How to enjoy fall in New England

I enjoy fall in New England more each year. The colors and foods almost make up for the passage from warm summer into cold dark days. If you want ideas for how to enjoy this region you live in, or this area that you plan to visit, try these steps.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Time in New England

1. 
    

   Check the peak foliage times on the National Weather service online.
   
   Depending on the part of New England you are in, there will be a different weekend when the fall colors are at their peak. This is because temperature and moisture can affect when the leaves turn, and when they fall off. If you want to enjoy the autumn foliage at its finest, make sure you're in the right place at the right time.

2. 
    

   Get outside and view the foliage.
   
   Whether you drive down the Mass Pike or a wooded street, or take a walk through a tree lined neighborhood, you don't want to miss the colors of the leaves in fall. If you'd like more tips on enjoying peak foliage, I've included a link in my resources.

3. 
    

   Enjoy apples!
   
   Apples are sweeter and crisper after the first frost. Buy locally squeezed apple cider. Or buy local apples and make your own warm, homemade applesauce. The cooking will make your whole house smell cozy and autumnal.

4. 
    

   Pick up some fall accessories for show and scent.
   
   Yankee candles are a New England tradition. And when the days get shorter and colder, a warm flame in a fall scent such as cinnamon, apple, or maple will stir up memories of fall from seasons past.
   
   Buy fall leaves, hardy mums, pumpkins and gourds to decorate your home and feel more seasonal.

5. 
    

   Pick up some maple syrup.
   
   This too tastes better when a chill hits the air before it's tapped. Have it on pancakes, waffles, or french toast.

6. 
    

   Start cooking again, generally!
   
   The heat from the summer can make cooking a chore. In the fall it will HELP to warm you up. Make hearty beef, chicken, or veggie stew.

7. 
    

   Start planning for Thanksgiving!
   
   Getting a head start will make the holiday more of a day to look forward to.

8. 
    

   Start your Christmas shopping.
   
   Make sure you can find your card list, and make a list of gifts for this year.

9. 
    

   Be glad it's not winter yet, ha ha!
   
   Enjoy autumn!

Resources

• Enjoy peak foliage

[Susang6]

on 9/11/2009 What a beautiful article and your pictures are perfect. I have some fond memories of New England in fall. Thanks for sharing.

[ReuseItAll]

on 11/7/2008 This makes me want to come up!!! Every fall we use to come to New England and as a kid we'd spend summers up there! You're article is definitely a throwback!!! Great tips!!