7 COVID friendly fall actvities

Mariam Hanna, Editor-in-chief

A crisp breeze blows by, and with it the smell of warm cider and pumpkin pie. Autumn is here. Another sign? The insane traffic on Dequindre & Avon as locals head to Yates Cider Mill for some mouth-watering cider and cinnamon sugar donuts. 

This particular fall season is taking place amidst another season called The Pandemic. Working around COVID-19 brings about foreign challenges; with safety precautions in place, it may seem difficult to find new ways to enjoy the season. But rest assured, the Talon has seven Coronavirus-friendly fall activities that people of all ages can partake in to get in the fall spirit!

1. Go apple picking

This is the perfect weather for apple picking! It’s not too hot, and as long as you dress appropriately and maybe bring along a coat, it’s not too cold. Blakes Cider Mill, Westview Orchard, and Long Family Orchard and great options. Some apple favorites are honeycrisp and empire, so keep an eye out for those.

2.  Take scenic fall pics

Autumn is known for its beauty, with vibrant colored leaves everywhere and the joy of the holiday season near. Take advantage of this by bringing along a friend and finding a scenic place to snap a few fall pics. George George Memorial Park, Kensington Metropark, and Cranbrook Gardens are some perfect local options.

3. Carve or paint pumpkins

This one is a classic- and one you can do from the safety of your own home without worrying about COVID-19. Carve some scary faces into your pumpkins or paint a creative image on it, either way, it is a great way to get into the fall spirit. 

4. Make some fall treats

One of the best parts of this season is the yummy food associated with it. If you find yourself bored or craving some sugar, take a trip to your kitchen and use those culinary skills to bake an apple pie, pumpkin pie, or snickerdoodles. Need some energy? Try out a homemade pumpkin spice latte. 

5. “Boo” your neighbor

This is one you may remember from your childhood, so tilt your head up and to the side, and let’s begin this flashback. All you have to do is pack some pieces of candy into a plastic bag, print off a “you’ve been booed!” sheet, and leave them at your neighbors’ doors. For some extra fun, ring in their doorbells and hide behind a bush or car to watch their reactions. 

6. Have a Disney Halloween marathon

Twitches, Girl vs. Monster, Halloweentown, and Mom’s Got a Date with a Vampire are phenomenal movies to watch while sipping on some hot cocoa and covered in blankets on your sofa. Don’t forget about all the “Monstober” Disney TV show specials that have aired in the past!

7. Go on a haunted hayride

This one for those who are more comfortable being around groups of people. If you fall into this category, make sure you are wearing a mask and staying distanced from everyone else, and find a local haunted hayride! Blakes cider mill in Armada is an option, as well as Pasttense After Dark in Lapeer. You may have to purchase tickets ahead of time because of limited capacity due to COVID-19.