Fall is always an amazing season. From the cool weather to the changing leaves to the cozy clothing, there are so many things to look forward to each year. As I’m sure is true for many of you, fall marks the beginning of many things: school, sports seasons, and the upcoming holidays. However, with COVID-19 regulations still in place, it’s important to remember that safety is a priority. Below are five ideas for making the most of this fall season:

1. Enjoy your favorite fall foods and drink (or make your own)

One of the staples of the fall season is pumpkin flavored everything. You’ll find pumpkin candies, drinks, desserts, and really anything you can think of. Apple, cinnamon, and cranberries are also popular flavors this time of year. No matter what you like, you’re guaranteed to find something delicious. If you’re looking for an enjoyable indoor activity, making your own fall meals at home is a great option. Some of my personal favorite recipes include apple pie and corn bread.

2. Snuggle under a blanket with a good movie, TV show, or book

As the weather slowly becomes colder, many of us are more likely to stay in the warmth of our homes. What better way to spend the day at home with your favorite movie or TV show? Movies like “You’ve Got Mail” and “Little Women” set the mood perfectly for the fall season. If you’re looking for some Thanksgiving themed shows to watch, shows like “Friends” and “Gilmore Girls” have some especially notable episodes. Books are also an enjoyable way to relax while getting away from screens. Check out NDP Gateway’s fall book list for some awesome recommendations.

3. Try out a new hobby

There are many hobbies out there that are perfect for starting in autumn. If you’re looking for something new and unique, try pressing leaves. With pressed leaves, you can create charming homemade decorations or even begin a collection. If you want a digital activity, try getting into photography. The beautiful fall scenery makes for the perfect subject matter. And if sports are your thing, maybe now’s the time to get into fantasy football. This activity is a wonderful way to make friends, improve decision-making, and embrace the spirit of competition.

4. Enjoy the fall weather and scenery on a walk or hike

In my opinion, fall weather is the best. The mixture of sunshine and breeze is always a fantastic motivator on walks and hikes. Not to mention, the color changing leaves make for gorgeous scenery (and photo ops). Going outside is also an easy way to get away from the computer screen and re-center. Additionally, with opportunities for athletics being limited, it’s important to stay fit by exercising regularly, even if it’s something as simple as going on a walk every so often.

5. Go to a farm, to a pumpkin patch, or apple picking

Even if you feel limited by social distancing practices, there are still many exciting places for you to go. For many local farmers, the arrival of fall is synonymous with the arrival of the harvest season. Whether you’re visiting as a volunteer or just a customer, going to a farm is always a good way to support local businesses while having fun. November is also the perfect time to go apple picking, especially with the peak of picking season coming to a close this month. Regardless of where you go, even if you choose not to take any produce home, you can still take the great experiences with you.

With the arrival of fall comes the arrival of one of my favorite holidays: Thanksgiving! Unfortunately, given the circumstances, we may no longer be able to hold all of the family traditions we’ve had in the past, but that doesn’t have to stop us from having fun. There are still many things we can do this Thanksgiving to celebrate! For some holiday enjoyment, try out some of the ideas below:

1. Keep track of what you’re thankful for

This Thanksgiving, it’s especially important to keep track of everything that we have to be grateful for. Despite all of the problems and worries that may plague our lives, we still have so much to give thanks for. We have our family and friends, the opportunity to go to school, and the beautiful weather. Keeping a journal, creating a note on your phone, or just listing five things you’re grateful for every night are some easy ideas for raising your awareness of all the things in life that make you thankful.

2. Host a Thanksgiving party over Zoom

Since we can no longer hold large gatherings in person, we can easily do them over Zoom. Zoom is a wonderful option for those who usually host large family gatherings every Thanksgiving. With Zoom, you’ll still be able to see and talk with family and friends and enjoy a home cooked meal (or takeout if that’s what you like) all while staying safe and healthy. In addition, you can still go around and have everyone say what they’re thankful for.

3. Set up outdoor entertainment

For some, Thanksgiving just isn’t the same without celebrating with those closest to you. In the event that you do get together with some family and friends, it may be a good idea to celebrate outdoors (if the weather isn’t too cold) or at least move the festivities there after you’re done eating. You can set up popular backyard games, such as cornhole, KanJam, and Spikeball, which are perfect for socially distant excitement.

4. Do some Thanksgiving arts and crafts

What better way to celebrate Thanksgiving than by spending time getting your creative juices flowing? No matter how old you are, arts and crafts are a surefire way to have fun. You can make your own Thanksgiving decorations, draw simple hand turkeys, or make beautiful fall wreaths. Whatever you do, you’ll definitely be kept occupied and you might even end up with a beautiful final product.

5. Get a head start on holiday shopping

As Thanksgiving comes to an end, it feels like Christmas is just around the corner. So why not spend some time by starting to think about those holiday gifts? As an added bonus, you won’t have to worry about the crowds and struggles of buying Christmas presents just days before!

Even though our plans might differ from the ones in years past, there are still many activities we can do to kick off this holiday season. Enjoy the fall and Thanksgiving season while it lasts! Like many things this year, the arrival of winter, Christmas, and the new year will be here before we know it. So, have fun, stay safe, and enjoy your 2020 fall and Thanksgiving!