Welcome fall with 25 activities that make the most of the season

Sports fans everywhere gear up each fall season to witness their favorite college teams battle it out on the field. It's a chance for lovers of the sport to come together for tailgating, watch parties, and joking about friendly rivalries around the office water cooler.And who doesn't love an opportunity to come together with fellow fans to root for their favorites — and maybe even relive some of the excitement of their own college days.Going to a farmers market during the fall can be a feast for your senses.Whether you're picking out pumpkins and gourds to decorate your doorstep, or prepping for a feast full of finally-available fall veggies like Brussels sprouts and acorn squash, a local farmers market probably has what you need — and a few things that you don't, but stash in your shopping tote anyway. 'Tis the season for pie, especially apple and pumpkin. Now is the time to get your fill from your favorite bakery, farmers market vendor, or — if you've got the skills — bake your own. Black Friday and Cyber Monday are some of the biggest days of the year for bargain shoppers. And for good reason, retail and online stores typically post some pretty significant markdowns on those days.More recently, Small Business Saturday has been added to the mix. Observed on the Saturday after Thanksgiving, this annual event encourages consumers to visit and support the small, local businesses in their community.Who doesn't enjoy a house that smells like vanilla, caramel, cinnamon, or pumpkin pie? Lighting a candle with a signature fall sent can instantly change the look and feel of a room, invoking cozy, fall vibes in the flick of a match.Fall is one of the best times of the year to travel. Not only is it cheaper than traveling during the summer or holidays, but there are fewer crowds, beautiful foliage, and milder weather that's perfect for exploring.Fall is known for pumpkin-spiced drinks and treats, like the famous pumpkin spice latte at Starbucks, which has a huge fanbase. But once fall hits, the shelves are filled with delicious pumpkin-flavored products, from pumpkin M&Ms to pumpkin ice cream, which we eagerly await all year.Not too hot, yet not too cold either, fall weather is perfect for exploring, snuggling under the covers, or bringing out the fall scented candles.Two words: sweater weather. Falls marks the time of the year where you can snuggle up in a cozy sweater without having to worry about a bulky jacket just yet. Even better, between boots, hats, scarves and light coats the number of outfits to mix and match seems infinite.So many people get into a relationship during the fall that there's a name for the phenomenon: cuffing season. Studies have found that people are more likely to start coupling up in the fall and winter than during any other season.Fall marks the start of football season! So put on your favorite jersey and head to the nearest tailgate. With iconic shows like Grey's Anatomy and Scandal airing on TV during the fall, it is one of the best seasons for television. Even better, you can binge watch shows and stay indoors for hours without feeling guilty.The stunning hues of fiery red, yellow, and orange that take over trees every autumn are truly breathtaking. Fall brings you one step closer to the holiday season. Parents can rejoice in the fact that their kids once again have someplace to be every day, and students can get excited to see all their friends again. A true win-win. Pick your own apples and make some homemade apple pie, cider doughnuts, and other fall treats.Thanksgiving means quality time with family, great shopping deals, football, and, of course, a belly full of turkey.Fall cuisine is a category all its own. Peak season for apples, pears, squash, and sweet potatoes, fall might be the best time of the year for food. Whether you're getting outdoorsy and going apple picking, or noshing on seasonal dishes at a restaurant, your taste buds are sure to love fall.Although hot chocolate is delicious year-round, the chilly fall weather makes it that much better. Fall sees a lot of epic festivals around the world, like Oktoberfest, Diwali, London Fashion Week, Halloween, and Dia de los Muertos.There's both Black Friday and Cyber Monday to look forward to for some great sales and deals.Fall is the perfect time to go camping, and with camping obviously comes a cozy campfire and delicious s'mores.It seems like every street gets a little more festive during the falls months as people put pumpkins on their porches or hang wreaths on their doors. Of course, holiday decorations also start popping up to get you into the spirit.The stunning foliage is not only beautiful, but also fun to play in.Nothing screams fall like pumpkin picking. It's the perfect fall date activity or trip with the kids.

Welcome fall with 25 activities that make the most of the season

NCAA college football is back.

Farmers markets are filled with colorful picks.

Pies are the go-to dessert of the season.

You can stock up during once-a-year holiday sales.

You can finally light your fall-scented candles.

Travel is cheaper.

Pumpkin flavored everything hits shelves.

The weather is milder.

Your wardrobe is cozier.

It's prime partner-finding time.

It's tailgating season.

TV is great.

The foliage is stunning.

The holidays are around the corner.

It's back-to-school time.

There's apple picking.

There's Thanksgiving.

The seasonal food is amazing.

Hot chocolate becomes a totally acceptable order.

It's a season of great festivals around the world.

It's prime shopping time.

It's campfire season.

Outdoor decorations become a thing.

There are piles of leaves to jump in.

There are pumpkin patches to visit.