20 fall bucket list ideas - Episode 70
Fall is officially here, and there’s no better time to lean into cozy vibes, seasonal traditions, and little moments that make the season feel special.
In this week’s episode of Create & Consume, I’m sharing 20 fall bucket list ideas—from fashion and food, to travel and entertainment—that will help you reset, recharge, and savor autumn.
Create & consume:
What Austen is creating this week: My Canva brand deal!
What Austen is consuming this week: Taylor Frankie Paul as The Bachelorette announcement and reactions
In this episode:
Here are 20 things to add to your fall bucket list
Light a new fall candle
Nothing sets the seasonal mood like fragrance.
Whether you prefer affordable options or want to splurge on a luxury pick like Hotel Lobby Candle’s Aspen, Napa Valley, or New York scents, cozy notes like maple, apple, cinnamon, and campfire will instantly make your space feel autumnal.
Get organized at home
Think of this as a mini fall reset before the holidays.
Swap out your summer wardrobe for fall layers, freshen up décor, or tackle a closet clean-out to make room for new finds.
Do a fall mall day and shop seasonal trends
Channel some back-to-school nostalgia by hitting the mall.
Browse stores like Abercrombie or Bath & Body Works, grab a pretzel or latte, and enjoy people-watching while updating your wardrobe.
Try a new fall coffee or baked good
Go beyond the pumpkin spice latte—try an apple crisp macchiato, maple latte, chai, cider donut, or apple butter chai (my favorite from The Hive last year).
You could even challenge yourself to sample a new treat each month.
Read a mystery novel
There’s nothing cozier than curling up with a suspenseful read.
A few of my faves: The Cloisters, Such a Bad Influence, Society of Lies, First Lie Wins.
On my current TBR? The Ministry of Time, The Art of Vanishing, and some romance picks like Can’t Help Falling in Love and Battle of the Bookstores.
Find a favorite fall TV show
Perfect for nights in—rewatch classics like Gilmore Girls or Friday Night Lights or dive into something new.
Go apple or pumpkin picking
A timeless fall activity that makes for fun photos and even better recipes once you bring your haul home.
Host a Sunday football watch party
Game day is more about cozy snacks and good company than football.
Make it fun with themed menus (think chili, nachos, cider, pigs in a blanket, or Trader Joe’s bites).
Spend the morning at a museum
Fall is the perfect time to slow down and soak up art.
On my list: the Cloisters in NYC with its gardens, medieval art, and gorgeous views.
Plan a foliage trip
Whether it’s upstate New York, Stowe, Vermont, the Berkshires, or the Adirondacks, a fall getaway filled with leaf-peeping, cozy inns, and cider is peak autumn.
Attend a local event
Find a nearby street fair, craft show, or festival. For me, the Hoboken Arts Festival is a fall favorite.
Have a fall picnic
Less sweaty than summer, more cozy than spring—fall picnics are ideal. Bring a blanket, seasonal snacks, and maybe hot cider in a thermos.
Bake something seasonal from scratch
Pumpkin bread, apple crisp, or a hearty homemade soup—turn it into a weekend kitchen project.
Recreate a Pinterest-worthy fall photo
Even if you’re not a content creator, it’s fun to capture the season—think pumpkins on brownstone steps, colorful leaves, or cozy cafés.
Need outfit inspo? Check out my recent fall fashion episode.
Go to a farmer’s market
Load up on apples, squash, and Brussels sprouts and let seasonal produce inspire your cooking.
Do a Halloween movie marathon
Depending on your vibe, go spooky (Hocus Pocus, Harry Potter) or scary.
Take a long fall walk or hike
Bundle up, put on your favorite playlist or podcast, and enjoy crisp air and changing leaves.
Try a new fall beauty trend
Experiment with latte makeup, deeper lip shades, or dark nail polish.
I even have a brown makeup tutorial on my YouTube channel for inspiration.
Decorate your home for the season
Mini pumpkins, garlands, cozy blankets, and a fall wreath can bring instant warmth without going overboard.
Host a Friendsgiving or potluck
A casual, festive get-together before the holidays.
Everyone brings a dish, which keeps things low-stress and fun.
Summary
Fall is about slowing down, savoring cozy moments, and creating little traditions that make the season feel special.
Whether you’re lighting a new candle, planning a foliage trip, baking something seasonal, or simply refreshing your routines at home, there are endless ways to embrace autumn.
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