As we wind down our summer bucket list adventures, it's time to dive into all the wonderful fun things to do with friends that fall has to offer. Autumn ushers in a unique vibe and energy with vibrantly colored leaves, the sweet aroma of pumpkin spice, and crisp, cool air. It invites us to gather our people for exciting and memorable new adventures.
This list of 30 fall bucket list activities encourages us to fully enjoy this beautiful season with our friends. So, grab your favorite blanket, a warm drink, and your besties. Let’s soak in the cozy, festive spirit of autumn and create as many wonderful memories as we can before winter arrives.
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About the Author - Angela Caveney, Ph.D.
Who is Dr. Angela Caveney?
Unless you're one of this blog's subscribers, you are probably wondering who this Angela Caveney character is and why you should listen to anything she has to say.
Let's fix that...
I'm Dr. Angela Caveney. I'm a Clinical Psychologist, Neuropsychologist and the Founder of The Trybe Women's Social Club.
As a Psychologist, I teach people how to make friends and deepen their relationships. I often semi-seriously refer to myself as a professional friendship matchmaker and mentor.
As the leader of The Trybe, I've become an expert at planning activities and events that bring people together in community.
As the author of the Midlife Reimagined Blog, I also write about other popular midlife topics such as finding your personal core values, empty nesting, reinventing yourself and finding purpose.
As a goal-focused, slightly OCD human who LOVES a great checklist, I'm a raging bucket list enthusiast. I love bucket lists so much that I have bucket lists of my bucket lists.
Ok. With that taken care of... Shall we get down to it?
1st Step! Make Your Own Mini Bucket List For Fall
Donning my Clinical Psychologist hat for just a moment, I offer you some advice.
Reviewing this list of 30 fall bucket list ideas is the first step toward turning another ordinary fall season into memorable adventures with your friends, but I'm not suggesting you should try to do ALL of these things.
Trying to do them all (or even most) will likely lead to overwhelm, frustration and feelings of failure. (Obviously, this is not what we're going for...)
Instead, craft your own mini autumn bucket list of fun things to do with friends this fall by choosing just a few of the ideas below (and perhaps add in a few ideas of your own) to plan and enjoy this season.
This strategy will help you avoid overwhelm while still ensuring that you take action to create moments of connection, fun and laughter, rather than (what most people do) just getting lost in the busyness of day-to-day life.
Now - let's get on with my list of favorite adult fall activities...
5 Outdoor Autumn Activity Ideas
For reasons ranging from natural beauty to cooler temperatures, fall is the perfect time to enjoy the great outdoors.
Here are my five favorite outdoor autumn activities for you to consider adding to your own fall bucket list:
1. Apple Picking
Relish the joys of fall with a day of apple picking at a local orchard with your favorite people. Wander through rows of apple trees, surrounded by vibrant autumn colors, and pick fresh, crisp apples straight from the branches. This autumn activity not only lets you enjoy the outdoors, but also provides a wonderful opportunity to share stories and laughter with your friends.
2. Forest Bathing
I like to think of forest bathing as a peaceful escape into nature that refreshes both body and soul. As you and your friends move silently, taking in the sights and sounds of fall, you'll feel deep peace and connection. Fall's crisp air and bright colors make it the perfect time for forest bathing. This simple practice reduces stress, encourages self-reflection and strengthens bonds with those around you.
3. Hiking in a National Park
Likely because the scenery is at its most stunning, one of the most beloved adult fall activities to do with friends is to explore a national park. Hike through diverse terrains, from lush forests to sweeping vistas. Your journey will encourage both personal reflection and growth, while building unity and inspiration among you and your people.
4. Horseback Riding
As a horse lover, one of my favorite adult fall activities is to enjoy its beauty by going for a long, scenic trail ride with friends. (This is also one of my favorite ways to encourage friends to get out of their comfort zones a bit.)
In addition to the sheer beauty of nature this time of year, the cooler temperatures are appreciated by both the riders and their horses. As we ride, the bonds formed are not only human to human, but also human to horse.
5. Mandala Nature Walk
Gather your friends and family for a fall mandala nature walk, an autumn activity that both celebrates the season's beauty and deepens friendships. As you stroll through a forest adorned in autumn colors, you collect leaves, acorns, and other natural treasures to create a communal mandala at the end of the walk. This mindful and artful adult fall activity encourages everyone to slow down, reflect, and appreciate the intricate patterns of nature.
