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Fall is here, and before you get buried in those thick winter jackets and wonder why you left Africa’s warm sun, it’s time to make the most of this cozy, colorful season
You’re sitting in your apartment, staring out the window, watching the leaves fall. The air is crisp, your hoodie is on, and all of a sudden, it hits you: winter is coming. You turn to your partner and think, “What on earth are we going to do before the cold creeps in?” You’re Africans in the diaspora, still adjusting to the seasons, and fall, with all its colors, pumpkins, and chilly vibes, is a world of new possibilities.
Well, don’t just sit there! Fall is here, and I’m going to show you how to squeeze every last drop of joy out of this magical season before you’re forced into winter hibernation. Whether you’re in the U.S., the U.K., or Canada, these activities will make you feel like you’ve mastered fall like a pro—and trust me, your partner will thank you!
1. Pumpkin Patch Visits – Like Owning a Farm Without the Hard Work
Okay, hear me out. Pumpkin patches aren’t just for little kids and their tired parents; it’s like a fall owambe, but instead of jollof and dancing, it’s pumpkins and cute photo ops. You and your partner can walk through rows of pumpkins, picking out one that screams, “Take me home!”
Propose a mini competition—who can carve the best pumpkin? It’s like prepping a meal together, but this time you’re creating art. Then, you can roast the seeds for a snack or bake a pumpkin pie—kind of like making puff-puff, except it’s sweet and all-American. And yes, the Instagram posts you’ll get from this? Fire.
If you’re near a big city like Toronto or London, you’ll likely find a patch with food stalls selling African treats—perfect for when you’re craving some spicy suya to heat things up.
2. Leaf Peeping – More Than Just Looking at Leaves
I know, it sounds ridiculous—people pay money just to drive or walk around looking at leaves. But listen, the way fall colors pop is something straight out of a Nollywood movie. You and your partner could grab a coffee, or if you’re more authentic, bring along some chapman in a thermos, and walk through a park covered in vibrant red, orange, and yellow leaves.
You’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a painting, or better yet, a romantic scene in one of those viral Afrobeat music videos. Plus, it’s basically a free date, and who doesn’t love that?
If you’re in a place like New York or Birmingham, hit up Central Park or Cannock Chase—these are prime spots for the best fall colors. Trust me, your senses will thank you.
3. Cozy Bonfires – Think of It as Your Personal Homecoming
Remember those nights back home, sitting around the fire, swapping stories under the stars? Bonfires in the diaspora are the same, except now you get to wear cozy sweaters and roast marshmallows (or, more realistically, grill some suya).
Wrap yourself and your partner in warm blankets, light up a bonfire in your backyard or local park (most allow it, so check first), and settle in for some real talk. Swap stories of growing up in Ghana, Nigeria, or South Africa—nostalgia is guaranteed, and so is a stronger bond. And don’t forget to make s’mores—it’s like the fall version of chin chin, but with marshmallows and chocolate.
In places like Calgary or Minnesota, where it gets cold fast, check for community bonfire events, or head to the outskirts where you can join group bonfires (and sneak in your favorite African snacks).
4. Apple Picking – Your Fall Market Run
Here’s a surprising one: Apple picking is fall’s version of a Saturday market run. Except here, you’re picking apples instead of vegetables, and you get to keep everything you pick. Grab a basket and stroll through the apple orchards, taking your time to find the juiciest ones. You can literally taste the season in every bite.
Back home, we’re used to pawpaw and mango, but trust me, biting into a fresh fall apple is its own kind of magic. Afterward, you can bake an apple pie together—it’s kind of like making bofrot but much sweeter and with a fun twist.
If you’re in Washington D.C. or Kent, England, there are local orchards where you can pick apples, sip hot cider, and enjoy some seasonal snacks (and if you’re lucky, you might find an African fusion stall).
5. Couple’s Photoshoot – Fall Aesthetic on Lock
If your phone isn’t full of fall couple selfies, are you even in a relationship? Autumn gives you the perfect backdrop for a photoshoot that’ll have everyone back home asking, “What’s going on in your life?!” Head to a park where the leaves have fallen, wear matching fall colors (think oranges, reds, and browns), and strike your best poses.
