How to Safely Enjoy Fall Activities During COVID-19

Autumn has arrived in the U.S. and the number of new COVID-19 cases seems to be trending downward. That’s good news all around for people who are glad to welcome cooler temperatures and are eager to partake in some fall activities. 

Of course, while COVID-19 infections are dropping, that doesn’t mean the virus is “in retreat” and will soon be gone forever. It simply means that more people are getting vaccinated and taking appropriate disease-prevention measures, so the spread of the virus is slowing. We still need to be vigilant, but we can also celebrate the arrival of fall more freely than we did last year.

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10 Safe Ways to Have Some Fall Fun

Below are 10 autumn activities you can enjoy while still being mindful of COVID-19 and your health.

1. Get pumpkins from the pumpkin patch for carving jack-o’-lanterns. Outdoor activities where there’s plenty of room to move around are a great way to have some fun without greatly increasing your COVID-19 risk. Just be sure to maintain as much distance as possible if you’re around people outside of your family and wear a mask if you’re in enclosed areas like gift shops. 
   
2. Bake fall-favorite goodies. Spend time with your family or have some vaccinated friends over to create delicious treats featuring apple, pumpkin, and all your favorite seasonal flavors. 
   
3. Go on a nature hike. Walking is an excellent way to get some fresh air and low-impact exercise. And when you factor in the changing leaves and maybe a little chill in the air, it’s even more fun. 
   
4. Go apple picking. If there’s an orchard near you that allows customers to pick apples, grabbing a basket and collecting some fruit is one of the most fall-like activities there is. And then you get to go home with delicious apples to eat as-is, use in recipes, or dunk in some caramel dip!
   
5. Have a scavenger hunt. Have someone stash items that represent autumn in and around your house and then go in search of those treasures. For an extra challenge, wait until after dark and use flashlights as you go on your hunt. Just be sure everyone takes their time and avoids any unseen obstacles!
   
6. Create some fall decorations. The activity itself is fun for young and old alike, and then you can display and admire your creations throughout the season. 
   
7. Play a game by candlelight. Your favorite board or card game can be even more fun when played in the flickering candlelight. Remember that adults need to oversee the lighting, use, and extinguishing of candles.
   
8. Go to a fall fair or agricultural show. Many towns and organizations put on outdoor fairs and other events in the fall. Attending these events can be a wonderful way to enjoy the energy of being around others without being too close to others. 
   
9. Have a fall movie marathon. Whether you like kid-friendly flicks or scary stuff, there are plenty of movies that have a definite fall feel. 
   
10. Gather ‘round the bonfire. If you have a fire pit, bundle up, sip some hot chocolate, and make s’mores as you listen to the fire crackle. If it’s appropriate for the age group present, telling some ghost stories can be spooky fun!  

Don’t take a chance with your health.

Getting the COVID-19 vaccine is the best way to prevent COVID-19 infection and end the pandemic. The vaccine cannot give you COVID-19, but it can help protect you from serious illness. Learn more about the COVID-19 vaccine and make a first, third, or booster vaccination appointment at a location near you. 

Fall Fun Is Back!

After a year when so many events had to be canceled, fall fun is back on the calendar. The best way to enjoy it is to be fully vaccinated, of course. But even if you’re vaccinated, you should take common-sense precautions like social distancing and masking as needed to reduce your risk of contracting COVID-19. 

So, plan some fall activities and make the most of the season!

Next Steps and Useful Resources:

Find a Provider Near You
5 Fall Favorites That Are Bad For Your Waistline
What You Need to Know About Traveling During COVID-19
What Does a COVID-19 Test Cost?