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It’s Fall y’all! And this is my favorite time of year because there are so many fun, unique things to do – plus, the occasional cooler weather Texas teases us with is nice perk, too! You never know what you will get with Texas Fall but what you can count on are a variety of activities and something for every type of person. Every year we create a bucket list for each season we are entering. We love being able to find new activities to try as well as enjoy some old favorites. Read on to see what’s on our ultimate Waco Fall bucket list for 2024.
Quite possibly my favorite activity for Fall is the fair! We are truly lucky here in Waco to have the HOT Fair & Rodeo. You have carnival games, caramel apples, corny dogs and so much more to keep you entertained and feeling those Fall vibes. We also have the State Fair of Texas, just a short drive up I-35. Personally, we love taking a day trip to the State Fair of Texas every Fall; this has become one of our favorite family traditions.
Another amazing, local Fall event is Silobration. Whether you are a native Waco or a visitor, this event is something you can’t miss. The vendors who come to participate are incredible and coupled with the ever present Magnolia Market charm, this event is a fall highlight.
While the Farmer’s Market is an event held year round, there is a certain feeling you get strolling around the market during autumn. This is a great way to enjoy the outdoors and find local, seasonal produce that peaks this time of year. The Waco Downtown Farmers Market and the Woodway Farmers Market are both great choices for your outing!
For locals, and this may go without saying, a Fall staple is tailgating and football games – Sic ‘Em Bears! It’s so fun to gather with other fans, eat delicious tailgating food, have a cold drink and then head in to the game to cheer on your team. Football and Fall are the perfect pair!
If you don’t mind driving to Dallas, you can add a trip to the Dallas Arboretum to your Fall bucket list. The grounds are covered in beautiful works of art made with pumpkins and seasonal flowers. It really is a magical experience and worth the short trek, in my opinion! While you’re already a little further North, I would suggest adding Pumpkin Nights in Arlington to your list! This event is incredible! The carvings, scenes, lights and so much more are so artfully planned it will blow your mind. They have an Austin exhibit as well, if a trip south meets your needs better!
It truly wouldn’t be Fall without a visit to the pumpkin patch. We have so many local patches and quite a few in the Greater Waco area too. Check out our article on pumpkin patches to get info on a few of our favorites!
If you head out to one of the farms for your pumpkin patch outing, you may find an opportunity to try your hand at a corn maze. While this is dependent upon crops and weather, if there is one available, I highly encourage you to make a go at it! It’s a very unique experience and extra fun for those with a competitive spirit!
Once the weather does cool a bit, don’t forget to add a drive in movie to your list. It’s so nostalgic to pull up to a drive-in. During Fall, I recommend enjoying the drive-in from the bed of a truck. Load it up with cozy blankets and pillows, bring hot chocolate or apple cider and you have a perfect Fall evening. The Last Drive-In Picture Show in Gatesville is a great spot to try!
These next two ideas apply only to those who are 21 or older. If that’s you … make sure to add a local brewery and/or winery to your ultimate Fall bucket list! Here in Waco, we have options such as Bare Arms Brewing, Southern Roots Brewing, Waco Ale Company, Country Spring Vineyard, Valley Mills Vineyard or Kissing Tree Vineyards. Local breweries often brew a limited release Oktoberfest or pumpkin option and your wineries are going to help pair all of your fall treats and meals with the perfect wine.
Last but certainly not least, I have at home options for your Fall bucket list. Bonfires and s’mores are iconic Fall activities. No space for a bonfire? There are quite a few options on Amazon for flameless electric indoor s’mores. If you aren’t a fan of an open flame, try getting the kids to help you bake a pumpkin flavored dessert. I have so much fun trying new pumpkin baking recipes. So far this year I’ve already done pumpkin bread and have pumpkin cream cheese muffins planned for my next go. Feel free to ask for recipes in the comments. If you are more of a savory food person, throw a chili bar party! Make a big pot of chili, line up tons of toppings get paper bowls and spoons for easy cleanup and be ready for a delicious get together.
15 Fall Bucket List To-Do’s
- HOT Fair & Rodeo
- State Fair of Texas
- Silobration
- Deck the Halls
- Farmer’s Market
- Tailgating & Football Games
- Dallas Arboretum
- Pumpkin Nights
- Pumpkin Patch
- Corn Maze
- Drive In Movie
- Brewery
- Winery
- Bonfire & S’mores
- Pumpkin Dessert Baking
- Chili Bar Party
Do you have other Fall Bucket List ideas not mentioned here? Share your ideas in the comments and tag @WacoMoms on social media with photos of you enjoying some activities as we enter this new season!
