September Family Calendar
I can’t believe that the end of summer is almost here. With schools back in session, and the night-time temps dipping down into the 50s, it’s definitely beginning to feel like fall.
And while the fun and late mornings of summer well be DEEPLY missed around here, there are so many fall activities that our family adds to the calendar each year that make the upcoming month preeeeetty exciting. Besides, who can be mad about mulled cider and falling leaves??
Today we are bringing you our top 5 family fall activities - and a friendly reminder to our readers that family is exactly what you define it to be. You don’t need kids to enjoy this fun! So in case you are thinking about what to do to get out of the house (or don’t have the brain space to think about it) get your ideas flowing with our helpful list.
The Holiday Fun September Family Calendar is officially available for free download. So grab yours now by clicking the link below to download the pdf, print it out, and get to planning the fun.
Top 5 Fun Fall Family Activities
1. Apple Picking
Summary: Head to a local orchard to pick your own apples straight from the trees. Many orchards offer more than just picking—you can often find hayrides, corn mazes, and farm stores with fresh cider and baked goods. It’s an immersive experience that gets the family outdoors and connects you with nature and where your food comes from.
Why it Made the List: Apple picking is the quintessential September activity. It’s a timeless tradition that appeals to all ages and provides a tangible reward—a bounty of fresh, delicious fruit. The trip itself is an adventure, and the apples you bring home can be used for the next activity on this list!
2. Family Baking
Summary: Use the apples you've picked (or just grab some from the store) to bake delicious fall treats together. This could be anything from classic apple pie or crisp to pumpkin bread or cinnamon rolls. It's a great indoor activity for a rainy day or a fun way to wind down after an outdoor adventure. Kids can help with everything from measuring ingredients to kneading dough and decorating.
Why it Made the List: Family baking is a wonderful way to teach kids practical life skills in a fun and creative environment. The kitchen becomes a place for collaboration and delicious results. The aromas of cinnamon, nutmeg, and fresh apples fill the house, creating a cozy and welcoming atmosphere that defines the start of fall.
3. Fall Movie Night
Summary: Get cozy with blankets, hot cocoa, and popcorn for a family movie night. Focus on films with a cozy or autumnal vibe that aren't necessarily Halloween-themed. A few options include:
Fantastic Mr. Fox (2009): A visually stunning stop-motion film by Wes Anderson with a warm, autumn-inspired color palette.
Paddington (2014): A charming and heartwarming movie about a Peruvian bear finding a home in London.
Little Women (2019): A beautiful and timeless story about family and sisterhood, with scenes that perfectly capture a crisp fall day.
Why it Made the List: A fall movie night is about creating a sense of comfort and togetherness. It's a low-stress activity that allows everyone to relax and enjoy each other's company. The non-Halloween movie options ensure it's a perfect activity for September, before the focus shifts to spooky season in October.
4. Wardrobe Clean-Out Fashion Show
Summary: As the weather cools, it's the perfect time to go through summer clothes. Instead of just folding them away, turn it into a fun event. Have each family member try on their summer wardrobe and do a "fashion show" to decide what to keep, what to store for next year, and what to donate. Play some music and take photos to make it feel like a real runway show.
Why it Made the List: This activity takes a chore—organizing and decluttering—and transforms it into a fun, interactive game. It teaches kids about giving to others and the value of a well-organized space. It's a practical way to prepare for the new season while having a good laugh together.
5. End-of-Summer Family and Friends Feast
Summary: Host a festive meal to celebrate the last official days of summer. This feast can be a potluck where everyone brings a dish, or the family can prepare a special meal together. Focus on using the last of the season's fresh produce, like corn on the cob, tomatoes, and peaches. A BBQ or a large family-style dinner are great options to mark the end of one season and the beginning of another.
Why it Made the List: This activity provides closure to the summer months and a formal welcome to fall. It's a wonderful opportunity to gather loved ones, share stories, and appreciate the moments you've had together. Sharing a meal is a timeless way to connect, and this feast makes the transition into the new season feel special and celebratory.
