I am truly an autumn kind of girl. I love pumpkin spice anything, sweaters, scarves, boots, leaves changing colors, going to the pumpkin patch, carving pumpkins, harvest parties, fall festivals, farmers market, going to the corn maze, all the events that my home town puts on and all other things that essentially make up autumn. As the season is starting to appear in full blast everywhere you look, I have a few tips and ideas on how to survive the cold, enjoy the colors, and thrive without gaining too much weight from all the Pumpkin Spice goodies, wine tasting and autumn based foods!
For those of you who do not know, I am a native to Walla Walla, Washington and I am slowly becoming a huge fan of the town; There are so many neat things to do if you have the time and energy, and in a few cases, a little bit of cash. Walla Walla is located in the Southeast corner of Washington and the closest "big" city is Spokane -- three hours away. So even though we are pretty well isolated, this little town is starting to become pretty famous. Check out how cool we are! Best Little City Ever. Without further adieu I give you my list of things to do this autumn in Walla Walla, Washington.
#1: Farmers Markets
If you have not been to the Farmer's Market downtown between Rose, Alder, and 4th Street. I highly recommend getting there before they close at the end of September. Their hours are 9 am-1 pm every Saturday from April-October. You can find more information on their webpage at: Downtown Farmer's Market.
However, I would highly recommend a few different places such as the bread and pastry stand, the fresh raw juices, the beautiful woman who sells homemade teas and essential oils, and if you are feeling festive, there is usually a really good Mexican food stand to grab some lunch at. I always leave with new tea, some fresh bread, and lots of fruits, herbs and vegetables.
#2: Food Truck Nights
Sticking to the theme of food in Autumn, the final food truck night in Walla Walla, held on Piper Street, the first Monday of every month during the season, will be October 3rd, so do not miss out on this!!! They have cheesecake on stick, voodoo fries (so much better without the bacon, I promise!!), falafels, gyros, BBQ, tacos, burritos, burgers, salmon tacos, usually a coffee stop or two, and of course the different breweries that are available to those 21 and over, I highly recommend getting a growler of the Burwood Root beer (non-alcoholic!); It's amazing.
#3: Oktoberfest
Speaking of the Burwood Brewing Company, for those of you who do drink, there is Oktoberfest happening September 17th at the Burwood Brewing Company. Although this event will be over with by the time you read this article, I will say that it will probably be a yearly event and maybe next autumn you can find some time to make it to the brewery. There is live music, food, entertainment and good company from 12 pm-8:30 pm, and they even have a bouncy house for kids that takes place until 4:30 pm.
#4: Oyster feeds.
I personally do not eat oyster, but I have heard that it is amazing and I have always wanted to go to an oyster feed or a clam feed, just to see what it is like to partake in the event! According to the Walla Walla Chamber of Commerce page, there will be an oyster feed in Walla Walla on October 1 from 11 am to 5 pm; It is called Autumn Oysters. For more information click here.
#5: Fall Furr Ball
More food ideas? How about a beautiful dinner event that would support a good cause? Fall Furr Ball! I love animals and I love good food. Why not dress up, have a little fun and spend money on saving our furry friends in Walla Walla.
#6: Fall Candy
The last food related item that I will mention is Bright's Candies. I love fall candy and I know that Bright's has started bringing in their fall collection of candy corn and pumpkins! I cannot wait to snack on some autumn candy and enjoy running through the falling leaves.
#7: The Changing Leaves
The leaves are changing color and falling! I love raking up piles of leaves and jumping in them! Just make sure that you watch where your animals go to the bathroom!
#8: Corn Maze (Haunted or not)
Did you know that Walla Walla has its own corn maze? This year the design is a dragon boat, at least that is what it looks like to me! Check Here for more information on tickets and hours. I happen to love the corn maze, especially on scare night! Get a group together, hang on to your best friend/partner/spouse and enjoy the night life of the maize!
#9: Walking around downtown
Walking around Bennington, going on art walks through downtown, meandering around Whitman Mission, Whitman Campus and Fort Walla Walla. Get out and enjoy the beauty of a small town that is slowly getting too big to be called a small town! My favorite walk is through downtown. There are so many boutiques, art galleries, bars, wineries, pastry shops, cafes and even a vegan venue that recently opened on Spokane Street Everything is so good!. There is more than you can handle in a weekend to walk past and witness.
#10: Visiting the pumpkin patch
Last but not least, the pumpkin patch at Klicker's! Go in and pick your own pumpkin from their many options! They also have fresh fruits, vegetables, amazing ice cream, and lots of other trinkets, nick knacks, and food items. Carve the coolest jack-o-lantern and display it through October! Showcase your art!
Although I could go on for ages about how much this little town has to offer as autumn begins, I do not want to give all our secrets away. I hope that every reader can find something that they would enjoy, I know that I will have a fun this autumn. Maybe you will see me in a coffee shop, wrapped in scarves and sweaters, pumpkin spice latte in hand, writing another article.