A Big Fall Bucket List

There’s something about fall that feels like a deep exhale. The kids are back in school, the air smells like woodsmoke, and suddenly we’re pulling sweaters from the closet with a kind of reverence usually reserved for old friends. This season always reminds us that joy doesn’t have to be grand — sometimes it’s just a stack of pancakes for dinner or the glow of a candle on the counter.

So this year, we’re keeping it simple. Here’s our fall bucket list, written in pen and taped to the fridge, because we plan on crossing off every last one (and have already started doing so!)

1. Bake a show-stopping cake
We’re talking unapologetically autumnal: apple spice layered with cream cheese frosting, pumpkin olive oil cake, or even a Bundt cake dusted with cinnamon sugar. Half the fun is the mess in the kitchen, the kids sneaking spoonfuls of batter, and the smell that lingers long after the oven cools.

2. Breakfast for dinner
It feels like a small rebellion — flipping pancakes when it’s dark outside, pouring syrup by the candlelight, calling it a feast. Add eggs, bacon, waffles, or whatever you fancy, but don’t skip the cozy pajamas and early bedtime vibes. We actually did this a few weeks back!

3. Watch our favorite fall movies
Fall is basically Hollywood’s unofficial season. We’ll rewatch You’ve Got Mail (obviously), When Harry Met Sally, and Practical Magic on repeat, then throw in Hocus Pocus for good measure. Popcorn required, cider optional, blanket pile non-negotiable. Here’s our list of favorites.

4. Visit an apple orchard
There’s nothing like wandering through rows of heavy branches with a basket in hand. We’ll pick too many, snack as we go, and inevitably end up with cider donuts in the car. The best part? Coming home and pretending we’re going to bake with them instead of just eating them all week.

5. Drive to a mountain town for the day
We love the idea of a spontaneous road trip: winding roads, crisp air, stumbling into a mom-and-pop café. A day of exploring shops and side streets feels like a reset button we didn’t know we needed.

6. Take a quick weekend trip to pamper ourselves
It doesn’t need to be a big trip — just one night at a bed-and-breakfast or a cozy Airbnb. Sleep in, sip coffee in a new mug, maybe read a book under someone else’s quilt. Sometimes a little change of scenery is all it takes to feel like you’ve had a vacation. We just did this last week when we visited Highlands, NC!

7. Watch the new fall TV shows
There’s something ceremonial about the fall TV lineup. This year we’re making a list of premieres we don’t want to miss, then declaring a few nights “TV dinner nights.” Pajamas, plates balanced on knees, maybe even ice cream straight from the carton — the good stuff.

8. Find fall foliage
We’ll chase the color like kids chase fireflies. Maybe it’s a drive through the mountains, maybe just a walk through the neighborhood, coffee in hand. Either way, those fiery reds and golden yellows are worth slowing down for.

9. Buy a new sweater
Our official permission slip to treat ourselves. Something soft, classic, maybe in a shade that whispers “October.” I got this oversized v-neck sweater from Abercrombie last month and I love the collegiate vibe of it. It’s also 15% off right now!

10. Burn a delicious fall candle
Sometimes the whole season can fit in a wick: apple cider, pumpkin chai, or smoky sandalwood. Light it in the kitchen while dinner simmers, or in the living room on a Sunday afternoon. It’s the simplest kind of magic. Here’s a roundup of our favorite fall candles to burn this time of year.

11. Make a big pot of chili (or soup) from scratch
Nothing feels more like fall than a bubbling pot on the stove, filling the house with warmth. Invite friends over, pile bowls high, and serve with cornbread or crackers. How good does this chili look?

12. Go to a fall festival or farmers’ market
Check out local pumpkin patches, craft fairs, or Saturday markets. Stock up on gourds, mums, and maybe a pie someone else baked. We had a blast when we went to our local fall festival two years ago.

13. Take family photos in the leaves
Even if it’s just with your phone, head outside during golden hour. Crunchy leaves, cozy outfits, and everyone piled together make for the sweetest fall memories.

14. Try a new fall cocktail (or mocktail)
Think spiced apple cider margaritas, pumpkin white Russians, or a simple hot toddy. Mix up something seasonal, light a candle, and toast the season.

15. Write letters or postcards to friends
Snail mail feels especially sweet in autumn. Brew tea, sit down with stationery, and send a little fall love to someone far away.

The truth is, fall doesn’t need to be complicated. It’s the season of small pleasures — of leaning into comfort, slowing down, and letting the little rituals feel like big events. And if all else fails, light a candle and call it a night.