Whether it be the sweater weather, Thanksgiving food, Halloween – and the celebration of free candy – or the fact that my birthday is in October, there are tons of reasons why fall has always been my favourite season. Throughout the years of living in Toronto, I’ve gathered a collection of fun mini adventures for autumn, and whether you’re a fall person or not there’s something for everyone!

 

1) Baking day

One of my favourite things about the holidays is an excuse to bake, however it doesn’t have to be holiday-exclusive! There are tons of delicious fall recipes that can be done on a cozy fall afternoon. Why not make a day out of it? Invite over friends, play some tunes….and eat! Pumpkin spice recipes specifically are a hit amongst my friends, for some yummy and creative ideas click here!

2) Take a walk through high park

High Park is truly beautiful year round, however the fall is it’s highlight. With the trees changing colours all around, any path through the park will be enjoyable. Maybe pop by the zoo to say goodbye to the animals before they move for the winter!

3) Chudleigh’s Apple Farm

Whether it be with family, friends, or your significant other, apple picking is a perfect fall activity. Aside from taking the time to visit the stunning land outside of the city, the farm fresh apples are not only delicious, but also perfect for apple-based fall recipes! For more info on Chudleigh’s click here.

4) Pumpkin picking

Similar to the above activity, pumpkin picking is fun no matter who you’re with! Stereotypical to fall, the pumpkins of your choice are perfect for baking – pies, muffins, roasted seeds or cookies – or could be your new model for the extravagant jack-o-lantern you’re planning this year. It’s also a good excuse to venture just outside the city to multiple locations set for choosing your fall gourds.

5) Check out one of the city’s street festivals

From Uki Fest to Taste of the Danforth to the Polish Festival, there are tons of different sections of Toronto being closed off for celebrations. There’s something for everyone; trying different foods, homemade jewelry and crafts stands, carnival rides, as well as face paint and henna tattoos. Toronto Festivals are always a hit – go for a few hours, the day, or even the whole weekend!

6) Hit up a concert

From Harry Styles to Hanson to DeadMau5 to Paramore, there are tons of artists visiting the city this fall, at select venues all around. Even if tickets are sold out online, be sure to check resale options because some because available last minute!

7) Celebrate Oktoberfest

Even if you’re not German, grab a beer and dance along to traditional German tunes at one of the many celebrations across Toronto/the GTA. There will be parties going on starting the end of September going all the way until mid October, so get out there with your friends, and maybe make some new European ones too!

8) Arts and crafts

Stuck inside on a rainy fall weekend? Pull out your computer and check out Pinterest! There are tons of do-it-yourself craft ideas, whether fall-themed, holiday-themed or just scrapbooking, there’s something to keep you busy for a while. Pro tip: hit up the dollar store for lots of cheap arts supplies.

9) Browse Toronto’s hidden markets

Whether it be Kensington Market or St. Lawrence Market, there are enough places to occupy you for a while – and pick up cute souvenirs as well!

10) Play tourist

Sure, we may live in the beautiful Canadian city that is Toronto – or The 6ix as it is now commonly known – but how often do we really take advantage of our main attractions? The CN Tower, Ripley’s Aquarium, sports games at the Rogers Centre or the ACC, Harbourfront; these are all common names for the residents of this city but how many have actually been? It is definitely worthwhile to play tourist for a day, weekend or full week and pay tribute to the  iconic Torontonian landmarks.