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Though summer has come to an end and long days at the beach may now be behind us, there are still many opportunities for festive family fun on Long Island. The changing of the seasons brings us colorful leaves to play in, pumpkins to pick, cider to drink and hay bales to climb, evoking a sense of wonder and excitement in children and adults alike. The cool autumn weather and approaching holidays always seems to bring families even closer together. Make this season special by participating in some of the family-friendly fall activities listed below! Each activity is simple, stress-free and great for creating new memories together – perfect for the kids and kids-at-heart!
Go Apple Picking Together: The chilly weather marks the beginning of the fall harvest, meaning the apples are ripe and ready to be picked off the trees! There are many local, family-owned orchards on Long Island to choose from, such as 7 Ponds Orchard in Watermill and Harbes Family Farm in Mattituck. Engage the kids by playing games while picking. See who can find the largest apple and award the winner with a small prize. At the end of the day, make caramel apples together using a simple at-home kit from your local grocery store.
Attend Local Farmer's Markets: Going to the farmer's market is not only a great way to buy incredibly fresh produce while supporting local farmers, it's a lot of fun! Take the kids to your local farmer's market and let them help you select some crisp fall fruits and vegetables. This new tradition can even get them excited about healthy eating. The Southampton Chamber of Commerce Farmer's Market will be open Sundays throughout the month of October, from 9am-2pm. The Market is located on the east side grounds of the Southampton Arts Center at 25 Jobs Lane. Over 25 vendors will be featured selling farm-fresh produce, baked goods, jams, spices, teas, gluten-free and vegan products, wine from local vineyards, natural skincare products, soaps, artisan jewelry, natural pet treats and more! While you're in town, stop by our Southampton Gallery right down the street and say hi!
Make Your Own Apple Cider: There's nothing better than a warm cup of cider on a cool autumn day. Follow this easy, kid-friendly recipe to make your own hot cider at home.
Book a Family Photo Session: Fall is the perfect season to book your family photo session. The scenery is beautiful and makes for incredible pictures! A photo session with Lucille is an experience the whole family will enjoy and remember forever. Have one- of-a-kind holiday cards made to send to all your loved ones this year – it's a special gesture that friends and family will cherish!
Go Pumpkin Picking: Make a day out of it and attend a local farm with many other attractions. Hank's Pumpkintown in Watermill offers corn mazes, wagon rides, pedal cart races, animals, games, education stations and more. As a safer and less messy alternative to pumpkin carving, paint your pumpkins with the kids and put them out on display!
Homemade Halloween Costumes and Decorations: Spend an afternoon making festive arts and crafts with the kids to use as decorations around your home. Let them unleash their creativity by putting together their own Halloween costumes this year.
Whatever you decide to do with your family this season, make sure you have as much fun as possible together. With all the festive activities that this time of year has to offer, you may just fall in love with autumn!