12 Autumn Party Ideas
Fall is a surprisingly great time to plan parties with friends, mostly thanks to the cooler weather and the festive, spooky spirit of Halloween.
Here are my favorite fall party ideas for you to consider for your own autumn bucket list:
1. Board Game Night
Host a cozy board game night with friends. As temps cool off, transform your space into a snug haven filled with laughter and camaraderie. Select a blend of strategic and light-hearted games to keep all players (ranging from competitive to shy) engaged and entertained. Cultivate teamwork and playful banter among your guests to create a sense of connection.
2. Bonfire
Who doesn't love a bonfire in the fall?
Gather your friends for a blazing bonfire that celebrates the joy of good company. As the sun sets, create an extra cozy atmosphere with blankets, lanterns, and perhaps even a few twinkling lights.
No autumn bonfire is complete without s'mores! Get creative with toppings like caramel, peanut butter cups, and a sprinkle of cinnamon. Enhance the fall feel of the experience with hot apple cider, pumpkin-spiced treats, and a playlist featuring autumnal anthems such as "Harvest Moon" by Neil Young, "Sweater Weather" by The Neighbourhood, and "Landslide" by Fleetwood Mac.
3. Fall Tea Party
A tea party is a less obvious autumnal activity, however, this is a perfect way to savor some of the rich, comforting flavors of fall. Set a beautiful table with an array of fall inspired teas like spiced chai, cinnamon apple blend, and soothing chamomile. Pair the teas with homemade pumpkin scones, cranberry muffins, and caramel-drizzled apple slices.
4. Friendsgiving Potluck
I can't think of an adult fall activity for friends that is more quintessential than a Friendsgiving party! Gather your favorite people for a potluck that celebrates connection and gratitude. Invite each of your guests to bring a dish that holds special meaning to them. Set the scene with autumnal decor like funky gourds, crackling wooden wick candles, and table settings featuring rich, earthy tones and leaf motifs that make everyone feel right at home.
As you share your Friendsgiving meal, encourage each of your friends to share a story or memory associated with the dish they chose to bring. Although we all tend to focus on the food quite a bit, Friendsgiving really isn't about a meal. It’s a time to reflect on the bonds you’ve built, support each other, and create new memories together.
5. Game Day Gathering
Autumn is pretty much the only option for hosting an (American) football game day gathering for your friends. For many of us, the start of football signals the true beginning of fall and always brings a sense of excitement (this is our year!) and anticipation.
Watching the game together becomes a memorable event filled with cheers, friendly competition, and high-fives. The crisp weather makes this fall activity perfect for enjoying classic game day snacks like chili and hot (or hard) cider.
6. Halloween Party
Who says Halloween parties are just for kids? Adults love dressing up too! One of the most fun to do with friends in the autumn is, of course, a Halloween party! Encourage your guests to don their spookiest or most outrageous outfits. Create a thrilling and slightly eerie scene by decking out your party space with carved, glowing pumpkins, flickering candles, and vibrant fall leaves.
Crank up the energy with upbeat music and a dance floor where everyone can let loose. Offer an array of seasonal treats and drinks like candy corn, pumpkin pie, mulled cider and caramel apple shots to keep the party vibes high.
7. Masquerade Ball
Autumn's air of mystery makes it the perfect time to host a masquerade ball. The cooler evenings are ideal for dressing up in elaborate masks and cloaks, creating an atmosphere of intrigue and excitement. You can create a more spooky and suspenseful vibe with dim lighting, flickering candles and shadowy corners.
Don't underestimate the importance of a haunting music playlist with songs such as Toccata and Fugue in D Minor by Johann Sebastian Bach and Lux Aeterna by Clint Mansell.
8. Murder Mystery Party
With their captivating blend of mystery, intrigue, and a touch of danger, murder mystery parties are another ideal adult fall activity. If you’ve never experienced one, a murder mystery party is an interactive, role-playing game where everyone plays a character, and someone, secretly portraying the villain, has committed a "murder."
As the game unfolds, players gather clues and work together to solve the mystery. This type of adult fall activity is perfect for encouraging quick interactions among strangers and is a "killer" (get it?) way to spice up a night with friends.
9. Group Mystic Readings
Fall's macabre holidays make it the most natural time of year to invite a mystic to do group readings for you and your friends. Imagine an intimate setting with soft lighting and the aroma of incense wafting through the air. As everyone gathers, a hint of nervous excitement fills the atmosphere, setting the stage for some thrilling and spooky fun.
