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7 Cozy Low-Cost Fall Activities

Sep 23, 2024

cozy fall decor

Cozy Fall Activities To Do On A Budget

It’s that time of year again! Fall is upon us, and although the temperatures are still in the high 70s here, I am ready to bundle up with a hot chocolate and a blanket and kiss summer goodbye.

If you’re like me, you scroll through social media and see the glamourous fall photos people post from festivals and orchards, always wearing the latest chic American Eagle sweaters (no hate on AE, they have great items). BUT if you’re reading this, I am assuming you’re also like me in that you don’t have the time or money to replicate these pictures or activities for yourself.

 

If this is the boat you are in, just know that many others are in it with you including myself, so welcome! This is why I have compiled my top 7 Fall Activities you can do for little to no cost! Most of these do involve a little cost, such as buying some hot cocoa mix or a pumpkin, so keep that in mind. Try a few of these out and remember it doesn’t take much money to enjoy the season!

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. This means I will receive a small commission with no extra cost to you if you click through and make a purchase. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Go For a Scenic Nature Walk:

 

One of the best things about fall is the stunning display of colorful foliage. Whether you live near a park, forest, or a tree-lined street, a nature walk offers a refreshing way to enjoy the season. Bring a camera or your phone to capture the vivid reds, oranges, and yellows, and don’t forget to breathe in the crisp autumn air.

This is a great opportunity as the holiday season kicks off to spend quality time with those you love. Another perk of the scenic walk? IT’S FREE! I don’t know about you, but I need to walk more anyways, so this is definitely at the top of my list.

Pro tip: You can collect fall leaves and use them for fun DIY crafts (more on that below!)

scenic fall trail
girl pulling wagon of pumpkins at a pumpkin patch

Visit A Local Pumpkin Patch:

 

What better way to get into the fall spirit than going to a pumpkin patch? Not all of these events are free. The price of admission is typically small, and if you know how to make a budget, setting aside a few extra bucks for this fun excursion should be no problem!

Another perk is that there are typically activities included in the price of admission. These include wagon rides, play areas for the kids, and sometimes even shows or concerts.

You can also buy a pumpkin of your own here to carve, BUT I’d recommend waiting until you find one that is just as good marked down at your local grocery store (just saying.)

Make Your Own DIY Hot Chocolate Bar:

 

Who doesn’t love a steaming mug of hot chocolate in the fall? Making your own a DIY hot chocolate bar is a cozy, affordable activity that’s perfect for a small gathering or a solo treat. All you need is some hot chocolate mix, a few toppings like marshmallows, whipped cream, or cinnamon, and you’re set! Personally, I like to mix my hot chocolate with my milk frother I got cheap from amazon!

Your local dollar store probably has plenty of $1-2 dollar decorations and containers you can get to make your hot-chocolate bar even more festive! All of the fall decor at mine just went on sale. Considering it was all cheap to begin with, you can imagine my delight to see it was even further marked down. So check out your local dollar stores and see if they have any supplies you can use.

To take it up a notch, you can even try making homemade hot chocolate from scratch, which is more cost-effective and fun!

 

scenic fall trail

Movie Marathon (Need I Say More?):

 

Come on, we ALL know fall is the time to either rewatch your favorite movies or binge-watch a TV show. There is no shame in rewatching the Harry Potter movies for the 10th year in a row (maybe more than that but who is counting.)

This a great weekend activity that can be free if you already have the movies and a few snacks lying around. This would also be a perfect time to have that DIY hot chocolate bar to add some extra coziness to your day!

Grab some blankets, pillows, food, and the person you’re gonna force to watch the same movies as you did last year. Then begin your marathon and keep it going for as long as you see fit.

girl pulling wagon of pumpkins at a pumpkin patch

Read a Fall-Themed Book:

 

Mystery, thriller horror! These are all genres that evoke the feelings of the fall season! There is nothing cozier than a warm blanket, a nice candle, and a book that you can’t put down. Add in your favorite beverage and you’ve got yourself a night!

Not into horror or thrillers? No problem! many historical novels like Pride and Prejudice and Shakespeare can also bring the feelings of the fall season to life.

The best part of this idea is that it is free! If you don’t own many books, just head to your local library and pick up something you like. Or, if you’d rather not leave the house, attach your library card to the virtual library app Libby for free digital and audiobooks. I am personally using Libby right now and listening to the audiobook for Bram Stoker’s Dracula. It’s incredible!

 Get Creative with DIY Fall Crafts:

 

Embrace your inner crafter with some DIY fall crafts using affordable or even free materials. You can make wreaths, garlands, or centerpieces using collected leaves, pinecones, and acorns from your nature walks.

Other ideas include painting pumpkins (remember to buy these for cheap at your local grocery store and not the pumpkin patch), creating your own candles with autumn scents, or knitting cozy scarves.

Pinterest and YouTube are full of easy tutorials to inspire your next craft session, making this an accessible activity for all skill levels.

Bake Your Own Seasonal Comfort Food:

 

Nothing says fall like the smell of freshly baked seasonal treats. Whether it’s pumpkin bread, apple pie, or cinnamon rolls, baking at home is a cozy and inexpensive way to embrace autumn flavors.

Many fall baking ingredients, like canned pumpkin or apples, are very affordable, and you can often find them on sale during the season. Once again, Pinterest is gonna be your friend in finding recipes for all skill levels. Believe it or not, you don’t have to be good at baking or have ever baked before to give it a try!

Not only is baking a fun solo or group activity, but it also leaves you with delicious homemade goods to enjoy with a warm beverage on a chilly day.

 

scenic fall trail

 But before you do any of this, SLOW DOWN

 

Fall is all about slowing down, getting cozy, and enjoying the simple pleasures of the season. With these seven affordable and cozy activities, you can make the most of autumn without overspending. Just remember to take some time out of your day to take a step back and HAVE FUN! 

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