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 the embellishments. 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 15 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? Check out our story!)
3. Make easy caramel apples
Buy a premade carton of 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 and pumpkin picking and
It's the perfect way to get outdoors during the fall season. See our Fall Farm Guide.
5. Enjoy a spooky (or not so spooky) family movie night
Celebrate the season with a favorite Halloween movie! Spooky Buddies and Hotel Transylvania are favorites in our home!
6. Bake fall-inspired yumminess
The aroma of pumpkin spice cookies, pumpkin bread, or apple pie ... is anything better? Well, eating them of course! Check our archives for some great Fall recipes, including Pumpkin Muffins, Apple Crisp, Pumpkin Spice Cupcakes, Personal Pumpkin Pie, Apple Pudding, Pumpkin Bread, and Butternut Squash Bake.
7. 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 in months. You can even lay out some pillows and blankets near the fireplace and take turns telling your favorite "scary" stories or sharing family memories.
8. Settle in for a storytime and snuggle
Find a big family blanket and read aloud together from a favorite book.
9. 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!
10. Take a hike
Enjoy the fall air and collect orange, yellow, and red leaves on a nature walk. What other signs of the changing season can your kids find?
11. Decorate for the season
You can find pumpkins, hay bales, and lovely fall-colored mums at almost any store this time of year. The whole family can work together to create an inviting and autumn-inspired front porch montage.
12. 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.
13. 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!
14. 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!
