by Christy Nealey, Marketing and Technology Specialist, Department of Human Resources
With the ongoing Pandemic, many events and fall festivals have been canceled. Luckily, there are many ways to enjoy fall in Henrico and the surrounding areas. Here are fifteen ways you and your family can get out and enjoy the crisp autumn air!
Visit the Farmer’s Market- Bryan Park and Dorey Park host outdoor markets every Saturday morning! Take a stroll and grab some fresh goat cheese or vegetables.
Go apple (or peach) picking- Carter Mountain is always a fan favorite and is only about an hour away! There are a few local peach and berry farms too.
Take a hike- The Blue Ridge Mountains offer a lot of picturesque views but if you are looking for less of a commute, check out the Capital Trail. In Henrico County, visit the Four Mile Creek Trailhead or Dorey Park Trailhead to begin your journey on the Virginia Capital Trail!
Visit the Pumpkin Patch- Enjoy the hayrides and pick your own pumpkins at Gallmeyer Farm or Hanover Vegetable Farm. Then, carve or decorate your pumpkins to add festive décor to your home.
Go for a coffee walk- Whether you are all about the PSL, chia tea, or ciders, grab your favorite hot drink from a local shop and go for a walk and enjoy the changing leaves.
Savor cider doughnuts- Henrico’s own Country Style Donuts won the 2020 Best Local Doughnuts Award and have several seasonal flavors to enjoy. Mrs. Yoder’s and First Stop Donuts are also local favorites!
Show your gratitude- It has been a challenging year for everyone. Fall is the time to reflect on thankfulness. Make a list or mail thank you notes to your loved ones.
Plant bulbs for your spring garden- If fall leaves aren’t your favorite, get your garden ready for Spring. Narcissus, tulips, and peonies are beautiful options to plant now to see the colors emerge in a few months.
Enjoy a fall craft- Hand knit a chunky blanket to keep you cozy in the cooler months or make a new door wreath or DIY Halloween costume. Have a fun, family photoshoot and show off your creativity!
Jump into a pile of leaves- What is more fall-like than raking up the yard a little bit and then jumping into the pile and throwing leaves like confetti? Kids will enjoy hours of fun and maybe even a little yard work.
Deck your halls (and your yard) with a little spooky décor- Why wait
The home of Jenn Montrose, Department of Information Technology
until December to add lights to your house? Add some jack-o-lanterns, witches, skeletons, spiderwebs, or some purple and orange lights for a fun festive look.
Enjoy a faux tailgate in your driveway- Most sports are not currently open to the public so make a big pot of chili and invite your friends over for a social distance tailgate in your yard or driveway.
Boo your neighbor- Sneak little treats like cookies or a bottle of wine on your neighbor’s porch and watch them pay it forward!
Watch Halloween TV specials and movies- With all the streaming options available, enjoy a scary movie marathon or any of your fall favorites. Curl up on the couch or project it outside with a bonfire for a perfect fall night.
Enjoy a fall festival- Many festivals have changed to virtual events this year, like the Richmond Folk Festival. However, there are some outdoor fall events that are still happening; like the Sunday Funday for Kids on the lawn at Walkerton Tavern and the Glendale Ruritan Club Trunk or Treat.
Savor cider doughnuts- Henrico’s own Country Style Donuts won the 2020 Best Local Doughnuts Award and have several seasonal flavors to enjoy. Mrs. Yoder’s and First Stop Donuts are also local favorites!