LM Montgomery wrote in Anne of Green Gables, “I am so glad I live in a world where there are Octobers,” and we agree—there is a lot to love about October and the rest of fall, whether it is bright leaves, sweater weather, spooky costumes or warm drinks.
But what about those of us who live in places where there are no discernible seasons—no changing colors, no chill in the air? We don’t think you should have to miss out. We have compiled a list of fun fall activities you can do anywhere—even if it is 80 degrees.
Autumn Movie Night
The best way to get into the spirit of fall is with some popcorn and some cinematic magic. So snuggle up and watch a favorite, whether it is Nightmare Before Christmas, Hocus Pocus, or a thanksgiving favorite like The Family Stone. The trees might not be changing colors outside your window, but they are on your screen! (Related: Fall is the Perfect Time for Home Repairs and Maintenance)
California twists on favorite fall recipes
One of the best parts of fall is the food: pies, squash and more. Make one of your favorites fresh and bright—California style—by changing up a recipe. Rather than having butternut squash hot, why not try it is a salad? Or make it into tamales—because, as everyone knows, the West Coast has the best Mexican food, and I am happy to trade jumping into a pile of leaves to diving into a pile of culinary treats.
Check out a local harvest festival
There are lots of wonderful autumn festivals throughout the US, not just on the East Coast. If you’re in LA, check out this list to get some ideas. Harvest festivals are fun for everyone—kids like the games, the corn mazes, and the other classic entertainment—Mom and Dad like the beer. It’s a win win!
Make your way to the California wine country
While fall may not be the same in California as it is in other places, we do have a distinct advantage—the beautiful CA wine country. A weekend tasting in Napa or Sonoma in October or November is an absolutely perfect fall nostalgia cure: you’ll get great food and great wine, and the fall is when the grapes are harvested and crushed, so there are tons of events at the wineries. If you want to stick closer to LA, the Santa Barbara wine country or the central coast are also great options—there are great wineries throughout the state.
Fall Fashion—California style
We might not be able to wear chunky sweaters here (if we don’t want to sweat all day) but that doesn’t mean we can’t enjoy all the fun styles that people love about fall and make them our own. Just keep the sweaters light weight and make sure you have layers you can take off! And maybe add a California designer here or there. Here’s a great blog post on fun California fall fashion ideas.
Get outside
California has some of the best nature the US has to offer, and the great thing about our fall is that it is still warm enough to enjoy it easily. Go for a hike or take a picnic to the beach. Go surfing, go kayaking, go SUPing. Try all of it, because you can!
Add some pops of fall décor to your home
Bringing your home into each new season can be a great way to enjoy them, even if the world outside looks about the same day to day. Make a wreath to add to the front door, put out fall scented candles, or place some small pumpkins out as center pieces on tables. You could change out a throw pillow or two if you want an easy way to change up a room. It doesn’t take much to transform your home or apartment into fall mode. (Related: 5 Clever Ways to Help Your Home Sell Fast This Fall)
Remember you live in paradise
There may not be much in the way of seasons here in Southern California, but we have so much to enjoy. This truly is a special part of the country, and enjoying everything it has to offer will remind you of that. Watching the sunset on a beautiful beach might make you a little less bitter you can’t wear a thick scarf and crunch leaves under your feet.
