Last Updated September 2025
Autumn officially starts today, but for us, it has already been in full swing for a few weeks. There’s something magical about this season, with its crisp mornings, golden leaves, and the excitement of the months ahead. Autumn is actually my favourite season because it marks the beginning of my favourite four months of the year. I love Autumn and everything about it, the cooler weather, the cosy evenings, the Autumnal colours, and, most importantly, all the family traditions and fun days out we have planned.
For families like ours, October through December is always a busy time. We often end up doing more during these months than the rest of the year combined! From pumpkin picking to Halloween events, Blackpool illuminations, and cosy nights in watching Netflix or Disney+, Autumn is packed full of activities that make it our favourite time of year. In this post, I want to share with you some of our family Autumn traditions, favourite days out, and seasonal activities that you might want to try with your children.
October Half Term Fun
October half term is always a highlight for us. As a family who loves Halloween, we try to cram in as many Halloween-themed events as possible. For years, one of our favourite half-term traditions has been heading up to Blackpool to see the Blackpool Illuminations. We’ve been visiting for over 20 years, and it’s never lost its magic. There’s something truly special about walking along the promenade, watching the lights reflect on the sea, and enjoying the carnival atmosphere. It’s a perfect evening out for families, and it’s a tradition we hope to continue for many more years.
If you’re planning a trip to Blackpool in Autumn, I’d recommend checking out the illuminations schedule, booking a family-friendly hotel nearby, and packing plenty of warm clothes. The lights are best enjoyed in the evening, and the fresh sea air makes it a perfect Autumn family outing.
Pumpkin Picking Adventures
Pumpkin picking is a newer tradition for us, but it has quickly become a firm favourite. A few years ago, we hadn’t really considered going to a pumpkin patch, but after chatting with a friend who raved about it, we decided to give it a try. It was such a fun experience! We spent time wandering around the patch, searching for the perfect pumpkin to bring home. Everyone gets involved, and it’s lovely to see the children enjoying the simple joy of picking their own pumpkin.
Last year, I even shared a post listing the best pumpkin patches in the UK with input from other bloggers, helping families plan their own pumpkin-picking trips. This year, we’re hoping to visit Kenyon Hall Farm, which has consistently offered a fantastic range of pumpkins. Pumpkin picking is such a simple activity, but it’s perfect for Autumn and makes a lovely addition to family traditions.
Theme Park Traditions - Scarefest at Alton Towers
Another annual Autumn tradition for our family is visiting Alton Towers for their Scarefest or fireworks events. Scarefest is an incredible experience for families who enjoy a little spooky fun. There’s a mix of rides, themed scare zones, and festive decorations that really get you into the Halloween spirit. Even if you’re not a huge fan of scares, there’s plenty to enjoy—from family-friendly rides to seasonal treats and shows.
We also love attending fireworks events during Autumn. Many theme parks and local attractions host spectacular displays in October and November, making it a perfect excuse for a family night out. If you haven’t experienced a theme park fireworks night before, it’s well worth planning a visit.
Disneyland Paris Adventures
This Autumn, we’re extra excited because we’ll be visiting Disneyland Paris! Visiting Disneyland is always magical, but experiencing it during the Autumn season is something special. The parks are beautifully decorated with pumpkins, Autumn leaves, and Halloween-themed touches that make the whole experience feel festive and fun.
We’re planning to enjoy all the classic rides, take part in any seasonal events, and of course, indulge in plenty of treats along the way. For families, Disneyland Paris offers something for everyone—from thrilling rides for the older kids to meet-and-greets with favourite Disney characters, and even quieter attractions for little ones.
Autumn is the perfect time to visit because the parks are slightly quieter than in the summer, making it easier to explore without long waits. We’re planning to share tips and highlights from our trip, including the best attractions for families, seasonal shows, and how to make the most of a short Disneyland Paris visit.
If you’re thinking about a family trip to Disneyland Paris this Autumn, it’s a fantastic choice for creating magical memories and enjoying the festive fall atmosphere.
Autumn Entertainment at Home
Of course, not every Autumn activity has to involve going out. The start of Autumn usually coincides with new seasons dropping on streaming platforms like Netflix and Disney+. There’s nothing better than snuggling under a blanket with the family, enjoying hot chocolate, and binge-watching favourite shows. Autumn evenings are perfect for family movie nights, trying out new board games, or reading together. These cosy moments are just as special as any day out.
We’ve found that having a few quiet evenings at home during the autumn months gives everyone a chance to slow down, relax, and enjoy the season. It’s the perfect balance to the busier weekends filled with trips and activities.
Other Autumn Activities to Enjoy
Autumn is packed with other family-friendly activities. Here are a few that we always look forward to:
Nature Walks - Autumn leaves make the perfect backdrop for outdoor adventures. Collecting colourful leaves, spotting wildlife, and enjoying crisp air is a simple but memorable activity.
Farm Visits - Many local farms host Autumn festivals, offering tractor rides, petting animals, and seasonal treats like apple cider.
Halloween Crafts - Pumpkin carving, spooky decorations, and DIY costumes are fun indoor activities that keep the family entertained.
Local Events - Keep an eye on local community events. Autumn fairs, craft markets, and seasonal workshops are excellent ways to spend a weekend.
Autumn is a season full of opportunities to explore, learn, and create lasting memories with your family. Whether you’re planning a big day out or a cosy evening at home, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Looking Forward to a Fun Autumn
This Autumn, I’m excited to continue our family traditions and try out new experiences. From Blackpool Illuminations to pumpkin picking, Scarefest at Alton Towers, and cosy Netflix nights, there’s so much to look forward to. I’ll be sharing all of our adventures here on the blog, giving you plenty of ideas for family fun, seasonal activities, and Autumn inspiration.
Autumn is a time to make memories, enjoy the beauty of the season, and spend quality time with loved ones. We can’t wait to get started!
Michelle
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