10 Fall Activities You Can do in Your Backyard

As the leaves begin to change and the air turns crisp, there's no better time to transform your backyard into a fall wonderland. Whether you're planning on hosting a backyard soiree this season or simply need an excuse to take in the cooler weather, these activitises will help you make the most of autumn right in your own outdoor space.

1. Apple Bobbing

Fill a large tub with water and add fresh apples (or whatever else you want to bob for, i.e. flat tire) for this classic fall game. Participants try to grab apples with their teeth without using their hands. Or if you are looking for something slightly more classy, try this with a fishing rod or a makeshift clasp. It's a fun, messy activity that is sure to get everyone chucklings.

2. Preserve Leaves

You probably already have a few leaves scattered around your yard. Why not take some of those pretty leaves and make a bookmark? Or a custom card? Collect fall leaves from your backyard and preserve them using wax paper and an iron, or press them between heavy books. This is a great activity for all ages, and its a great way to stop and take in all those delicious fall colors.

3. DIY Decorations

Whether you are looking to make something spooky or classy there is plenty inspiration and materials lying in wait. If you’ve got some black clothes you’re not wearing and a few plastic/paper bags to get rid of you could make a witch. Or perhaps wreaths are more your thing? Gather some of those loose leaves and branches, we’re gonna need the glue gun!

4. Backyard Scavenger Hunt

Create a fall-themed scavenger hunt using items found naturally in your backyard. Make a list of things like "a red leaf," "a pinecone," "something that makes a crunching sound," or "a smooth rock." This activity gets everyone exploring and appreciating the natural beauty around them. You can make it competitive with teams or just a fun exploration for the whole family. Bonus points for finding the most creative items!

5. Cozy Movie Night

Set up a projector and screen in your backyard for the ultimate fall movie experience. Bundle up with warm blankets, serve hot cocoa and popcorn, and enjoy classic fall films under the stars. The crisp air makes it even more magical. Or, if you’d rather skip the setup, Courtyard Experiences can bring the whole cozy outdoor cinema experience right to you.

6. Pumpkin Carving Contest

Jack-o-lantern season is upon us, meaning gourds galore. Whether you are an uber crafty queen or just in it for the vibes, this is a classic fall activity. It’s even better outside, mainly so the squirrels can clean up the mess!

7. Potato Sack Race

Organize classic backyard games like potato sack races, three-legged races, or tug-of-war. These timeless activities bring out the competitive spirit and create lasting memories for participants of all ages. Not to mention it gets the blood flowing as the temperatures cool.

8. Toss a Football

It is indeed football season and nothing beats getting a perfect spiral even if it goes less than 10 yards. A great way to enjoy the weather and pre-game before the big game? Either way, go Broncos!

9. Leaf Piles

You probably are already doing or avoiding doing the yard work of scraping all the leaves. Might as well make it fun! Nothing is more satisfying than the crunch of some dry leaves.

10. Make and Hang Birdhouses

Build and decorate birdhouses as a family project, then hang them around your backyard. This activity helps local wildlife while creating a beautiful addition to your outdoor space.