Believe me, the mystic's tales and insights will result in some very interesting conversations and perhaps even lead to some personal revelations.
10. Recipe Tasting and Swap
Celebrate fall and togetherness by sharing your favorite autumn dishes as part of a recipe tasting and swap. Enjoy hearty fall favorite soups like butternut squash or creamy pumpkin, stews filled with root vegetables, and classic pies like pecan and apple pie. Add to this, pumpkin bread, spiced cider, and roasted Brussels sprouts.
As you gather, share not only the cherished recipes, but also the stories behind these family staples that have been passed down through generations - each bite infused with memories and traditions.
11. Scary Movie Night
A very easy activity to add to your friendship autumn bucket list is a scary movie night. Transform your living room into a comfy, but spooky haven with dim lighting, soft throws and plenty of popcorn.
Choose a lineup of classic horror films or suspenseful thrillers to keep everyone on the edge of their seats. To make this a more active, friendship building activity, encourage everyone to share their favorite scary movie moments from the past.
12. Shamanic Full Moon Drumming Ceremony
Gather your circle of friends for an enchanting evening under a fall full moon with a shamanic drumming ceremony. Picture a serene outdoor space, where you are all bathed in moonlight and enjoying the warmth of the crackling fire. The rhythmic beat of the drums begins, creating a powerful connection to the earth and each other.
Fall's mystical vibes make it the perfect season for this sort of ceremony, as the energy of transformation and renewal is in the air. As the shaman guides you all through the experience, you'll find yourself immersed in a shared journey of self-discovery and growth.
6 Fall Activities -Places and Events
No autumn bucket list is complete without including at least one of the classic ideas below.
Here are my top six recommendations for places and events to explore with your friends this fall:
1. Apple Cider Mill
One of the most timeless things you can do with friends in the fall is to spend a day at an apple cider mill. Savor fresh (straight from the barrel!) cider and warm donuts while the aroma of apples from nearby trees fills the air. Wander through the orchards, pick your own apples, and enjoy the vibrant autumn scenery together.
2. Visiting a Farmers' Market
One of my favorite autumn activities is spending a Saturday morning at a farmers' market with friends, checking out (and taking advantage of) the fall harvest. I love wandering through the colorful stalls packed with fresh produce, artisanal breads, and homemade jams. We love chatting with local farmers, sampling goodies, and picking up all the ingredients for special autumn-inspired meals.
3. Oktoberfest
An activity that is on my own autumn bucket list this year (as it has been decades since I last experienced it) is to celebrate Oktoberfest with friends. By visiting local Oktoberfest festivals you can enjoy hearty German dishes like bratwurst and sauerkraut, sample craft beers, and join in on the lively music and polka dancing. Oktoberfest truly is a unique and festive way to embrace the spirit of the fall season.
4. Road Trip Through Fall Foliage
Invite your friends and grab your cameras (let's face it, your phones will work perfectly) for a fall road trip to enjoy the magnificent autumn foliage. While it may be harder in some places than others to discover awe-inspiring, picturesque fall color routes, each place has its own appeal. Regardless of your location, make sure to pause for hikes or bike rides in the woods to completely immerse yourself in and admire the seasonal beauty.
5. Tailgate at a Football Game
How long has it been since you relived your college days by organizing a football game and tailgate party with friends? It might take some effort and travel, but please do consider adding this to this year's autumn bucket list of things to do with friends!
Fire up the grill, share your favorite snacks, and celebrate team spirit together. The fresh autumn air combined with the thrill of the game sets the stage for an unforgettable day of fun and shenanigans.
6. Vineyard and Winery
Of course, for those of us over the age of 35, one of the most popular things to do with friends in the fall is to head to a local vineyard or winery to enjoy the fruits of the harvest season. Taste seasonal wines, stroll through the colorful vineyards, and relax with friends in the cool autumn air. The ambiance of a vineyard in fall is both serene and invigorating, perfect for unwinding and connecting.
4 Crafty Autumn Activities
A quick search on Google, Etsy, or Pinterest for "adult fall activities to do with friends" will certainly yield a LOT of very creative craft ideas. Here, I've highlighted my four favorite options for you to consider for your own fall bucket list.