Toss leaves in the air like you’re starring in a romantic movie, or just let the natural beauty of the season do the talking. Bonus points if you can find a photographer friend—guaranteed to make your couple’s photos go viral on Facebook or WhatsApp.
In places like Vancouver or Edinburgh, the fall colors are absolutely jaw-dropping, and local parks like Stanley Park or Princes Street Gardens are ideal for capturing the perfect couple’s aesthetic.
6. Corn Maze Adventures – Get Lost (In Love, Too)
Alright, this one’s for the couples who love a little adventure. A corn maze is exactly what it sounds like—a giant maze made of corn stalks, and your job is to find your way out. It’s the perfect bonding activity because it requires teamwork and patience.
Think of it as the fall version of navigating a chaotic market back home—except this time, instead of trying to haggle, you’re figuring out how to get through the maze without arguing too much. And when you do make it out, victory has never tasted so sweet.
If you’re in the U.S., states like Pennsylvania or Illinois are known for their massive corn mazes. In the U.K., check out rural areas like Sussex for some of the best maze fun.
7. Fall Festivals – Where African Meets Autumn
If there’s one thing we love, it’s a good festival. Fall festivals are like a mashup of traditional fairs and African market days. You’ll find booths selling everything from local goods to international treats. And if you’re lucky, there’ll be a stall with African delicacies like plantains, suya, or puff-puff, so you won’t feel too far from home.
Grab your partner’s hand, explore the different stands, try new foods, and enjoy the live music (and who knows, maybe some Afrobeats will slip in among the country tunes).
Specific Detail: Major cities like Atlanta or Toronto host multicultural fall festivals where African food, art, and music are proudly on display. If you haven’t checked these out yet, what are you waiting for?
8. Movie Nights In – Netflix & Chill, But Make It Fall
When the evenings get chilly, it’s time to stay indoors. Set up a cozy movie night with blankets, hot cocoa, and fall snacks. Watch a mix of African classics and trending fall-themed movies—Hallmark films are notorious for their fall romances, and you can pair them with a Nollywood drama for balance.
Make it fun by lighting a fall-scented candle (yes, it’s a thing) and bask in the sweet aroma while watching your favorite films. It’s the perfect end to a day of exploring.
If you’re in Lagos diaspora hotspots like Maryland or Essex, head to your local Afrocentric market first for snacks before binge-watching.
9. Cooking Fall Dishes – Spice Things Up
Sure, jollof is life, but fall cooking introduces you to a whole new world of flavors. Try out a few fall recipes like spiced pumpkin soup or apple crumble (imagine puff-puff but fruitier). Cooking together can be a bonding experience—plus, you’ll both feel like top chefs when you sit down to eat.
The smell of cinnamon, nutmeg, and apples will fill your home, creating that cozy fall atmosphere that’ll make you forget all about the impending cold.
Head to specialty stores in cities like London or Chicago for African spices and blend them into fall dishes for that home-meets-autumn fusion.
10. Hot Air Balloon Rides – The Sky’s the Limit
This one’s for the adventurous types. Picture you and your partner floating high above the autumn landscape, taking in views of the changing leaves and golden fields below. It’s a one-of-a-kind experience that’ll leave you both breathless (and not just because of the height).
Plus, the photos from a hot air balloon ride? They’ll make your friends back home green with envy. It’s a little pricey, but as they say—you only live once.
Look for balloon rides near places like Napa Valley in California or the rolling hills of Tuscany, Italy—both known for their stunning fall colors.
Conclusion
So there you have it—ten specific fall activities guaranteed to warm your hearts (and your hands) before winter arrives. Whether you’re carving pumpkins, getting lost in a corn maze, or watching the leaves turn, there’s no shortage of things to do as a couple. Before the winter cold sneaks in, grab your partner and start checking off.
READ: 10 Weekend Date Night Ideas for Busy Parents
For busy parents, finding quality time to nurture your relationship can be a challenge. Juggling work, school runs, household chores and kids’ activities often feels like there’s no time left for just the two of you. Click here.
