Everyone's heard of bucket lists. You might even have your own tucked into a journal somewhere. (Skydiving, anyone?)
But we've got an idea for a fall family bucket list that's actually made from a bucket -- or a container of some sort, at least. The best part? This is a bucket list the whole family can take part in completing.
So if you're looking for ways to celebrate autumn with your family, look no further. This simple bucket list craft will engage your kids and get everyone in the family involved!
All you need to make your own fall bucket list is:
- An empty mason jar or can (your "bucket")
- Embellishments like paint, burlap, ribbons, flowers, or stickers
- Craft sticks
- A fine point marker
Decorate the container with your family, or prep it ahead of time. Then, using the marker, write one fall activity on each craft stick. This is a great way to get the whole family involved; each family member -- no matter how young! -- can pick a few of their favorite fall activities or traditions that are important to them to include.
Then take turns selecting a stick for family fall fun! You can do this by choosing randomly or letting one person choose from the sticks that are left. You can choose every day, or just when you have an afternoon free -- the great thing about this "bucket list" is that it can be unique to every family!
Need some fun ideas to fill your fall "bucket"? We've got you covered with these 21 ideas:
1. Wear flannel
The whole family wears flannel! After all, no other clothing says "fall" like a comfy flannel shirt.
2. Paint a pumpkin
Less mess and just as fun as carving! (Looking for more no-carve pumpkin ideas?)
3. Make lazy caramel apples
Buy pre-made caramel dip, slice apples and place some different topping options in small bowls (peanuts, sprinkles, coconut flakes). Take an apple slice, dip it into the caramel sauce, dip it into a topping, and devour. Repeat.
4. Go apple picking
It's the perfect way to get outdoors during the fall season. (Check out our Apple Guide here!)
5. Explore the Botanic Gardens
There is lots to see and do at Chatfield Farms, and it is absolutely gorgeous there in the fall. If you are lucky, you will catch them on a year when Fall brings a Corn Maze, Pumpkin Festival, and fall family activities to the farm.
Or, get lost at Glow in the Gardens at the Denver location, when the garden dresses up for Halloween. Jack-o-Lanterns and pumpkins, grown right on property, are sculpted into illuminated works of art.
7. Bake Pumpkin Bread
Nothing smells better than pumpkin bread in the over. I make this recipe every year and hand out to friends and neighbors. They never let me forget!
8. Get fired up
Fall is the perfect time of year to cuddle up around a backyard campfire, or perhaps to light up your fireplace for the first time this season. You can even lay out some pillows and blankets near the fireplace and take turns telling your favorite "scary" stories or sharing family memories.
9. Settle in for a story time and snuggle
Find a big family blanket and read aloud together from a favorite book. (Looking for new favorites? Here are nine of our favorite Halloween books!)
10. Host a chili potluck
Gather with friends and family and ask everyone to bring their favorite chili recipe! Or you can provide the chili and ask everyone to bring a topping or a side like baked potatoes, cornbread, tortilla chips, and cheese!
11. Take a hike or do a fall Scavenger Hunt
Enjoy the fall air and collect orange, yellow, and red leaves on a nature walk. Find an easy Scavenger Hunt here! What other signs of the changing season can your kids find?
12. Visit Anderson Farms
Anderson Farms has something for everyone in your family. There are so many fun things to do... a Fall Festival chock full of activities for all ages, Pick Your Own Pumpkins, delicious treats, Zombie Paintball, and Terror in the Corn will keep you all busy for hours!
13. Tailgate
Whether it's a high school, college, or pro game, tailgating is a fun way to gather with friends and family on a fall weekend afternoon.
14. DIY Decorations
Decorate your house or yard as a family! Check out our Easy Fall Bunting Craft or Halloween Silhouettes Activity to get started.
15. See a show
High school theatres are debuting their fall productions all over the city. This is a great way to introduce your family to the theatre, or get them excited about joining the cast of their own school's show.
16. Fall fun at Elitch Gardens
Fall has become our favorite time to hit the rides at Elitch Gardens. Standing in lines is so much more pleasant when you are not dripping with sweat. Plus, Fright Fest!
17. Embrace everything pumpkin
Don't fight it. You know it's going to happen despite your best efforts! We'll ease you into the pumpkin fun with our easy Pumpkin Smoothie Recipe.
18. Head for the hills
If you've never witnessed the Aspen trees in the Fall, you are really missing out! Use this awesome Fall Foliage Predictor to pinpoint the best time to take a drive up to the mountains.
19. Discover a whole new world
Immerse yourself in Distortions Monster World, where you'll discover amazing photo ops, infamous movie characters, and monsters even the kids will enjoy!
20. Jump in!
No matter how old you are, it's still fun to jump into a massive pile of leaves! Don't forget the camera!
21. Check your Macaroni Kid calendar!
Our calendar is stuffed full of local fall fun for you and your family! Pick from any of the local events listed on our calendar to find your fall family fun!
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