COVID-Safe Fun Fall Activities

By Madison O'Leary

As we all know, the last eight months have been one of the most difficult times of our lives. Our holiday celebrations have been put on-hold, we haven’t been able to spend as much time with our friends and family, and most of us have been stuck in our homes with absolutely nothing to do. However, this part of the year is also one of the most exciting times because there is so much to look forward to--the leaves are turning, the air is becoming crisper, and Halloween is just around the corner. Although our fall is going to be a bit different this year, there are still plenty of safe, festive activities to do that will cure our boredom and get us out of the house. Below, I have compiled a list of things that you can do to brighten your spirits and to get into the autumn mood:

1. Outdoor Picnics- Socially-distanced picnics are so much fun! They are a great way to gather with a small group of friends and to take advantage of the nice weather. I actually went on a picnic with my friends this past weekend in Tyler Park, and we had a great time. We found a nice, secluded spot, and we all got to catch up with each other (especially since we barely see each other in school now). All of us brought blankets, food, and drinks, and we all got to spread out and enjoy the scenery. I would highly recommend this activity!
2. Apple Picking- Thankfully, apple picking is still around this year! This is a great way to get outside and support local businesses. Two great spots to go apple picking are Solebury Orchards in New Hope and Styer Orchard in Langhorne. You can also stop by for apple cider, apple cider doughnuts, and wagon rides!
3. Hayrides and Pumpkin Picking- This is another fall activity that has managed to stay safe for COVID! Shadybrook Farm, located in Yardley, is having their fall fest starting Monday, October 12th. Hayrides will be offered all-day on weekends, with pumpkin picking included!
4. Baking- This is a more traditional activity that you can do in the comfort of your own home! A lot of us have been baking during the quarantine, but now we have a theme!
   
   I interviewed freshman students, Kaleigh O’Leary, Mairin Coghlan, and Elyse Bloom about their latest baking endeavor, and here is what they had to say:

Q: What did you decide to bake?
A: We baked vegan pumpkin cake pops! We watched a video online of someone making the recipe, so we decided to try it out!

Q: What was in the cake pops?
A: The recipe was pretty simple--we just used one box of spiced cake mix, a cup of pumpkin puree, and a cup of water. Then, we baked our mixture, crumbled it, and combined it with some vegan cream cheese frosting. We rolled the crumbs into balls, and then we dipped them in some non-dairy white chocolate.

Q: How did the recipe turn out?
A: Well, it was not the move. You have to make sure that you get all the correct ingredients before deciding to bake something. . . (don’t make your own pumpkin filling if you don’t know how!)

Oh well, not every recipe turns out the way it’s supposed to, but at least they had fun making their cake pops. Any one of these activities is a great way to take your mind off the current circumstances, and it’s a fun way to celebrate the fall weather. You can spend time with your family and friends and support local businesses at the same time! Just remember to wear your masks and to practice social distancing! 

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