This post contains affiliate links, meaning that I'll make a comission if you purchase through my links, at no extra cost to you. You can read the full disclosure here.
This post is all about things to do in October to fully embrace your autumn spirit.
I don’t want to be a cliche by pointing out the obvious, but October is the month of transition, which makes it one of a kind.
As the leaves change color and the temperatures start to drop, we are reminded once again of the changing nature of life.
While you have the option to stay in your summer mourning zone, it’s probably healthier to embrace the coming season by transitioning into your fall spirit.
Whether you’re a fan of outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or cozying up in bed, October has something in store for everyone.
In this post, you’ll find 11 fun, spooky, and cozy October activities that will make you fall head over heels for the autumn magic.
Put on your coziest sweater (or a loose tee, in case it’s hot on your side of the world), grab a sweet drink, and get ready to make the most of this enchanting time of the year.
Happy October!
11 Fun Things To Do In October
1. Picnic And Poetry
October is the perfect time to escape the confines of your indoor routines and relish the great outdoors one last time before winter’s chill sets in.
Pack a cozy blanket along with a basket of your favorite autumn treats, and pick a quiet nature spot in your city where you can enjoy the fall foliage.
To romanticize things even further, bring a poetry book along for a cozy read.
Poems and autumn flow together like wine, and you’ll love reading your favorite verses while breathing in the crisp fall air.
I just unboxed my copy of The Sun And Her Flowers by Rupi Kaur and will be saving it exclusively for my solo outdoor adventures this fall.
2. Take A Fall-Themed Photo Walk
You don’t need a professional camera to be a photographer. Owning a phone makes you qualified to pursue seasonal photography.
This October, spare a day for a leisurely stroll through your neighborhood and capture the beauty of autumn on your phone.
Let this sweet outing be all about bringing your inner photographer to the surface (because we all have one.)
Also, make sure to click pictures on all your October outings and festivities.
You can store these pictures in a new folder of your gallery and give it a cute name (mine is called ‘October Wilderness’).
The idea of adding more pictures to your autumn folder will keep you inspired to pursue more fall activities.
Don’t miss: Simple Fall Morning Routine That Will Make Your Day Cozy
3. Cook A New Dish
I’m not a fan of cooking during the summer, and my winters are all about staying hidden under the blankets.
But the moment we step into October, my inner chef comes springing out.
Even if you’re not a fan of cooking, you have to admit that October is a lovely month to step into the kitchen.
This October, challenge yourself to cook a cuisine you’ve never tried before.
Whether it’s homemade sushi or Indian curry, experimenting with new flavors can be fun and delicious.
Of course, you can always go for a classic Pumpkin or apple dish. We are in the midst of fall, after all.
And if it doesn’t burn a hole in your pocket, you can even sign up for a cooking class that focuses on seasonal dishes, and master dishes like butternut squash risotto or caramel apple tarts.
Your family’s going to love you at next Sunday’s dinner!
4. Have A Spooky Movie Night
Even though Halloween lurks at the end of the month, the whole of October is pretty much about doing eerie things, and spooky movies are right at the top of the list.
If you are brave of heart, you can dive into your spooky night solo, or invite in your friends and siblings to make it more fun.
Choose a selection of classic horror films or thrilling new releases, set up a cozy viewing area with cushions and blankets, and settle in for a night of horror movie marathon.
Don’t forget your spread of Halloween-themed snacks. It’d be a crime to skip spicy popcorn, ghoulishly colored beverages, and those colorful candies.
Related: Relaxing Sunday Night Routine For A Better Week Ahead
5. Attend A Crafting Workshop
The October air carries a unique sense of inspiration that makes this month ideal for any artistic exploration.
Attend crafting workshops at the local art stores or community centers and learn to create autumn-themed crafts like wreaths, candles, or seasonal decorations.
You can also go for knitting, pottery, or painting (my pick for the season.)
These workshops will offer you a chance to hone your skills and meet some like-minded individuals.
If you’d rather explore your artistic spirit from the comfort of your house, YouTube will be your best friend.
There are tutorials for every craft on there that will make even the trickiest of DIY projects easy peasy for you.
6. Go On A Bike Ride
Even if you hate sweating yourself out, it can be refreshing to take your bike out for a spin once in a while, especially in the month of October.
