Julia Bansal

Eating donuts, apples, and drinking apple cider from the Dexter Cider Mill on a fall afternoon.

Fall brings a relaxing charm that invites us to slow down and savor the season. The air is crisp and fresh, with a gentle chill that makes the warmth of a cozy sweater or a soft blanket feel especially comforting. 

Inside, the comforting scent of baked goods—like cinnamon rolls or pumpkin muffins—fills the air, mingling with the aroma of spiced cider. Soft lighting creates a welcoming atmosphere, perfect for relaxing with a good drink or catching up on your favorite shows. 

Here’s how to make the most of this cozy time of year, from enjoying classic films and seasonal treats to finding the perfect music to feel the autumn vibe.

Whether you’re looking for heartwarming dramas or atmospheric mysteries, these picks will help you cozy up and enjoy the Fall vibes: 

• Gilmore Girls: 
  • A heartwarming series that captures the charm of small-town life and the special bond between a mother and daughter
• Coraline: 
  • This dark fantasy film blends whimsy and spookiness, making it a great choice for when the days get shorter and the nights longer.
• Twilight:
  • The vampire romance saga is an iconic Fall favorite, with its moody atmosphere and intriguing storyline that aligns well with the crisp autumn air.
• Twin Peaks:
  • Known for its mysterious and eerie vibe, this cult classic offers a blend of drama and suspense.
• Juno:
  •  A touching and offbeat coming-of-age film, Juno offers a mix of humor and heart, making it a feel-good choice for a movie night.
• Little Women: 
  • This timeless story of sisterhood and resilience perfectly offers warmth and nostalgia as the weather turns cooler.
• The Craft: 
  • A classic teen supernatural drama that adds a touch of magic and mystery, ideal for those who enjoy a bit of Halloween-inspired intrigue.
• Dead Poets Society: 
  • With its inspirational themes and evocative setting, this film is a powerful reminder of the importance of following one’s passions.
• Notting Hill: 
  • This charming romantic comedy is a delightful escape, with its cozy London setting providing a warm contrast to the chill of autumn.
• The Devil Wears Prada: 
  • A stylish and entertaining film that’s perfect for a Fall binge, offering a glimpse into the glamorous world of fashion.
• Fantastic Mr. Fox: 
  • This stop-motion animated film combines quirky humor and inventive storytelling, making it a fun and visually engaging option for the season.

These songs capture the mellow, reflective mood of fall, paired with a quiet evening or a long autumn walk. Here are a few tracks to set the tone for fall:

• There She Goes (The La’s): 
  • This light, breezy track is perfect for a laid-back autumn day, giving you that carefree feeling as you watch the leaves Fall.
• Duvet (Boa): 
  • Dreamy and atmospheric, this song is great for those quiet, introspective moments when you just want to relax and enjoy the season.
• It’s Too Late (Carole King):
  •  With its nostalgic feel, this classic track reflects the bittersweet nature of autumn and those cozy, reflective days.
• Fade Into You (Mazzy Star): 
  • This hauntingly beautiful song is ideal for cool, calm evenings, making you want to sit back and enjoy the peacefulness.
• 1979 (Smashing Pumpkins): 
  • The laid-back vibe of this song matches the slower pace of autumn, making it perfect for a relaxing Fall afternoon.
• There Is a Light That Never Goes Out (The Smiths): 
  • A mix of melancholy and hope, this song fits right in with Fall’s more reflective mood.
• Kiss Me (Sixpence None The Richer): 
  • Warm and romantic, this song feels just like being wrapped in a blanket on a cool autumn night.
• Linger (The Cranberries): 
  • This nostalgic, soothing track is perfect for a quiet Fall day when you’re reminiscing or just enjoying the moment.
• Don’t Know Why (Norah Jones): 
  • With its mellow jazz sound, this song is ideal for slow, cozy mornings or afternoons spent with a hot drink.
• Life Goes On (The Sundays): 
  • Soft and reflective, this track captures the gentle transitions of Fall and makes for great background music during your autumn moments.
• Spooky (Dusty Springfield): 
  • Fun and playful, this song adds a little Halloween spirit to your Fall playlist.
• You’re Not The Only One I Know (The Sundays): 
  • With its wistful tone, this song captures Fall’s contemplative side, perfect for when you’re in a reflective mood.

Of course, no fall day is complete without some seasonal snacks and drinks. Whether you’re craving something sweet or spiced, these treats capture the flavors of autumn.

• Caramel apples: 
  • You can usually find these at local farmers’ markets or grocery stores in the Fall, or make them at home with just apples, caramel, and a few toppings.
• Cinnamon rolls: 
  • Freshly baked at local bakeries, or even better, you can make them yourself—here’s a link to the recipe I swear by!
• Spice cake: 
  • This is an easy bake at home using any simple spice cake mix or recipe, but many cafes and bakeries offer it during Fall as well.
• Apple cider: 
  • Often sold at local farms, cider mills, and grocery stores. You can also make a simple spiced version at home by heating store-bought cider with cinnamon and cloves.
• Pumpkin spice latte: 
  • A Fall classic at Starbucks and many other coffee shops. You can make a DIY version at home using pumpkin puree, pumpkin spice, and coffee.
• Cinnamon sugar donuts: 
  • These are usually found at Fall festivals, farmers’ markets, or donut shops. They’re easy to make at home with a basic donut recipe and cinnamon-sugar topping.
• Ginger snaps: 
  • You can pick these up at most grocery stores, or bake a batch at home if you’re in the mood for something crunchy and spicy.
• Maple donuts:
  • Local bakeries and donut shops are your best bet for these, but you can also try making them from scratch if you’re feeling adventurous.
• Pumpkin spice muffins:
  • Easily found at coffee shops or bakeries in the Fall, and a quick homemade version is as simple as adding pumpkin puree to a basic muffin recipe.
• Chai latte: 
  • Starbucks and most cafes have this on the menu, but you can also brew chai tea at home and add steamed milk for that perfect spiced drink.

Fall offers a brief chance to unwind and appreciate the little things, so make the most of it. Savor the flavors, enjoy the crisp air, and take in the scenery while it lasts. Each autumn moment is a reminder to pause before the busyness of winter sets in.