Despite Starbuck's early release of the infamous PSL and locals hanging up their white garb after Labor Day, this weekend, September 22 to be more precise, marks the official kickoff to the fall season. While the weather may still have some catching up to do, there are still plenty of ways to celebrate the start of autumn. So grab your to-do list because we have a few things you'll want to try or taste before winter bears its head. Without further ado, here's your 2018 “Finally Fall” Checklist.
Drink In Oktoberfest
The Metroplex is full of Oktoberfest festivals, but Southlake's weekend jamboree is definitely our favorite. From October 5 to 7, head out to Southlake Town Square to take part in Oktoberfest 2018. The free event will be full of great food, entertainment and lots of festive drinks. Come out to see Le Freak headline on Friday night or compete in the Stein Hoisting contest. And you can’t forget about the wiener dog races. No matter how you do Oktoberfest, it’s a citywide celebration you won’t want to miss out on.
Actually Go Apple Picking
Don't just talk about this fun fall activity. Make apple picking a reality by heading out to the Henrietta Creek Orchard in Roanoke this season. The family-owned business welcomes groups of all kinds including school trips, garden clubs and retirement communities. So join in on the fun by wondering through their long lines of hybrid dwarf apple trees and peach trees – they have more than 700 on their property. You can also pick up a few goods, like their fruit butters, honeys and preserves in their Apple House, so it’s easy to bring home a treat that keeps the fall fun going all season long.
Embrace Halloween
Get your fill of tricks and treats this year by going all out for Halloween. That can mean decorating your home inside out with posh but scary décor or making your kids costumes stand out. With so many local events hosting costume contests, this could be the year you take home a prize for your hard work.
Stop By A Pumpkin Patch
It's now socially acceptable to round up a few pumpkins at a local pumpkin farm or patch. So head out to Hall's Pumpkin Farm and Corn Maze, opening September 28th for the season, or The Flower Mound Pumpkin Patch, opening October 1, to get in your family-friendly pumpkin farm. Both venues will offer refreshments, photo opportunities and hundreds of pumpkins to choose from. Be sure to pick up some baked goods from Jan Balekain if you head out to the Flower Mound location. And the hot apple cider is a must from Hall’s – even if it’s still scorching outside.
Get Outside
As the weather starts to cool, it's the perfect time to unplug and get outside. Whether that means walking the trails at Lake Grapevine or visiting one of the city's beautiful parks, it's time to take advantage of the area we call home. It's a great way to slow down with your kids and soak up some quality time before the holiday season takes over.
Check Out A Pumpkin Festival
One way to load up on everything autumn is by stopping by Calloway's annual Pumpkin Fest on Saturday, September 29. The Southlake nursery will be breaking out the bales of hay, scarecrows and, of course pumpkins, to celebrate the season. Come out to enjoy free family-friendly activities, pansy planting, pumpkin patch photos, gift card giveaways and much more. It’s set to be a gourd-geous day of fun.