Have you been super busy, but want to get into the fall spirit? Don’t worry, we’re in the same boat then. With classes, extracurricular activities, and work occupying my schedule, I haven’t felt much in the fall spirit. This past weekend I had a small chunk of free time and I decided to dedicate that time to really feel like I’m in fall. I’m sharing what I did to get into that spirit, some small things that shouldn’t take too much time and some bigger ideas I wish I could do soon.
I hope you take some of these ideas and try them out. It’s a great way to spend your free time. And don’t forget, it’s okay to step away from what you’re doing just for a small amount of time. Don’t burn yourself out or stress too much.
The smaller plans
Get a pumpkin/fall drink
I think the perfect way to kick off your fall experience is by getting a quick drink. So many cafes have been releasing new fall inspired drinks these past two months. I personally am a HUGE Starbucks fan, but I’m not just going to give you that one recommendation. I asked people around my campus where they like to get their fall inspired drinks and this is what I got:
- Starbucks
- Pumpkin Spice Latte
- Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew
- Apple Crisp Macchiato
- Iced Chai Tea Latte with Pumpkin Cold Foam
- Dunkin’
- Pumpkin Spice Signature Latte
- Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew
- Apple Cider Donut (not a drink but still recommended)
- Oromo Cafe Bucktown (This is a small cafe in the Downtown Chicago area that’s highly recommended!)
- Pumpkin pecan latte
Decorate your area
Even the smallest of decorations can lift up your spirit. Some of the places I recommended checking out decorations for a cheaper price include Target, Amazon, and Michaels. I linked some inspiration:
- Blanket
- Candle
- Lights
- Jars
- and smaller random decor
Bake something fall inspired
Baking can seem intimidating, especially with very little experience in the kitchen, but it can also be super fun! I linked some recipes that are easy to make and will for sure leave you excited for fall and Thanksgiving around the corner.
the bigger plans
Some of these ideas might not be so last minute, but it’s worth a try to squeeze into your schedule. Rather it’s with family, friends, or by yourself, doing these things would be super fun and get you in that fall spirit!
go to a pumpkin patch Or apple picking
I’m from Chicago but there is usually not many good pumpkin patches in the area, but here are some of the pumpkin patches I recommend for the people who live in Chicago too! Same thing goes for apple picking; my family and I usually go out of state for that, however I’ll stick the Chicago area. It might be a far drive for some people, but it’s something to keep in mind.
- Goebbert’s Pumpkin Farm & Garden Center
- Didier Farms
- Jack’s Pumpkin Pop Up
- Bengtson’s Pumpkin Farm
- Prairie Sky Orchard
- Honey Hill Orchard
plan a pumpkin carving date
Get together with your favorite people and carve pumpkins together! It’s a super fun time that allows you to bond and be creative. It’s super simple. You can pick up a pumpkin at a pumpkin patch or pumpkin place, or even at a store near your home. Stores like Jewel Osco and Home Depot sell pumpkins for a reasonable price. You can use tools that you have at home or you can pick up a special kit designated for pumpkin carving. This idea doesn’t require too much planning and it can even be used to decorate your house.
