2020 Fall Guide

Happy first day of Fall y’all! We’re finally into the season of colourful fall foliage, comfort food, cozy blankets and of course, Pumpkin Spice everything! Fall has always been my favourite season – the transitional weather from hot, humid days to cool days are actually so enjoyable. Today, I’m sharing my family friendly Fall Guide on activities (with Covid restrictions) to do within and around Toronto, which are sure to spice up your life this season!

1. See the Fall Foliage at the Forks of the Credit Provincial Park
   Take a drive through the park and embrace the beautiful landscape which transforms into shades of orange, yellow and red. Another option is to take a hike through the park’s several trails, including the Bruce trail, Dominion trail, Kettle trail, Meadow trail, Trans Canada trail. Regardless of whether you drive or walk through the park, this inexpensive activity is sure to get you into the Fall spirit!
   
2. Go Apple Picking
   The fall season isn’t complete without a fun, family trip to the fields for apple picking! Here are some of my favourite spots near the city. Most of the farms require reservations and have implemented Covid protocols to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors. Be sure to book your reservation in advance, as the farms are extremely popular over the harvest season (especially on the weekends!)

• Carl Laidlaw Orchards – Brampton, Ontario
• Big R’ Apple Farm – Brampton, Ontario
• Dixie Orchards – Caledon, Ontario
• Puddicombe Farms – Hamilton, Ontario
• Applewood Farm – Stouffville, Ontario

3. Wander through the Hanes Corn Maze
Get ready for some family fun with this human size puzzle in a 20 acre field of cornstalks! Book tickets in advance (click here) and please remember to adhere to social distancing rules.

4. PYOP – Pick Your Own Pumpkin
Hit the pumpkin patch and P.Y.O.P for an affordable price. Gather the kids and choose the perfect pumpkin for a carving contest! Here are some pumpkin patches to get the kids engaged in picking the perfect pumpkin (tip: host a family pumpkin carving contest and let your kids’ creativity shine with their take on the spookiest pumpkin!)

• Dixie Orchards – Caledon, Ontario
• Hanes Corn Maze – Dundas, Ontario
• Puddicombe Farms – Hamilton, Ontario
• Applewood Farm – Stouffville, Ontario
• Reesor’s Farm Market – Markham, Ontario

5. Visit a Farmers’ Market
This is the perfect time to support local and visit the farmers’ market for seasonal vegetables and fruits. Below are some of my picks in Toronto:

• Evergreen Brick Works – Toronto, Ontario
• St. Lawrence Market – Toronto, Ontario
• Withrow Park Farmers’ Market – Toronto, Ontario

6. Cozy up at the Drive-In cinema
Summer may have ended, but the drive in remains open for a night out with your loved ones. As the days get shorter, this activity is perfect for those unable to stay awake past the first movie showtime at 9:00pm during summer (like myself :p). The weather will be cooler, so I recommend to bring a blanket or two (or three!) to keep warm.

7. Take a hike along the Mast Trail
Enjoy the changing season with a walk, stroll or hike through the Mast Trail at Rouge National Urban Park. This trail is moderate or difficult, and is recommended for intermediate to advanced hikers. Click the link to read about the trail’s highlights and features. This activity is a definite must over the season!

8. Get creative with a Fall project
Whether you’re redecorating your home or hoping to learn a new skill, there’s never a better time to pick up a new hobby! Take a visit to your local arts & crafts store and let your creativity shine with projects such as a fall inspired DIY wreath, candle making activity or P.Y.O.P (Paint Your Own Pumpkin). Click here for more DIY ideas!

9. Indulge in Cozy Comfort Food
Let your home be filled with the warm scents of pumpkin spice, cinnamon, cardamom and nutmeg with a delicious Fall recipe. Here are some ideas to get you started (maybe you can perfect a Thanksgiving recipe!)

10. Fall in love with seasonal decor
Let the autumn colours inspire you to decorate your home or office for the season. There are some great deals and sale happening now at some of my fave stores, including:

• Michael’s – take advantage of this 50% sale happening now!
• Dollarama – plan your next party with Thanksgiving or Halloween decor with these affordable prices
• Party City – get your Thanksgiving tableware & decor at great prices
• Canadian Tire – celebrate the fall harvest with these beautiful wreaths, candles, pumpkins and more
• Bed, Bath & Beyond – get festive with classy and elegant autumn decor (bonus – if you sign up to their email list, you can get 20% off your purchase!)
• Amazon – if you want great bang for your buck, head on over to Amazon.ca (or Amazon.com) for the best prices on all Fall decor!

I hope you enjoyed this post and get inspired by the activities and decor ideas to capture and embrace all that is Fall season!
If you have any ideas on decor/travel/style inspo, feel free to share in the comments below 🙂

Until next time, take care my friend!

xx Lissy ~