Regardless of which you choose, I encourage you to invite local artisans to guide you and your friends in these activities. This not only will dramatically enrich your experience, but also support small local businesses.
1. Gourmet Caramel apples
Fall is the perfect time for crafting gourmet caramel apples since they are at their seasonal peak. But hear me when I say that these are not the caramel apples from your childhood! We're talking crazy, unique variations to elevate this classic treat.
For example, you can roll your caramel apples in crushed pretzels and drizzle with dark chocolate for a sweet-salty delight. Or try sprinkling on sea salt and cinnamon for a more sophisticated twist. One of my favorites is to coat caramel apples with chopped pecans and a hint of maple syrup for a true taste of fall.
2. Late Art
Unleash your inner barista and add some autumnal magic to your mornings by organizing a fall-themed latte art class. Side by side with your compadres, learn to create beautiful designs like hearts, rosettas, and even pumpkin shapes, all while infusing your lattes with fall spices like cinnamon and nutmeg.
This engaging class isn’t just about mastering a skill - it’s about connecting with fellow coffee lovers, sharing tips, and celebrating tiny victories (of course that blob totally looks like a heart)!
3. Pumpkin Carving
We’ve all carved pumpkins before, but why not enhance the experience by inviting friends and a local artist to lead an advanced pumpkin carving class? After mastering a few new techniques, you can elevate the fun with a friendly competition! Once the carvings are complete, take the time to admire each other’s creations and vote for categories such as “Most Creative," “Scariest" and "Keep Practicing."
4. Wreath Making
Wreath making is a creative way to embrace the fall season. This time of year is perfect for crafting beautiful autumn wreaths using materials like vibrant, dried leaves, acorns, pinecones, and berries. Popular designs range from rustic twig wreaths adorned with mini pumpkins and gourds to extremely elegant arrangements featuring deep red and orange foliage.
But it's not just about fall - nwhy not make your own holiday wreaths too? Use evergreen branches, holly, and festive ribbons to create something truly special. As you gather around the table, chatting and sharing tips, you'll craft beautiful natural decorations while enjoying each other's company.
3 Cozy Fall Activities
There's something about fall that makes us all want to dig out our fuzzy blankets, order some new comfy socks (that's not just me, is it?) and spend time with good friends.
Here are a few of my favorite cozy fall activities for you to consider for your autumnal bucket list:
1. Author Led Book Club
An author-led book club is such a fun autumn activity! The weather is just right for sitting outside with cozy blankets while enjoying the beautiful backdrop of colorful leaves. Having the author present to lead the book discussion really spices things up as they share their unique insights into the story and characters.
No book club meet-up is complete without treats, so be sure to include tasty fall favorites like pumpkin pie and apple crisps, perhaps paired with hot, mulled cider.
2. Binge A Favorite Show (with soft blankets and fuzzy socks)
On a cool fall evening, there's nothing better than casually hanging out with friends binge-watching shows. Beyond your current favorites, I recommend revisiting some of the friendship "classics" (I guess we are all "classics" now, eh?) such as "90210," "Friends," "Seinfeld," and "Sex and the City." Don't forget the fuzzy socks and soft blankets to make everyone feel right at home.
3. Thrift A Cozy Sweater
Thrifting is a fantastic way to bond with friends, have fun, and refresh your closet while being eco-friendly and budget-conscious.
Perhaps due to my Michigan roots, I absolutely love shopping for sweaters at thrift stores. I could do this even when it's 100 degrees outside, but it's on those cooler fall days that you'll have a lot better chance at getting a friend to join you.
I enjoy looking for warm, chunky knits, soft cashmeres, and even quirky patterns that add character to my wardrobe. As you and your friend sift through the racks together, you'll undoubtedly find a few "treasures", share more than a few ("someone actually bought this at some point???") laughs and perhaps even find some items that spark stories from your past.
Final Thoughts
I hope this list of 30 fall bucket list ideas has inspired you to create your own autumnal bucket list of fun things to do with your friends this fall season. Remember, it's not about doing all the things with all the people. Just choose a few activities - and your favorite people - and get out there and make this season a memorable one.
About the Author
Angela Caveney, Ph.D. is a Clinical Psychologist, Neuropsychologist and Founder of The Trybe Women's Social Club. Her absolute favorite things to do are to help women find their people, rediscover themselves by stepping out of their comfort zones and thrive throughout midlife. She can be reached directly at angela@the-trybe.com
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