As the weather cools off and summer comes to a close, it’s finally time to order some pumpkin spice lattes and cue up Gilmore Girls on Netflix. These fall traditions are a must every year, but it’s always possible to add more seasonal activities to your to-do list. From going on a wine tasting adventure or carving pumpkins at a hot spot just outside Toronto, there is lots you can do to have fun this fall. Here are our recommendations to keep you cozy and entertained during sweater weather.

Painting and Sipping at Pinot’s Palette

Have a drink while confecting your next work of art at Pinot’s Palette, a studio where you can drop-in and take your time. Bring your painting ideas to life in a stress-free environment, where you can pair your experience with a wine or a draft beer. Pamper your creative spirit by getting a ticket to a workshop session, where you’ll automatically get access to a small canvas and the supplies you need for your next painting venture. More info.

 

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Pumpkin Carving and Decorating at Pumpkinville

Pumpkin carving is a staple fall tradition and Pumpkinville is THE place to ring in the Halloween season. On top of seeing larger-than-life pumpkin sculptures or participating in the trick-or-treat walks, you can carve and decorate your own pumpkin to take home. This family-friendly event captures the magic of autumn, with spooky-themed activities as well as several Instagram-worthy photo ops.  More info.

Open Mic Nights at The Harmony Café

Every voice finds its stage on Wednesday nights at The Harmony Café. This laid-back coffee shop offers customers the opportunity to belt out their own songs or favourite tunes in a cozy, judgement-free atmosphere. If you have something to sing, to say, or to play, this is the place to go for an eventful night of music and tasty food options. More info.

 

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Book Trivia Nights in Liberty Village

Wearing your wool sweater and reading a page-turning novel sounds like a plan when the weather gets chilly. Yet, you can always do that and participate in trivia nights with other book lovers. The Book Girls Toronto often hosts meet-ups that’ll put your knowledge to the test and allow you to build community with other women with similar reading interests. Two events have already been scheduled for the coming months, one dedicated to Emily Henry romances and the other to the Twilight saga. More info.

Wine Tasting at Applewood Farm Winery

There’s nothing quite like a wine tasting experience when the seasons change. Applewood Farm Winery has produced award-winning fruit wines and ciders for over 25 years, and you can try out their drinks without having to go too far from the city. Throughout the months of September and October, the farm will host a variety of activities where you can sip and either eat pizza fresh out of the oven or go on a corn maze adventure. More info.

 

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Board Game Nights and Puzzle Competitions at Snakes & Lattes

If you are on the lookout for more indoor activities that cater to the whole family, Snakes & Lattes is the place for you. Not only can you choose from a catalogue featuring 1,000 board game options to play with friends and family members, but you can also indulge in delicious snacks and cocktails. This social playground offers unlimited plays and enough space to host larger gatherings. Snakes & Lattes also host board game designer nights where you can test out games before anyone else. They also organize puzzle competitions where you and your friend could get the chance to win a prize. More info.

Improv, Writing & More at The Second City

Make this fall season extra special by honing your comedic chops or furthering your playwriting abilities at The Second City. Through stand-up storytelling workshops and DIY sketches, students get hands-on experience in a light-hearted environment. This is a place where you can improve your public speaking skills, get the training you need to elevate your acting performances, and build community. More info.

Ghost Tours at the Harbourfront

Who said that cruising through Lake Ontario can’t be a thrilling ride? Toronto’s Haunted Harbour Ghost Tours are 90-minute immersive boat trips, where you’ll listen to stories that’ll instantly make your arms form goosebumps. Come face-to-face with the mysterious Gibraltar Point Lighthouse and prepare to listen to chilling tales of ghost ships, shipwrecks, and sinister creatures lurking just below the surface. More info.

Embroidery, Mending, and Sewing at Ed’s Mercantile

This family-owned vintage boutique offers a variety of fibre art-based workshops that will give you a good foundation for embroidery, knitting, and crocheting. During the fall season, Ed’s Mercantile will host DIY magic jar and tarot card design workshops, and participating in them will definitely set the tone for spooky season. Develop your craftsmanship in a friendly environment, where some of the drop-in sessions are pay-what-you-can. More info.

 

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Pottery and Ceramics at The Danforth Art Studio

Whether you are looking to finally put your hands on a clay wheel or would like to learn the basics of pottery making, The Danforth Art Studio offers workshops and team-building events that cater to both adults and kids. The studio’s instructor-led workshops for September include handmade bowls (ideal for having soup when it gets chilly) and cute cat vases. More info.