Fall Gathering Ideas for the Gracious Host
Fall is my all-time favorite season, and I can’t help but add a little pumpkin spice to my life. Even though the weather doesn’t cooperate here in Texas, I still make every effort to decorate my home for the season, emphasizing the need to feel cozy. I enjoy the pleasures of autumn by taking road trips, visiting local pumpkin patches and nurseries, dining on autumnal fare, and celebrating traditions with family and friends. If you’re as excited as I am to play host this fall, your search is over. Today’s blog is yours! Keep reading for fall gathering ideas and tips on how to be a gracious host.
Host a Pumpkin Carving Party
The timing of this blog is just about right to invite your guests, young and not so young, to a pumpkin party. Depending on how many people you invite and how your calendars line up, you may want to start your adventure at a local church selling pumpkins, a nursery, or a real pumpkin patch. Select a pumpkin (or two) before heading to the pumpkin carving (or pumpkin painting) stations set up and ready for the fun to begin. Stock up on carving tools and paint brushes, while offering easy and fun bites and sips. Don’t forget to take a picture at the pumpkin patch.
Throw a Fall Wreath or Garland Making Workshop
Invite friends over to decorate a wreath or garland with beautiful fall leaves, flowers, and dried spices or fruits. Every person’s creation will be unique and equally beautiful. Buy the supplies in bulk and lay them out neatly on the table, with the necessary tools for cutting and gluing. Don’t forget gorgeous satin ribbon for the perfect fall finish. Most of us love a good party favor, and taking home a beautiful, handmade wreath is such a treat.
Meet for a Fall Walk (or Drive)
If you live in a region with an abundance of changing leaves and winding roads, coordinate a fall color hike or drive. It’s a seasonal reset that will leave you feeling joyful and at peace. Instead of staying in the house, with battery-operated twinkling lights (which I also happen to adore), get out into nature and enjoy the real thing when the opportunity allows. You will be doing something good for your body and heart.
Coordinate a Fall Painting Party
While you may not consider yourself artistically inclined, seek out a local artist who regularly hosts painting parties and see if they have some availability in the fall. Each guest will go home with an autumnal painting of their creation.
Go Classic with a Costume Party
October means Halloween for many families, and the fun isn’t limited to little ones. Consider hosting a fall costume party, complete with games and prizes for the best-dressed. A s’mores station and apple cider bar add to the fall feels.
Host a Fall Bake-Off
From a family chili recipe to your grandma’s pumpkin pecan pie, fall is the season for baking. Host a fall bake-off of your choice, and cross parts of the menu off your list. Ask guests to bring copies of their recipe to share for a thoughtful finish.
You may also like How to Have a Fall “Glow Up”.
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