Pumpkins, Candlelight & Autumn Magic: My 10 Favorite To-Dos for Fall

ürbis, Kerzenschein & Herbstzauber: Meine 10 liebsten To-Dos für den Herbst
This blog contains affiliate links (marked with *). If you shop products via those links, I may get a small provision which helps me to maintain my blog. Of course the price doesn’t change. Items marked with c/o were given to me as free test samples.

Pumpkin carving, baking & much more: magical fall to-dos

The mornings are filled with fog, the days turn rainy and cool, and the nights are already crisp. Summer has officially said goodbye, and autumn is here to stay. That means pumpkin carving, spotting the first colorful leaves, and flying kites are back on my to-do list.

This year, I’ll admit, I’ve felt a little nostalgic for summer. Normally, I can’t wait for fall to arrive, but right now I’m easing myself into the mood with a cozy autumn mood board, apple-cinnamon tea, and even pumpkin spice banana bread (yes, it’s as good as it sounds!).

My Mood Board for a Magical Fall

Crunching leaves, warm colors, and plenty of pumpkins set the tone. Fall inspires me like no other season—it has such a wonderfully cozy atmosphere.

My mood board for autumn - natural tones, pumpkins and cozy outfits

My To-Do List for an Unforgettable Autumn

Reading, baking, pumpkin carving—autumn can be really cozy and actually not so bad. With the right activities, it becomes even more enjoyable.

1. Go for a Walk in Crunchy Leaves

RetroCat strolling through the colorful autumn leaves in a stylish retro outfit<br>

Step outside and enjoy nature—nothing feels more magical than walking through golden leaves. Don’t forget to collect a few colorful treasures like chestnuts or acorns. The crisp air and earthy scent of moss are instantly grounding. Bonus: kids absolutely love it, too. Tip: Bring a thermos of hot tea or coffee to warm up along the way.


2. Pumpkin Fun: Carving & Decorating

Beautifully carved Halloween pumpkins for fall

A pumpkin, a knife, and a tealight—that’s all you need for a simple fall DIY. Whether spooky for Halloween or charming for indoors, pumpkins always bring joy. And afterward? Enjoy a bowl of pumpkin soup—mmm!


3. Fall to-Dos: Cozy Reading Time with Tea & Candlelight

An autumnally decorated table with a teapot and pumpkins - perfect for a reading evening<br>

A good book, a steaming cup of tea, and flickering candles—that’s pure autumn magic. Mystery, romance, or classics—this is the season to snuggle up and escape into a story.

Book Tip for Autumn

A Dark and Secret Magic—a hauntingly beautiful read for stormy autumn evenings. The moody atmosphere pairs perfectly with rain against the windows.


4. Capture Fall Colors with a Photo Challenge

Orange, red, gold, brown—autumn is a painter’s palette! Grab your camera or phone and head outdoors to capture the beauty. I’ve promised myself to spend more time behind the lens this season, soaking up every golden moment.


5. DIY Halloween Decorations


Stylish or spooky—homemade Halloween decor adds a personal touch. For inspiration, check out Christine McConnell’s YouTube channel—her DIY projects are next-level!


6. Warm & Natural Fall Decorations

Stylish autumn decorations made from natural materials

Fall isn’t just about Halloween. Starting in September, I decorate with natural treasures: chestnuts, acorns, pinecones, branches, and colorful leaves. Add a few candles, fairy lights, and cozy pillows, and your home will instantly feel autumn-ready.

*Affiliate links


7. Baking with Apples & Cinnamon

RetroCat's homemade apple crumble with cinnamon and nuts

Apple crumble, nut cake, pumpkin muffins—the smell of baking makes autumn feel extra cozy.


8. Fall Fashion Layering

RetroCat in a cozy, stylish knit dress for autumn

Think cozy knit sweaters, scarves, earthy coats, and of course, boots. Fall fashion is all about layering for warmth and style.

My personal favorite? Knitted dresses—comfy, warm, and effortlessly chic.

*Affiliate links


9. Cozy Fall Nights with TV Shows

A cup of tea on the couch and a cozy autumn series in the background

A cup of tea, soft blankets, candlelight, and the perfect series—this is my ideal autumn evening. My go-to shows for fall include:

  • Outlander (especially season 1)
  • All Creatures Great and Small
  • Charmed (my teenage favorite!)
  • Gilmore Girls (I just discovered it this year—what a gem!)
  • Downton Abbey

Find even more feel-good shows in my movies & series category.


10. Fall to-Dos: Fly a Kite with the Whole Family

Autumn mood board: Flying a kite

When the autumn winds pick up and the leaves swirl, it’s the perfect time to fly a kite. I loved it as a child, and now I share that joy with my daughter. Running across a field, feeling the wind, and watching the kite soar—it’s pure magic for kids and adults alike.

*Affiliate links


Final Thoughts: A magical Season

Autumn offers countless little joys—indoors and outdoors. Whether creative, cozy, active, or relaxing, this season has something for everyone. I hope this list inspires you to make your fall truly magical—offline, in the real world. Enjoy collecting, crafting, laughing, slowing down, and savoring every autumn moment.

More Autumn Inspiration:


Save this post on Pinterest for later!

The ultimate autumn to-do list for the whole family

></div>“/>
<div class=

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *