Fall and family go together like pumpkin and spice. It is such a festive time when the weather changes and pumpkin patches show up in South Florida. The fall season is unique in Miami as our leaves do not change and the temperatures do not drop that low. Yet it is a time for families to kick off the holiday season with pumpkin patches, trick-or-treat events, and harvest festivals. As a grandparent, I love opportunities to bring the grandkids together and pass on our family traditions. Here are a few fun fall activities we do to usher in the season with our grandkids.
Visit the Pumpkin Patch
Going to a pumpkin patch is a great way to get in the mood for fall. Seeing all the pumpkins and their bright orange colors is such a pretty sight. Miami has many different pumpkin patches to choose from and they each have their own unique style. Each location seems to have more than just a pumpkin patch; they offer hayrides, apple picking, corn mazes, a petting zoo, and pony rides. I love getting outside with our grandchildren and enjoying the fall sights, sounds, and smells.
Fun in Costume
Choosing a costume and getting ready to trick or treat for candy is always a blast. One of my favorite parts of childhood is make-believe and children pretend to be the princess or superhero. For the past few years, my daughter has invited me to join her family as they participate in Trunk or Treat at their church. My daughter’s family decorates a trunk and we all dress up in whatever theme they choose. We have been Disney, Paw Patrol, and this year is Power Rangers. Tons of cars decorate their trunks and kids can walk around and trick-or-treat for candy. It is a fun and safe alternative to load up on free candy and enjoy a fall night with the community.
Fall Pumpkin Party
Everything pumpkin is the theme of this day! It is probably one of the most fun activities to plan for as the adult kids and the grandkids all come over for a family dinner. We decorate for fall and make the grandkids’ table festive with their Boo baskets full of surprises. We plan time for arts and crafts and a yummy dinner. My husband made jack-o’-lantern stuffed green peppers for the big kids. The grandkids’ favorite activity was decorating cookies. They loved putting on the icing and sprinkles. Mimi handled all the mess and clean up which put a smile on their parents’ faces.
Once I became a grandmother, I looked for resources to help me find fun events for the littles. Miami Mom Collective is known for their amazing events and activities that they host for moms and their children. If you haven’t yet checked out the Fall Events and Activities Guide, now is the time. If you only have time for one outing or this is all new to you, check out Hanging with Heroes, a fun family Halloween event that honors heroes. Not having the typical northern autumn doesn’t stop South Florida from having a party. I love being able to support my adult kids and plan fun fall festivities for the grandkids! Anytime I can host family time is fun time for me!
