The Complete Autumn Hype-Up

Welcome to the Complete Autumn Hype-Up! Now, you may be wondering what in the world a hype-up is. Basically, it’s a way to get you excited about fall—whether you're already vibing with the autumn spirit or still missing the summer. Though the early months of fall have already passed, there is still over a month left to celebrate this colorful season! Get ready for random ideas of what to do in the fall, from calming activities to fun places to visit!

One thing that’s really cool about people is how different we are. We all have this infinitely random and special group of preferences and interests that make up a splendiferous unique personality! Hence, this important concept has been worked into the Autumn Hype-Up to include suggestions for all types of fall-goers. The first group of autumn activities is called “Laying On Top of the Heating Vent”. Its name alone sums up a heavily underrated fall activity that does not disappoint! This section is aimed toward those who like to stay cozy and warm during fall; it pertains to all the things you can do indoors or at home. On the other hand, the second section, titled “I Have Leaves in My Pants”, seeks to please those who hunger for adventure. It suggests places you can visit and things you can do outdoors. Together, they make the Complete Autumn Hype up, so onward!

Section 1: Laying On Top of the Heating Vent

1.) Autumn-ize the kitchen

If you haven’t already, autumn-izing your kitchen is one of the best ways to bring fall into your home! It welcomes good feelings by creating an inviting atmosphere; this has been shown to sharpen your senses as well as increase security and comfort. There are lots of possible ways to autumn-ize the kitchen:

• Accessorize: Put a soft and dreamy-scented hand soap by the sink or break out the fall decorations! If you like DIYs, you could make fall potholders or napkin rings to prepare for Thanksgiving. You can go all out with the “fall stuff” or simply set up a nice-smelling candle!

• Try seasonal fruits and vegetables: Enjoy the seasonal veggies and fruits that fall has to offer! Snack on kiwi, pears, apples, and carrots or cook and bake with squash, cranberries, broccoli, and sweet potatoes, to list a few.

• Learn autumn recipes: Whip out the cloves, ginger, and cinnamon! You know, pumpkin spice is well on its way to taking over the world, so why don’t we just embrace it? ALL HAIL THE PUMPKIN SPICE!!! There are tons of fall recipes for meals, snacks, simmer pots, and drinks. However, proceed with caution–you may find yourself up to your shoulders in baked goods!

2.) Have a fall movie night

A movie night is a great way to get cozy and enjoy the season! Movie nights are low-effort, relaxing, and fun! Stock up on blankets and pillows and pick a movie. Choosing the movie can be difficult; fortunately, the movie picker engine PickAMovieForMe.com proves to be extremely helpful for this! Enhance the mood by building a blanket fort, setting up string lights and lava lamps, or serving popcorn, caramel corn, candy, and other snacks!

3.) Become a blanket burrito

Sometimes this season can get to be a lot, especially with school, sports, and activities. It’s always important to take some solo time to unwind. That’s where the blanket burrito comes in. Rolling yourself up in blankets provides an immense sense of security and warmth, so it’s the perfect way to let your brain relax. To become a blanket burrito:

1. Lay out one (or even better, multiple) blanket(s)

2. Lay down on one side of the blanket

3. Grab the side you are laying on, hold it to your body, then roll until you reach the other side

There are multiple variations of the burrito; for one, you can leave your arms free so you can read or draw, or you could fully surround yourself with the blanket and nap. Maybe get some hot cocoa and turn on your favorite music. Truly, anything is better when you’re a blanket burrito! 

4.) Camp indoors

Camping is an exciting and enjoyable fall activity, but sometimes undesirable weather or time prevent an outdoor camping trip. Luckily, you can get the same amazing camping experience indoors! First, set up a tent inside or build a blanket fort, then add fun lighting, pillows, and sleeping bags. The classic camping activities aren’t left out with indoor camping, either! Some ideas are to make oven baked s’mores, eat trail mix, play games, and tell spooky stories with a flashlight.

5.) Some other ways to make the most of fall indoors:

• Roast pumpkin seeds- Try adding seasonings!

• Create a “cozy corner” in your room- With pillows and blankets!

• Have a book club with your friends- Look up some popular fall books!

• Make autumn and Thanksgiving decorations for your house- Try utilizing items from nature like acorns and sticks to make turkeys!

• Make fall-themed pet treats- Nothing like the joy of giving your furry, scaled, feathered, etc. friend a treat!

• Organize something- Putting your clothing, books, and even homework into patterns is helpful when you need a brain break!

Section 2: I Have Leaves in my Pants

1.) Build a tree branch fort

Building a tree branch fort is a great way to exercise your brain, connect with nature, and be creative. It makes for lots of fun as you solve problems and explore a natural area. It can really be done anywhere with strong sticks and branches available; there are many techniques online to help you arrange them into a fort. These forts provide a quiet area to read as well as an effective hideout in hide-and-seek! However, it’s extremely important to keep safety as the top priority when building branch forts. Be sure the structure is stable before entering and be aware of your surroundings when working in the woods.

2.) Go on an adventure

Going on an adventure helps you connect with nature during autumn! It’s also a powerful coping strategy as a relief from stress or anxiety. To go on an adventure, bundle up in warm clothing, step out the door, and see where nature takes you, whether it’s down a sidewalk or up a tree. This could mean hopping on a bike and riding around, taking a casual walk, or even going on a hike! You could have a goal, like collecting leaves or taking photos, or you might just do it to get outside. To sum it up, the purpose of going on an adventure is to observe and experience the season surrounding you with all your senses. Some of the best hiking spots and trails for adventuring near here include:

• Ridley Creek State Park

• The Chester Valley Trail

• Marsh Creek State Park

• East Goshen Park

• Hawk Mountain

• Stroud Preserve

• Ashbridge Preserve

3.) Shop at local small businesses

You can discover lots of intriguing items at local small businesses! Supporting small businesses helps support the local economy, and many exciting finds can be made there. Even walking around downtown West Chester you’ll find bakeries, art galleries, clothing boutiques, and more! Other examples of small businesses to visit include farmer’s markets, antique stores, and restaurants. Shopping at local businesses lets you discover autumn in all its forms, for example: finding the best apple cider donuts in the world!

4.) Attend an event near you

There are so many events going on near us that provide an excellent opportunity to support causes, get involved, be creative, and have a good time! With a quick google search of “events near me”, you’ll find performances, festivals, parades, and ways to volunteer this fall. Sharing fall warmth and happiness, especially around Thanksgiving, is an amazing way to celebrate the season!

5.) Some other ways to make the most of fall outdoors or away from home:

• Go stargazing- It’s truly breathtaking!

• Try an escape room- Google, “escape rooms near me”!

• Visit a vineyard or orchard- Good food and pretty views!

• Fly a kite- Or make one of your own and try flying it!

• Go to a museum- Natural history, American history, art history, oh my!

• Go swimming- At a warm indoor pool!

• Visit a lake- Slightly frozen-over lakes are beautiful; just remember warm clothing!