Five Nebraska activities to celebrate fall
October 25, 2021
It’s that time of year where many people are thinking ahead for winter holidays, and often miss many opportunities for fun that fall has to offer. Here are five options in Nebraska to keep busy in the autumn season.
Vala’s Pumpkin Patch and Apple Orchard (12102 S. 180th St. Gretna, NE 68028)
Nebraska’s famous “Vala’s” opened Sep. 24 and is open until Oct. 31. The pumpkin patch brings a huge sense of the fall vibe. Besides it just being a pumpkin patch, there are many different activities to partake in. Obstacle courses, jumping pillows, pig races, and playground equipment are just the beginning of what to do.
The food itself is a reason to go. While the kids (and teens) are playing around, the rest of the family can get any fall treat they can imagine, warm cookies, pretzels, pies and turkey legs. Vala’s is the perfect fall experience and a great time for the whole family.
Fontenelle Forest (1111 Bellevue Blvd. N. Bellevue NE 68005)
Fontenelle Forest is a good choice for the more active fall activity participants. You can choose to walk the trail while looking at the forest around you or partake in the TreeRush Adventures surrounded by the orange in the leaves. Fall is the best time to take the family or even just yourself to explore. The cooler weather reduces the scorching heat of the summer to a minimum and the forest is at its prettiest.
Painting tiny pumpkins
While carving pumpkins screams Halloween, painting pumpkins says fall. A cute painting on a small pumpkin can be kept out during the entirety of autumn instead of just before Halloween. You can paint thanksgiving designs and decorate the table where your family gathers for the delicious feast. It’s a fun activity to do with family or friends outside in the nice weather with the songs of your choice playing in the background.
Kimmel Orchard and Vineyard (5995 G Road Nebraska City, NE 68410)
Everyone knows the staple of going apple picking, so you should go do it. Make the day by going with family or friends and picking out delicious apples to eat or put into a warm pie when you get home. Dress up cute and take some pictures and enjoy the fruits and treats around you. Kimmel Orchard and Vineyard have their apple picking season underway, and give you different activities to keep you busy.
Leaf paintings
Leaf painting is one of the easiest fall activities to do. While the leaves are scattered all over the ground, you can pick up one, preferably not a dead leaf, and put it under a white sheet of paper and color on top of it. It leaves a pretty indent on the paper and can be used for decor in the fall season. You can also use different paint colors to cover the leaf and then press it down on a piece of paper to create new designs.
With the weather cooling down it can be challenging to find a way to stay involved in the fall activities. Dress warm; thankfully Nebraska offers many options for fall family fun.