I was born and raised in a a city where there was basically just ONE season, maybe two. We had an average of 65-85 degrees Fahrenheit all year round – warmer in the summer, just so slightly cooler in the “winter”. Now that I live in a place with FOUR real seasons, I wanted to try to make an effort of seeing the good in every season. The change of seasons became a holiday for me, and was born a new celebratory tradition in our home. Starting with…the First Day of Fall!
How we celebrate the First Day of Fall
Every year I grow into this new tradition more and more, and I think this one will be my best one yet. The best thing about this holiday is that no one in the family has expectations, so you can go as big or small as you’d like. In a world where we tend to over consume, over plan, and over analyze – I always vote to keep it sweet and simple and make it work for YOU.
Go small and have a new book ready on that day, or just make a favorite fall treat, or try to do a small outing outside together as a family before the weather turns. If you’re feeling ambitious, do it all! But again, do what fits YOU and don’t let Pinterest or this post overwhelm you.
My plan this year…
- A new seasonal book (okay I chose a couple this year)
- A favorite fall baked good
- Put out a simple decoration or two
- Outside activity
(I’m thinking we may spread this out to a whole weekend, because why not be the “first WEEKEND of fall”?)
I’ll include a lot more ideas below of what you could do instead or addition to! (A new fuzzy blanket, new warmer pajamas, fall caroling (now that would be a funny neighbor surprise!), fall treats to the neighbors, pumpkin patch, etc.
Seasonal book ideas
I am a sucker for seasonal books, and the first day of fall is no exception. Here are a few of my favorites that are best sellers:
The Leaf Thief (my kids #1 favorite!!)
Leaves (another top favorite; the most gorgeous pop up book you will own! It’s a “read with an adult” book so it stays very special)
It’s Pumpkin Day, Mouse! (good for 1-3 years old)
Construction Site Gets a Fright (we basically own this whole series)
Little Blue Truck’s Halloween (ok this whole series too!)
How to Catch a Witch
Where Do Diggers Trick-or-Treat
Goodbye Summer, Hello Autumn
Because of an Acorn
The Very Last Leaf (great for nervous or anxious kids!)
first day of fall recipe ideas
I mean, is it even fall without a homemade baked good? I’m still trying to narrow down which one will make the cut this year. Here’s a few tried and true favorites…
Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Cookies
Pumpkin Streusel Bread with Maple Glaze
Sourdough Cinnamon Pull Apart Bread
Pumpkin Shaped Artisan Bread
Cinnamon Chip Rice Krispies (this recipe…just add 1 cup cinnamon chips to it!!)
Fun charcuterie board ideas
FOR EVEN MORE TREAT IDEAS…
Check out this whole post for a list of almost 20 recipe ideas!!
FALL ACTIVITIES
Some activity ideas of how to celebrate:
- Visit a pumpkin patch or fall farm (I love following local activity guides in the area on Instagram who always give me a ton of fun family ideas!)
- Go on a walk and collect leaves for a craft
- Enjoy a hike
- Deliver fall treats to the neighbors
- Set out (or go pick out!) a new fall decoration for your home
- Read a fall book together
- Share a fun surprise family gift (a new book, a cozy new blanket, etc.)
- Invite a family over for a fall dinner
What traditions do you have for opening up fall? I’d love to hear your ideas below on how you celebrate!
Turn on those ovens and get ready for the best season of the year!
Planning to have a first day of autumn meal and want to invite another family to join. I love your ideas and the booklist! Thanks, and Happy Fall!
Hope you had such a happy first day of fall! 🙂