Fall festivities can be safe and fun!

by Madhav Raj

It has been a strenuous quarantine and everyone wants to get outside. But, the last thing we want is another peak in infections forcing us to quarantine again. So I’ve compiled a list of five safe activities that you can do. Most of them include your family as well! Give these a try this fall!

Scavenger Hunts! One fun activity that you can do with your family at home is a scavenger hunt. Pick several items that reflect the season of Fall. Make a list of the items for everyone else. Go hide the items inside or outside your home. Let’s see how many items they can find!

Hikes in the Woods! Another family activity to do during this time is hiking. You can search for trails near you online. There are a plethora of trails and preserves near Niskayuna, Exploring the wilderness is a great family-bonding exercise. Also, breathing the fresh air from the woods has been shown to boost your immune system.

Help Your Community! There is always help needed in our community, especially during this pandemic. You can help people in need of essential goods. Donating canned food to local food pantries, or rolls of toilet paper, etc. can help significantly. You could also write cards to seniors and residents at local nursing homes/hospitals like Sunnyview Rehabilitation Hospital. The point is, there are many ways to help!

Choose Pumpkins and Create Jack-O’-Lanterns! One traditional Fall activity that you can still do with your family is carving jack-o’-lanterns. Contact your local pumpkin patch to see what COVID-19 protocols are in place. Then, you can travel there with your family and pick up the pumpkin you like best. After you’re done picking, take your pumpkin(s) back home for carving!

Drive-In Movies! Drive-in movies are a safe way of seeing a movie in your car. Other cars will be near but not too close so that you can socially distance yourself. You can get out to sit on your car if you want a better view. If you choose to exit your car, you should wear a mask to be safe. Don’t forget to bring snacks and drinks!

There are many more safe activities that you can do during this pandemic. If you are planning to go anywhere that’s not already listed here, you should ask yourself three questions: Do they require people to wear masks? Do they have methods to encourage social distancing? And finally, are there going to be restrictions on the number of people attending? These questions will help you know how safe the activity will be. Stay safe and enjoy the fall season!