Whether you choose to pedal along winding country roads, explore a scenic trail, or navigate through a charming town, biking is a thrilling way to connect with nature in its autumn glory.
The falling leaves and the sweet scent of the season will make your cycling experience unforgettable.
You can also bring along a sketchbook or journal to stop and draw or write about interesting things you encounter along the way.
You might like: 21 Interesting Hobbies For Adults To Enhance Your Routine Life
7. Journal While Listening To A Fall-Themed Playlist
I sometimes think journaling was crafted with the idea of autumn in mind, and it’s something I double down on the moment October hits.
Imagine sitting by an open window, sipping a cup of coffee while the autumn air flows in, and writing down your thoughts in a cozy journal.
Add some fall songs in the background, and you have the ultimate setup for an October therapy session.
Don’t let the month slip by without journaling to fall music at least once. It might turn out to be the best autumn activity you take away from this list.
8. Load Up On Natural Goodies From A Farmer’s Market
October is all about comfort food and baked treats. For a goodie baking experience, head out to a farmer’s market and load up on natural ingredients.
You can make it a solo date or go with a friend who appreciates naturally produced food.
Grab fresh apples, sweet honey, and spicy homemade sauces. Get some freshly baked bread, cookies, and green vegetables.
Pick things that you haven’t tried before and get your fill of the seasonal food. You’ll also be supporting the local businesses along the way.
Recommended post: 15 Things To Do On Your Day Off For A Meaningful Time
9. Try Forest Bathing
Okay, time for my favorite newest autumn activity for this year.
I first came across the term forest bathing on Pinterest and was immediately hooked. It sounded like the kind of that my nature-loving soul would thrive on.
Forest bathing, also known as “Shinrin-Yoku” in Japan, is a wellness practice that involves immersing oneself in a natural forest environment to enhance overall well-being.
Unlike traditional hiking or outdoor activities, forest bathing does not focus on physical exercise or reaching a destination.
Instead, it encourages individuals to slow down, engage their senses, and be fully present in the forest.
You can take leisurely walks through wooded areas while taking mindful observations of the sights, sounds, smells, and textures of the forest.
With its therapeutic and rejuvenating benefits, forest bath
Doesn’t it seem like a unique experience to add to your fall bucket list? Just the escape you need to escape your fast-paced lifestyle and connect with nature on a deeper level.
10. Have A Self-Care Day
Even though self-care should be an evergreen part of your routine, there is something about fall self-care that prompts even the busiest people to embrace this cozy practice.
Use a day off or a weekend in October to have a fulfilling self-care session.
Wake up early and savor a warm spiced latte or herbal tea. Then, immerse yourself in nature by taking a mindful morning walk among the falling leaves.
Wrap yourself in a soft blanket and indulge in a cozy reading session with a captivating book.
A soothing bath infused with pumpkin-scented bath salts would work wonders to unwind your senses.
Don’t forget to carve out time for mindfulness and meditation. Reflecting on your inner self to find peace is also a part of self-care.
Finally, pamper yourself with a homemade facial mask or a spa-like skincare routine.
By blending self-care practices with the magic of October, you can recharge, rejuvenate, and fully appreciate the beauty of the season while prioritizing your well-being.
Must read: How To Live A Quiet Life – 5 Simple Practices
11. Pumpkin Carving
Is any fall activity list ever going to be complete without mentioning pumpkins? I think not.
Whether you’re a master carver or a first-time enthusiast, pumpkin carving in October is a time-honored tradition that brings happiness, creativity, and a touch of magic.
Arm yourself with carving tools and gather around a table with your friends or family to carve healthy pumpkins.
Look up creative pumpkin carving ideas online and get creative with spooky and whimsical designs.
Your end result doesn’t have to be a masterpiece. It’s okay if you end up with a cartoonish-looking pumpkin. It’s the joy you’ll have along the way that counts.
Embrace Autumn Adventures This October
October invites you to slow down, savor the present moment, and immerse yourself in the beauty of the season.
From carving pumpkins and taking scenic bike rides to attending craft workshops and sipping warm beverages by the fireplace, there’s a lot you can do to embrace the coziness of fall.
As the days grow shorter and the air crisper, let these October activities be a reminder to cherish the simple joys of life and relish in the enchantment of this remarkable time of year.
An apple pie for you for making it this far – 🥧
Read next: 14 Best Fall Organizing Tips To Gear Up For The New Season
Leave a Reply