How to Have a Blast this Fall - Uncover the Best-Kept Secrets! Fall Fun on a Budget

It's late August and summer is wrapping up. In the Northeast, nights are a bit cooler and there is hint of Fall in the air. If you are thinking about the changing of the season and are on a budget like me, here are some best-kept secrets for having a blast without breaking the bank. So, grab your Pumpkin Spice Latte, and get ready for adventures that won't drain your wallet! Let's have Fall fun on a budget.

1. Meet Ups with Friends and Family

Coffee with friends

Reconnect with Friends and family. Having coffee, lunch or dinner with a friend or family member is fun and depending on where you go can be inexpensive or even free. I have a weekly lunch date with a girlfriend at Panera’s. Every Monday we meet to chat about what’s happening in our lives, write (we are both writers), and have lunch. It strengthens the soul to get out of the house and enjoy life.

Libraries are also great places to meet up. If you have a passion like writing, knitting, crocheting, or reading, libraries have free classes on many subjects. You can find new friends with similar interests and the best part, it’s all free. Check your local libraries for events

2. Parks

Pack a basket with sandwiches, fruits, and refreshing drinks, and head to your local park for a budget-friendly picnic. Spread out a blanket, bask in the sunshine, and enjoy the simple pleasure of outdoor dining. There are many state parks around the country that offer picnic areas, some with even on a lake or by a pool.

Enjoying the sun.

I live in upstate New York, and I can count at least 4 state parks that are about 30 minutes from my house that charge a minimum entry fee. Some state parks will have free days during the week so find local & state parks by doing a simple google search.

Enjoy the last warm rays of sunshine.

4. An Evening Outdoors

Summer night by the fire.

There's nothing like sitting around the fire and enjoying music and conversation with friends and family. Throw in the makings for smores and you have the perfect evening. What's best, its practically free. Enjoying the night without leaving the comfort of your home.

5. Hiking and Nature Trails

Hiking the trails

Explore the great outdoors by going on a hike or nature trail near your area. Again, there are many local and state hiking trails in your area that are free to use. So, lace up your hiking boots, grab your hiking stick, pack some snacks and water, and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature. Whether you're chasing waterfalls, admiring scenic vistas, or discovering hidden gems, hiking is a fantastic way to stay active and enjoy the Fall foliage without spending a fortune.

6. Community Events and Festivals

Music in the Park

Check out local community events, festivals, and farmers' markets happening in your town. Many of these events are free or have minimal entry fees and offer a variety of entertainment, food, and activities. From live music performances to craft stalls, you'll find endless opportunities to have a blast while supporting your community.

7. Start a Blog - Gratitude Journal

Healthy Living on a Budget

Starting a blog can be intimidating. What do I write? Who would want to read it? Let me tell you, there are people out there that will. You may not capture a large audience, but who cares. Write what matters to you. Life, family, your mom's recipes, your dreams, what you are thankful for. The art of writing is enjoyable no matter the skill and it's a way to relieve life's stress.

There are many platforms that will host blogs for little to no cost. My blog is on Wix and they make it so easy. Of course, there is a learning curve, but each post gets better. So, just sit down with a cup of tea, either in front of the computer or phone in hand and write the words. Here is a link to 'start a blog on Wix '. Give it a try.

8. Get a Head Start on the Holidays

Crafting and Baking for the Holidays

As the days get shorter and nights get cooler, our thoughts drift to the holidays. Halloween, Thanksgiving, Chanukah, Christmas. This of course brings ideas of baking and crafting gifts. I enjoy knitting and crocheting, and making cookies, pies, and cakes for presents.

So, if you want to make homemade gifts for the holidays, it's good to start now. Knit or crochet a scarf. You'll be surprised it easier than you think. There are many easy 'how to' videos on YouTube. Also, get mom's/grandmom's recipes out and look for the cookies and cakes. Baking ahead and putting them in the freezer makes a less stressful and cost-effective way to enjoy the holidays.

9. Genealogy - Museum State & Federal Archives. Travel Your Family Trail

Finding and Adding Branches to Your Family Tree

At some point in your life, you will wonder, where did my family come from. My mom's family is from Ireland and immigrated to America in the mid 1870's. My father was sponsored after WWII and came come over from Germany. But other than that, I knew little beyond that.

Of course, when I decided to research my roots, the older generation that knew anything were gone, so I had to start from scratch.

The best place to start is with you. Write down you and your siblings' information such as date of birth & birthplace. Then do your parents. Go back as far as you can. There are a few family tree templates that are available for free.

There is also ancestory.com which is the world's largest genealogy site. But that cost money, but they have a free trial period. You can even try the DNA route too. I haven't tried the DNA. Maybe I'm afraid of being related to scallywags and cutthroats. Ha Ha Ha. But friends have done this and was able to connect to long lost/distant cousins and trace the family through the centuries.

Other sources that are available are state archives, usually housed at the museum in the state capital city. Also, the National archives and FamilySearch Library in Salt Lake City, Utah.

Fall Fun Awaits!

Let's Have Fun this Fall

With these budget-friendly Autumn activities up your sleeve, you're all set to make the most of the pumpkin season without emptying your wallet. So, get out there, embrace the falling leaf vibes, and let the good times roll!

Remember, to have Fall fun on a budget and is all about making the most of the moment, so savor every bit of sunshine and laughter that comes your way. Happy budget adventuring!

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