Ways to Fall into Fun
Last updated: February 27, 2025, at 3:43 p.m. PT
Originally published: October 8, 2020, at 2:06 p.m. PT
As the season changes, we've put together some fun, fall-inspired activities the whole family can enjoy!
Paint Pumpkins
Nothing is more iconic for fall than the beautiful glow of a ripe pumpkin. Pull out your paint, glitter, stickers, or a pumpkin decorating kit. Skip the mess of carving and let every family member creatively design their pumpkin with these great ideas.
Bake Fall Treats
Imagine the smells of fall and transform them into delicious treats the whole family can enjoy. Apple Pie in a Cup, Baked Pumpkin Donut Holes, and Pumpkin Spice Krispie Treats are a few of our favorite morsels.
Decorate for the Season
Build a scarecrow with hay or old newspaper for the stuffing. Dig up some old clothes and accessories around your house for the outfit. You can also visit a local thrift store to dress your scarecrow. Or create a simple leaf wreath! Go on a nature walk and gather some beautifully colored leaves. Simply cut the center of a paper plate into a wreath shape, adhere the leaves with glue, and adorn with a ribbon to hang.
Make a Giant Leaf Pile
Grab your rakes and get to work! Is there anything more fun than jumping into a freshly swept pile of fall leaves?! Don’t forget to take a video to relive the fun.
Read Seasonal Books
Here’s a list (with links!) of some of our favorite fall-themed books they whole family will enjoy:
- Leaves by David Ezra Stein (Preschool - Grade 1)
- Autumn Leaves by Ken Robbins (Kindergarten-Grade 3)
- Fletcher and the Falling Leaves by Julia Rawlinson (Grade 2- Grade 4)
- We're Going On a Leaf Hunt by Steve Metzger (Preschool -Grade 3)
- Why Do Leaves Change Color? by Betsy Maestro (Kindergarten - Grade 4)
- There Was An Old Lady Who Swallowed Some Leaves by Lucille Colandro (Preschool - Grade 2)
- A Tree for All Seasons by Robin Bernard (Grade 3-7)
Get Outdoors!
Go to the beach! Yes, the beach! Although you may need to bundle up, the smell of seawater and the breeze will surely refresh you.
If that’s not your thing, hit the trails for a family-friendly urban hike through a local park. Mercer Slough Nature Park on Mercer Island, Point Defiance Park in Tacoma, Discovery Park in Seattle or Grand Ridge Trail Park in Issaquah are all great options for families.
Watch a Football Game
Go Hawks! Prepare some healthy snacks, wear your team’s gear, and get your cheer on! Go Hawks!
Walk or Run in a Race
These Halloween-themed running events give you another reason to don your costume! Register for the Trick or Treat 5k in Seattle on Sunday, October 27, the West Seattle Monster Dash on Saturday, October 26, or the Run Scared 5k at Seward Park on Sunday, October 29.
Make a Fruity Halloween Treat
With Halloween approaching, it's time to get creative in the kitchen! These fruity and fun treats are sure to please – Candy Corn Fruit Cups, Banana Ghost Pops or Silly Apple Bites.