There is nothing more refreshing than the change of seasons, so as summer turns to fall, we are eager to be out and about town in the crisp fall air. School is back in session and fall sports have started but the pumpkin patches are calling, the apples are prime for picking, and fall festivals abound in every neighborhood.
As we gear up for everything-pumpkin, let’s take a look at some annual favorite spots to haunt (pun intended!) and some new suggestions for autumn activities with the family.
Annual Autumn Favorites
If you are looking for everything festive in anticipation of picking the perfect pumpkin and prepping for Halloween, Linvilla Orchards is the place to go. If you have been there before then you know; if it is your first time, there is a guide for everything. First stop, Pumpkinland filled with pumpkins of all shapes and sizes. Continuing with the theme of picking your own (PYO), it is prime apple season with several varieties to choose from. If PYO isn’t your style, stroll through the farmer’s market for apples already bundled, fresh pressed cider, homemade baked goods, or colorful mums to decorate your home.
There is plenty to keep the kids occupied. Advance tickets can be purchased for Harvest Hayrides, corn and hay bale mazes, apple blasters, and train and pony rides. Additionally, there are barnyard animals and a huge Playland Playground for the kids to safely sow their own oats. If that isn’t enough to keep a family busy, there are special Hayrides to the Witch’s House and Autumn Moon Hayrides, both scheduled in the evening and both require pre-purchased tickets.
Another option for PYO is at Indian Orchards Farms where once again apples are the main feature of the season. On weekends there are hayrides available, but guests must stop by the farm stand to check-in and get the layout of what produce is where on the farm. Of course, the perennial favorite pumpkins are also available for prime selection. The farm stand is fully stocked with in-season produce in case you want to grab and go.
For the spookier side of the season, families might want to head to the Bates Motel, often referred to as the “Best Haunted House in America.” The trilogy of scariness includes the Bates Motel, the Haunted Hayride, and the Revenge of the Scarecrows Haunted Trail. Pre-purchased tickets are highly recommended for these timed entry events. Recommended for children 8 years and older.
The fall season would not be complete without participating in the annual Bark in the Park sponsored by Providence Animal Center. The date for this year’s event to be held in Rose Tree Media Park is October 21, highlighted by a Fall Festival. Dog friendly dogs are welcome to participate in the day full of music, food, and fun, and in the 5K or 1-mile friendly walk.
Fall Festivals Abound
Fall Festivals are in full gear, and to kick off the season, families can head over to Newlin Grist Mill for their Fall Harvest Festival on October 7. This year’s theme is “Food Traditions Past and Present” where families can watch cooking and trades brought to life from the 18th century. In case all that cooking makes you hungry, regular food trucks will be on hand.
Also on October 7, the 28th annual Haverford Township Day will take place in the heart of Havertown with a slate of activities starting in the morning and running until 4:00 PM. This event offers something for everyone in the family starting with a 5k run, showcasing live music all day at various stages, carnival type activities for kids, a flea and craft market, plus a parade beginning at 10:30 AM. Stop by to join the fun!
The following weekend head back to Havertown for another celebration, Haverford First Fest Music Festival on October 14. Join your friends and neighbors at this family-centric event celebrating First Responders. The afternoon will be filled with music, food, and fun for everyone, and admission is free.
Family Friendly Outings and Adventures
What better way to embrace fall than an evening spent strolling the grounds at the Tyler Arboretum following by a Fall Fireside event complete with s’mores. The outing also includes an art show in the barn, learning some history of the arboretum, food trucks and Dock Street Brewing, lawn games and story time for the kids. A truly magical evening.
Are you familiar with the train car you always drive by on West Chester Pike? Well, it turns out it is in fact the Newtown Square Railroad Museum, which I just learned. Fascinating! On October 7, the museum will be celebrating Community Day and is inviting all neighbors to attend. This charming museum boasts several different historic train cars and is open Saturdays from June through September.
For the artist in all of us, parents can take their kids to Busy Bee Pottery & Arts Studio on October 7 at 10:00 AM where they can participate in Paint and Storytime: Spooky House Plate. The wee ones from 18 months to 5 years can participate by using their own handprint to create the plate. Interested participants need to purchase tickets in advance. Truth be told, adults can go back in the evening for a fun BYOB event called Boos, Booze, and Bingo. Just sayin’…
For another opportunity to keep it in Delco, bring your kids to the first annual Spooky on State! Trunk or Treat on October 14 from 4 – 7:00 PM. This first of its kind event will include trick or tricking, costume contests, car decorating contest, music, and Boos and Brews for adults. There is no better way to celebrate Halloween than on State Street!
The fun never ends in Delco, so keep it moving while you are out and about enjoying one or more of these fantastic fall events.