Here Are Some Fun And Almost Entirely Free Ways To Spend Your Fall Weekends That’ll Help You Save Money In Time For The Holidays

Ken
Ken - stock.adobe.com - illustrative purposes only

We have officially entered what I believe is the busiest time of the year: fall.

Over the summer, your personal and work responsibilities may have lightened up in the spirit of the warmer weather. Now, you’re probably getting back into your everyday routine (and addressing those things you put off over the last few months).

On top of that, there are a lot of events and holidays in the autumn, and you might even be preparing your budget for gift-giving in the winter.

With all of that being said, it can be tempting to fill up your free time with classic fall activities. But it’s also a smart idea to find ways to save as you soak up the cozy vibes.

That’s why we’ve compiled a list of fun and almost entirely free fall weekend ideas so you can enjoy the season without burning a hole in your wallet.

Scenic Drives Are Essential

The most beautiful part of fall is obviously the foliage, and taking a trip to see the changing leaves is totally free.

Yes, you will have to pay for some gas, yet aside from that, there are no other costs. Hop in your car with a friend, set out on the open road, and take in the sights of the stunning autumnal landscape.

You can bring along a warm beverage, like a chai latte or pumpkin spiced latte, and throw on your quintessential fall playlist to set the scene. Plus, you can even stop for a hike in your local area to extend the adventure.

Ken – stock.adobe.com – illustrative purposes only

Hit A Local Craft Fair Or Festival

Fall is the time when countless communities put on loads of events, like craft fairs, local festivals, and farmers’ markets. Pay attention to what’s going on in your town, and check them out!

You can simply enjoy strolling around if you don’t want to buy anything. Or, if you are able to spare a couple of bucks, there are sure to be tasty fall snacks, adorable decor pieces, and perhaps even some special attractions.

Host A Fall-Themed Competition

There are no two things that scream autumn better than chili and pumpkins. If you like either, why not host a bit of a competition?

For a cool afternoon, invite some friends over to participate in a pumpkin carving contest. You don’t even have to purchase any carving tools or template patterns from your local grocery store.

All you’ll really need is a pumpkin and a knife for yourself. You can make the event BYOP (bring your own pumpkin) and encourage everyone to create the best original design.

Or, if you’re more of a comfy fall evening lover, a chili cookoff is a great idea. All of your guests can prepare their chili at their own homes before coming over to your place.

Set up a blind sampling, have people cast their votes on anonymous paper ballots, and crown the chili king or queen.

Get Out To A Sports Game

The NFL theme song blaring from your living room TV may have been a Sunday staple in your house growing up, but you don’t have to blow hundreds of dollars on pro league tickets to get into the football spirit.

Chances are you have a local high school football team that’s just getting into the swing of their season. Grab a few friends, visit your alma mater, and sit in the bleachers to cheer on your hometown team.

It’s fun, free, and pretty nostalgic.

Movie Marathon

Finally, you can’t go wrong with a good old-fashioned fall movie marathon.

It doesn’t matter whether you love classic rom-coms or creepy horror films. Just compile a list of two to three movies and put on a little viewing at home.

You can watch them alone, with your partner, or with a few friends. That evening, you can cook a seasonal dish or spend your dinner budget on ordering some takeout.

Setting the vibe is cheap and easy, too. Pass out fuzzy blankets, put on your favorite fall pajamas, and light a few candles.

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