Fall activities to inspire creativity and fun

Fall is a season of change, bringing with it vibrant colors, cooler temperatures, and new opportunities to reset our routines. Whether you're seeking to spark creativity, reduce stress, or simply have fun, there are plenty of ways to enjoy this time of year.

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We asked our Forte HQ team to share some of their favorite Fall activities that inspire creativity and fun.

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1. Go on a walk to see fall colors

"As the leaves start changing, I love as much time as possible outside. My favorite thing is to go on long walks or find new hiking trails - being surrounded by the foliage is exhilarating. I've found that being outside in that environment allows me to see and appreciate the beauty around me that I can so easily overlook." - Vineet Rajan, Co-Founder and CEO

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Taking a walk outdoors, especially surrounded by nature’s beauty, has been proven to do more than just relax you. Studies show that spending time in nature significantly improves mood and reduces anxiety. According to research published in Frontiers in Psychology, even brief exposure to natural environments can enhance cognitive function, particularly creativity and problem-solving skills . So, if you’re feeling stuck or overwhelmed, a stroll among the fall foliage may be just what you need to boost your creativity and clarity.

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2. Visit a pumpkin patch

"A trip to the pumpkin patch is the perfect way to experience all of my favorite things: being outside, being with my family, and having fun. I enjoy connecting with others in our community and having intentional time to play with my grandson. We usually to walk away with some pretty cute pictures, too." - Kim Saquing, Head of Platform

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Visiting a pumpkin patch isn’t just a festive outing—it’s a great way to lower stress and experience joy. Research shows that spending time in natural, outdoor environments, especially those with elements of play, like a pumpkin patch, helps reduce levels of cortisol, the body’s stress hormone . Engaging in seasonal activities that connect us to nature can also improve mood and increase feelings of vitality. A study published in Environmental Health Perspectives reveals that outdoor environments like parks and farms enhance overall wellbeing and can even lower the risk of mental health issues. So, whether you're picking the perfect pumpkin or enjoying the fresh air, a trip to the pumpkin patch is a simple way to boost your mental health while having fun!

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3. Enjoy a slow morning outside with coffee

"There’s something so peaceful about enjoying my morning coffee outside in the crisp fall air—it helps me start my day with a clear mind." - Kaylee Pinkerton, Communications Manager

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Taking time to enjoy a slow morning outdoors with a cup of coffee is a simple yet powerful way to practice mindfulness and enhance mental clarity. Research published in Psychological Science shows that spending just a few moments outside in natural environments can improve attention span, reduce mental fatigue, and enhance cognitive function . The act of slowing down and savoring your morning drink can also boost mindfulness, a practice proven to reduce stress and anxiety by grounding you in the present moment. Starting your day with this calm, intentional routine allows you to set a positive tone for the rest of your day.

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4. Quality time around a fire

"As the weather cools off, my wife and I love spending time outside with our family. We built a fire pit on our property so we have plenty of space for our kids and grandkids to be together. It's a great way to slow down and enjoy good company." - Jon Talbert, Chief Guide

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Gathering around a fire pit is more than just a cozy way to spend a fall evening—it’s a powerful tool for reducing anxiety and strengthening social connections. Research from the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences suggests that firelight naturally promotes relaxation and bonding, likely rooted in our evolutionary past. The rhythmic, calming effect of watching a fire has been shown to lower blood pressure and promote a sense of wellbeing. Additionally, socializing around a fire pit enhances feelings of belonging and strengthens relationships, which are key components of mental health. So, the next time you gather around the flames, you’re not just enjoying the warmth—you’re also nurturing your mental and emotional health.

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5. Cozy up with a good book

"On days when it's too cold to go outside, I love to spend the day inside working on a puzzle or starting a new book. I've found that puzzles are a great way to bring the entire family together to work on a common goal, while also creating space for us to laugh and have good conversation." - Sandhia Rajan, Head of Wellbeing

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Reading, especially fiction, has been shown to reduce stress, improve empathy, and even lengthen your lifespan. According to a study by Yale University, people who read for at least 30 minutes a day lived, on average, two years longer than non-readers . Moreover, research from Emory University shows that reading fiction enhances brain connectivity, particularly in areas related to language comprehension and emotional intelligence . Whether you’re losing yourself in a novel or indulging in your favorite non-fiction, fall is the perfect time to recharge with a good book.

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6. Try some family-friendly fall crafts

"As parents, we try to be intentional in creating unique memories with our kids. One of our favorite things to do as the seasons change is think through different seasonal crafts or projects we can do with our children. Recently, my son and I made a cookie haunted house - yes, it turned out exactly like the example on the box." - William Norvell, Co-Founder

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Engaging in crafting and DIY projects is not only a fun way to celebrate the season but also a scientifically supported method of enhancing emotional wellbeing. Crafting encourages a sense of achievement and boosts self-esteem. A study published in the American Journal of Public Health highlights that creative engagement is linked to improved emotional regulation and lower rates of anxiety and depression . Plus, the repetitive, mindful nature of crafting can be meditative, similar to the effects of mindfulness exercises.

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7. Experiment with a new recipe

"I’ve been working on perfecting my homemade pizza recipe, and I’m loving the cooler weather so we can host friends and family to enjoy my latest creations." — Jon Melo

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Getting creative in the kitchen, whether perfecting a recipe or trying something new, is a fantastic way to boost your mood and connect with others. Cooking, especially when shared with loved ones, has been shown to improve emotional wellbeing. According to a study from Harvard Health, the process of preparing meals can have a meditative effect, reducing stress and enhancing mindfulness. Additionally, the act of cooking for others fosters social connection, which has been linked to lower rates of depression and improved overall mental health . Sharing homemade creations like Jon’s pizza not only satisfies your culinary creativity but also strengthens your bonds with friends and family, which is essential for long-term wellbeing.

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Fall presents the perfect opportunity to slow down and enjoy activities that spark creativity, boost wellbeing, and bring joy. Whether you're taking a nature walk, carving pumpkins, or cozying up with a book, each of these activities has a positive impact on your mental, emotional, and even physical health. Science shows that by being intentional about how we spend our time, we can reap the full benefits of the season and feel more grounded, inspired, and present.

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Which of these fall activities will you try first? Embrace the season and enjoy every colorful, cozy moment!

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