I’ve always said that fall is the reason I live in New England. While the season is usually too short-lived for my liking, it’s a beautiful season full of amazing sights, tastes and smells. Get a jump start on your fall this month with some of my favorite frugal fun ideas:

Make a Pumpkin Spice Latte

The other day, I caved in a ordered a pumpkin spice latte from my local coffee shop – and all of a sudden, it was fall. Fall, for me, is all about those cozy things like lattes and stews in the crockpot. Make your own lattes at home to celebrate September and the coming of fall:

Load Up the Crock Pot

Another sure sign that fall has begun in my home is that you smell the delicious aroma beef stew wafting from the crock pot. Create delicious meals that you can enjoy and freeze for lazy days with your crockpot in early fall.

Go to an Orchard

Head to your local apple orchard for some early fall fun. Once you collect a good batch of apples, try out some fun recipes at home, like slow cooker baked apples or easy apple crisp.

Have a “Last-Hurrah” Cookout

The weather is still really nice in most places in the month of September, so don’t pack up your patio furniture and grill just yet. Whether you invite a bunch of friends over or keep it to a small family gathering, have a fun, low-cost September cookout. Make use of seasonal produce, create a cheap meal that will yield you some leftovers and enjoy the fall weather.

Enjoy National Public Lands Day

Gain free entry into any of America’s National Parks on National Public Lands Day on September 28th.

Update Your Home for Fall

Go for a couple of walks around your neighborhood and collect nature items that can be brought inside. You can create all sorts of free decorations like leaf wreaths or gourds in a bowl.