As winter approaches in Minnesota, life can start to feel like a long haul toward the holidays. But Christmas isn't the only thing worth looking forward to. The "-ber" months are right around the corner, and we've got some ideas for squeezing in a little extra fun before the colder months fully set in.

September: The Fall Activities Opening Act

The harvest month. September marks the time that the seasons begin to shift. We feel the first fall chill in the air, and excitement for the colder season picks up. This month is the perfect time to grab a light sweater and stay outside just a little longer.

Our favorite September activities include…

Apple Orchards

September is peak harvest time for apples. Attending an apple orchard is a classic fall activity, and scheduling a visit in September is the best way to pick the perfect batch. Fresh apple pie is an added perk!

Start a Fall Bucket List

September is the perfect time to circle back to those plans you've been putting off all summer. Get together with friends and take a look at all those recipes and DIY crafts you've bookmarked this year. As the year winds down, September is the perfect time to try that new chicken noodle soup and start to decide on your Christmas light plan.

October: Peak Pumpkin Season in Minnesota

In October, the fall pace quickens. Now is the perfect time to admire the beauty of autumn in Minnesota. Halloween might mark the end of this month, but we have a few outdoor activities that top our October list. To make the most of the turning seasons, try these activities out for your October calendar:

Go on a Color Tour

Get outside, take a look at the treeline, and marvel at the beauty of Minnesota's fall colors. The reds and oranges of October leaves hit their peak early in the month. Whether you are hiking, taking a walk, or driving down a winding backroad, a color tour is one of the most memorable fall activities. Some of the best Minnesota spots for fall colors are in Duluth, the Saint Croix River Valley, and parks right here at home in the Twin Cities!

Take a Trip to the Pumpkin Patch

Need we say more? Pumpkin patches and corn mazes are the quintessential autumn activity package. Whether you are weighing your options for carveable pumpkins or contemplating which way you came through the corn maze, a trip to the pumpkin patch never disappoints.

November: Traditions & To-Do Lists

On November 1st, it seems like the holiday season suddenly shifts into full gear. Thanksgiving is approaching, while Christmas and the New Year linger close behind. And let's be honest, every Minnesotan knows winter weather starts in November.

Take some time to plan a few November activities you'll want to make a tradition.

Friendsgiving

While we love to give thanks with our families on Turkey day, Friendsgiving can be an event for some low-stakes fun. Send out a text to your closest friends, grab a pie from the grocery store, and spend some time reflecting on old memories with good friends!

Do a Quick Winter Walkthrough

This one could be a little bit less fun than Friendsgiving… but we promise it's important. While you check off your holiday lists, getting your home winterized is important before the freeze. But don't worry about getting up to the gutters for Christmas lights, Jingle Bulbs handles the full light installation process for homeowners!

December: Pair Hot Cocoa with Holiday Lights

The big month is here! As Christmas season ramps up, there are plenty of ways to sprinkle some extra holiday spirit in your December calendar.

Holiday Markets

There is no better time to get in the Christmas spirit than at the Holiday Market. Sit by the fire and sip hot chocolate, browse local vendor stands, and spend some time thinking about what the holiday season has in store. You might even find the perfect gift for a family member or friend! The big month is here! As Christmas season ramps up, we have some recommendations for ways to sprinkle some extra holiday spirit in your monthly calendar.

Take a Christmas Light Drive

The Twin Cities boasts multiple neighborhoods with stunning Christmas light displays. After you book your Christmas lighting installation with us, you can take a drive and find other examples of our work all over the Twin Cities! Your home and (your whole block) can look its most festive with professional Christmas light installation from Jingle Bulbs!

Light Up Your "-Ber" Months with Jingle Bulbs

There's a reason so many of these activities circle back to spending time with friends and family. The holiday months become a worry-free time of year when you take less time attempting DIY light decor installations and more time perfecting your pumpkin carving skills. At Jingle Bulbs, we have your home covered with our custom installation plans and on-call light replacement. Whatever the "-Ber" months bring you this year, we hope it includes some time outside, a little more cheer, and a home that's ready to shine when December rolls around.