Fall Activities for the Season

By Jessica Lipman

     It is time to say goodbye to the long pool days and the sandy beaches of summer and hello to colorful leaves and sweater weather. As we approach fall, not only are the colors of the leaves changing, but so are the variety of activities to do during the season. This autumn, try to make the most of what this season has to offer with these fun-filled activities. 
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     The fall season is all about spending time outdoors and embracing the change of weather. Some outdoor activities include going to a local orchard, corn maze, or farm. At Larriland Farm in Woodbine, there is a wide variety fruits and vegetables that you are able to pick yourself. At the farm, they also sell pumpkins, apple cider, and other fall treats. On the weekends they provide hayrides to display the scenery of the farm during the autumn. Everyday they allow customers to get lost in the straw maze and search for the pumpkins throughout the field to decide which one they want to take home and decorate.

     Attending fall festivals is a great way to celebrate and start off the season. Local festivals in Baltimore provide a wide variety of activities, games, and food for everyone to enjoy. The Oktobearfest at the Maryland Zoo in Baltimore provides a variety of food from German inspired to vendings. The event also provides live music and is held on October 21st at 12 pm. The Holt Harvest Day provides activities for everyone to enjoy. Activities include pumpkin painting, crafts, vendors, and more. The one day festival is in Baltimore on October 21st.    

​     With the colder weather approaching us, that means it is time to make warm and delicious treats. These snacks are especially even better when they are fall themed! Pumpkin cinnamon rolls are Junior Maddy Jansen’s, favorite fall snack because it “takes a spin on the regular cinnamon rolls we are used to but with a twist to fit into this season.”

Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls Recipe:
2-3/4 to 3-1/4 cups all-purpose flour, divided 1 package (1/4 ounce) active dry yeast
1/2 cup solid-pack pumpkin
2/3 cup whole milk
2 tablespoons sugar
4 tablespoons butter, divided
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 large egg, beaten
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Caramel Frosting:
2 tablespoons butter
1/4 cup packed brown sugar
1 tablespoon whole milk
1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Dash salt
1/4 to 1/3 cup confectioners' sugar

     Apples and caramel are a classic pair, especially when they’re in the form of a cupcake. It starts off with an apple spiced cupcake topped off with caramel buttercream. Caramel apple cupcakes melt in your mouth and are perfect for any fall occasion.

Caramel Apple Cupcakes Recipe:
1 package spice or carrot cake mix (regular size)
2 cups chopped peeled tart apples (about 2 medium)
20 caramels
3 tablespoons 2% milk
1 cup finely chopped pecans, toasted
12 wooden skewers (4-1/2 inch)

     Whether it is being outdoors and enjoying the climate change or staying inside and baking a one of a kind treat, there is always something everyone can do this autumn. With these activities, you will be able to make the most out of your fall season.