Fall has always been my favorite season. The crisp air, the fashion, the colors, I love it all. So my first fall in San Francisco I was pretty disappointed. I was used to my New england fall: Dunkin Donuts’ iced pumpkin mochas, red and orange leaves everywhere, apple picking, hayrides, big scarves and so much more. I got none of that here in SF. Pumpkin spice is everywhere, but it still wasn’t the typical fall I was used to. This year I am determined to make it feel like fall, like my New England red orange explosive fall, here in the bay area.
Pumpkin Patch
Growing up, apple picking was a family tradition. There were hayrides, corn mazes, animals, and best of all fresh apple cider donuts. Coming to San Francisco I was dissapointed to find out that there are no apple orchards close to the city (at least none that are easily accessible by public transportation). I figured if I can’t go apple picking, I might as well find the next best thing: gong to a pumpkin patch. I was happy to find out that there is a pumpkin patch right int he city! I dragged my roomies for a day of fall fun at the pumpkin patch, and got my first taste of fall in SF.
Costume 5K
This may not be everyone’s cup of tea — it sure isn’t mine — but there is a Costume 5K in Golden Gate Park. It takes place on October 29 and is exactly what it sounds like: everyone gets dressed up in their costumes and runs through Golden Gate Park. If running is your thing, this is perfect!
Pumpkin Everything
It wouldn’t be so popular if it wasn’t so damn good! Enjoy your pumpkin spice latte. Buy every pumpkin product from trader joe’s. Indulge in the goodness that is pumpkin spice. It only comes once a year so embrace it!
Treasure Island
If you’re lazy like me, you’ve probably never been to a Treasure Island Flea Market simply because it’s far away (honestly not too bad, I’m just REALLY lazy sometimes). But now is your chance! Treasure Island Flea is having a costume party on October 28 and 29! Come check out Treasure Island dressed in your costume, support local artists and enjoy the beautiful views of San Francisco!
Host a Pumpkin Carving Party or Friendsgiving
Embrace your inner child and get creative carving pumpkins — A perfect way to end your pumpkin patch visit! If pumpkin carving isn’t your thing, host a Freindsgiving! Who doesn’t love an excuse to stuff their faces with Thanksgiving food?
Binge Watch Halloween Movies
One of the best parts of any holiday season, is the excuse to binge watch movies, especially old Disney channel movies. Grab some hot cider, pumpkin flavored snacks (#obvi) and take a night — or day — to relax and watch some of your old favorites!
Fall still isn’t the same (I really just need Dunkin’ Donuts), but with these fun activities, fall in the bay area feels a bit more like home.