)
Keep your property clean.