It’s actually dropping down below 70’s here in San Jose so that means cozying up in my oversized sweaters, busting out my boots and getting super comfy at home, bundled up on the couch. It’s so easy to fall into hibernation mode this time of year but in fact there is so much to do to keep active during this season.

Here are 6 Fall activities for you to do this season that will keep you active and moving:

Go to a Pumpkin Patch

There are so many great pumpkin patches in the Bay Area, its hard to narrow it down to the best ones but I will share the two that I visited over the past few weeks.

Webb Ranch in Portola Valley, CA 
This is a smaller pumpkin patch right off of Highway 280. My kids absolutely loved this patch because it had a little of everything from pony rides, to hay rides, to train rides, a petting zoo, a reptile zoo, an ice cream truck, bouncy houses and of course lots of different kinds of pumpkins. Wristbands to give you access to all the attractions is $30 per child (a little pricey in my opinion) but you can also purchase individual tickets. I really loved this pumpkin patch because its close to home while still having a farm like feel to it.

Spina Farms in San Jose, CA
A much larger pumpkin patch than Webb Ranch but so much fun! They have the usual train rides, maze, hay rides, etc… but the best part of this pumpkin patch is the wide variety of pumpkins they carry. We spent most of our time looking for the perfect pumpkin because Gabe was determined to get a perfectly round one!

Other pumpkin patches worth checking out:

Uesugi Farms in Gilroy
Arta’s Pumpkin Farm in Half Moon Bay 
Lemos Farm in Half Moon Bay
Farmer John’s Pumpkin Patch in Half Moon Bay
Smith Family Farm in Brentwood 
G & M Farms in Livermore

Visit a farmer’s market

Farmers markets are so much fun this time of year because of all the seasonal vegetables and fruits that are available. If you’re lucky you’ll even come across some that have live bands playing and activities for the kids such as arts and crafts tables. After a little shopping, go home and try a new recipe with all the fresh ingredients you just bought!

For a complete list of farmers markets in the Bay Area, click here.

Attend a Harvest Festival

There are so many harvest festivals going on this time of year its so hard to pick which one to go to. My advice? Find one that is fundraising for a good cause such raising money for a charity, school or church. It’s nice to know that your funds are going towards a greater good. Dress your kids up in their costume (might as well get a lot of use out of it) and spend an afternoon playing games, bobbing for apples and getting crafty.

Host a Friendsgiving Dinner

I love cooking for friends and family. It truly is one of the things that brings me so much joy in life seeing my loved ones enjoying a meal that I’ve prepared for them. But if cooking stresses you out, host a pot luck dinner and have your friends each bring a specific dish to share. And don’t forget the wine!

Go on a hike and check out the Autumn leaves

Pick a Saturday or Sunday where you can commit to setting your alarm clock early because the earlier the better! Dress warm, put on your hiking boots and get ready to breathe in the crisp air. There’s really nothing like taking a brisk hike or walk with your family for some one on one quality time away from all the distractions. Being one with nature is such a beautiful experience and I love how centered and calm it makes me feel. Take the time to get away from all the stress and noise and check out the beautiful fall foliage while enjoying some peace and quiet with your family.

Grab a group of friends or your family to play touch football or soccer at the park. Bring a picnic along too!

I’m not a huge sports person. In fact, while everyone is playing a sport, you can usually catch me in the sidelines, coffee in hand reading a magazine or a book. But, since I’ve been trying to be more active, my goal is to get out there and play with them and not just sit and there watch. Plus my kids will have memories of me playing with them and not just watching from the sidelines. It’s all about creating those memories!