Fall is a gorgeous time of the year. The leaves are changing colors and sweater weather is in its prime. Here is awesome list of things to do for the autumn season with your friends and family!

1. Ghost photo shoot

A ghost photo shoot is so much fun because you can be creative and make it your own. You can try all kinds of locations, and different accessories. All you need is a plain white sheet! Walmart sheet: only $10

2. Pumpkin patch

There are all kinds of local pumpkin patches all around but here is a list of some of the best ones! Pumpkin patches in the Des Moines area

3. Halloween movie marathon

Halloween movies and scary movies are perfect for this time of year! Watch your favorite horror movie, but if you can’t think of one, choose from this list. Grab some candy and a bucket of popcorn!

4. Carve pumpkins

Carving pumpkins is the messiest part of Halloween, but it is so fun! You can free hand a design or even use a stencil! Here are some carving kits and patterns. Make your best Jack-O-Lantern yet!

5. Haunted house

Getting scared at a haunted house is a favorite Halloween activity! Two of the most popular houses open in the DSM area are Sleepy Hollow Scream Park and the Slaughterhouse Haunted House. *Don’t forget to follow all Covid-19 regulations if you go!

6. Make Halloween cookies

The easiest Halloween cookies to make are the Pillsbury sugar cookies! They come pre-made and you just pop them in the oven, not to mention the adorable designs they have on them!

7. Make pumpkin bread

Pumpkin bread is delicious! You can buy a mix from Trader Jo’s, they have great pumpkin flavored foods, or use one for you favorite recipes! This recipe from Food Network is so simple.

8. Apple picking

Most pumpkin patches also have places to apple pick, but here is a super local and adorable place to go: Will’s Family Orchard!

9. Make chili

Chili is the perfect meal for the fall! It is warm and fills you right up! The best chili recipe is this classic one that only takes 30 minutes to make.

10. Corn maze

One of the most popular corn mazes in Iowa is the Pumpkinville and Cornmaze. Corn mazes are so fun to get lost in and follow a map with your friends and family!